Infantry Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In a world constantly on the brink of conflict, the importance of infantry has never been more pronounced.

As global security needs evolve, so does the demand for disciplined and resilient individuals who can navigate, engage, and protect our physical frontlines.

But let’s cut through the fog of war: What’s truly expected from an infantry soldier?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A military recruiter looking to define the ideal candidate,
• Or simply curious about the demanding world of infantry,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable infantry job description template, designed for seamless posting on recruitment platforms or military career sites.

Let’s dive into it.

Infantry Duties and Responsibilities

Infantry is a military role that requires direct involvement in combat scenarios, physical fitness, and good teamwork skills.

The infantry is the main land combat force and the backbone of the Army.

They are responsible for defending our country against any threat by land, as well as capturing, destroying and repelling enemy ground forces.

Infantry duties and responsibilities include:

• Participating in various combat situations and missions
• Performing patrols and guard duties
• Operating, maintaining and cleaning weapons
• Using maps and other geographical data to navigate on foot
• Building and camouflaging infantry positions
• Conducting reconnaissance missions to identify enemy forces
• Working together in a team to carry out missions
• Engaging in direct ground combat
• Assisting in the mobilization of vehicles, troops and weaponry
• Assessing and treating minor injuries or calling in more serious medical attention when necessary
• Following orders from superiors
• Training in the use of various military equipment and tactics
• Performing military drills and exercises to maintain combat readiness

 

Infantry Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for dedicated and courageous individuals to join our ranks as Infantry Soldiers.

Your role will involve being on the front line of our defense operations, engaging in direct ground combat, patrolling assigned areas, and potentially operating in adverse conditions.

Ideal candidates possess physical strength, mental resilience, teamwork skills, and the ability to think quickly under high-stress situations.

The primary role of an infantry soldier is to defend the nation and its interests, employing combat skills in both offensive and defensive operations.

 

Responsibilities

• Engage in direct ground combat operations
• Perform security and patrol duties in assigned areas
• Operate and maintain weaponry, vehicles, and equipment
• Participate in or support combined arms operations
• Perform reconnaissance operations and gather intelligence
• Engage in physical training and maintain high level of physical fitness
• Adhere to the chain of command and carry out orders promptly and accurately
• Participate in training exercises to enhance combat readiness

 

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED
• Completion of basic combat training and advanced individual training
• Excellent physical condition and stamina
• Proficiency in operating military weaponry and equipment
• Strong teamwork and communication skills
• Ability to remain calm and composed in high-stress scenarios
• Willingness to risk life or limb in defense of the nation

 

Benefits

• Competitive salary and allowances
• Comprehensive health insurance
• Dental and vision insurance
• Pension plan
• Opportunities for career progression and professional development
• Travel opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Infantry Soldier
• Work Environment: Varies depending on deployment. Could include extreme weather conditions and potentially hostile environments.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Platoon Sergeant or Company Commander.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $20,170 minimum to $38,354 maximum
• Location: Various Locations (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity in our ranks. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your application through the official military recruitment portal [link].

 

What Does an Infantry Do?

Infantry are the foot soldiers in an army who are primarily responsible for engaging in direct combat with the enemy.

They participate in various military operations and activities, which may include patrolling territories, securing strategic locations, and fighting on the frontlines during times of war.

They are trained to use a variety of weapons and military equipment.

Infantry are also responsible for reconnaissance missions, where they gather information about the enemy’s numbers, positions, or activities.

They may also be tasked with defensive operations, where they hold and protect certain positions from enemy forces.

In addition to combat duties, infantry are often involved in peacekeeping operations, disaster relief missions, and other humanitarian efforts.

They are trained to operate under different weather conditions and terrains, and often must endure physically demanding and psychologically challenging situations.

The role of the infantry can also involve liaising with other military units and local populations, particularly during foreign deployments.

As such, they may require skills in negotiation, cultural understanding, and sometimes language translation.

Infantry are typically led by officers who provide tactical guidance and strategic planning, but also must demonstrate leadership, courage, and resilience themselves, particularly in the heat of combat.

Ultimately, the mission of the infantry is to neutralize threats and secure objectives, thereby ensuring the safety and security of their nation.

 

Infantry Qualifications and Skills

Individuals serving in the Infantry require a unique set of skills and qualifications, including:

• Physical fitness and endurance to carry out demanding tasks, operate equipment, and navigate diverse terrains.
• Strategic thinking and problem-solving skills to develop plans, assess situations, and make quick decisions in high-pressure environments.
• Teamwork and leadership abilities to effectively work within a unit, often in dangerous and challenging conditions.
• Resilience and mental toughness to handle the physical and emotional demands of the role, including long deployments and potential combat situations.
• Discipline and respect for authority, following orders promptly and precisely, and adhering to military protocols and procedures.
• Proficiency in using and maintaining a range of military equipment and weaponry, and knowledge of infantry tactics and strategies.
• Communication skills to effectively convey information and instructions, often under stressful conditions, and the ability to receive and interpret complex orders.
• First-aid and survival skills to provide immediate medical attention and to survive in adverse conditions if necessary.
• Adaptability to respond to unexpected situations or changes in the operational environment.

 

Infantry Experience Requirements

For infantry roles, initial experience usually comes from a period of basic training provided by the military service, where trainees learn the basics of being a soldier, including physical fitness, weapon handling, and survival techniques.

This is usually followed by advanced infantry training specific to the role they will be assuming in the infantry.

Entry-level infantry personnel, or privates, typically have no prior experience required beyond the successful completion of their training.

They continue to gain experience on-the-job through regular drills, exercises, and potentially active duty assignments.

Those seeking a non-commissioned officer role, such as a Sergeant, typically have several years of experience in the infantry, demonstrating proficiency in leadership and the necessary skills to lead a small unit.

They also usually complete leadership development courses offered by the military.

Individuals aiming for higher-ranking officer positions, such as Lieutenant or Captain, typically have significant experience in the infantry, often combined with a bachelor’s degree from a military academy or university ROTC program.

These roles require outstanding leadership skills, strategic thinking, and a deep understanding of military operations and tactics.

Some infantry roles may also require specialized training or experience.

For example, an Infantry Sniper may require advanced marksmanship training, while a Mortarman would require specialized training in mortars.

 

Infantry Education and Training Requirements

Infantry roles usually require a high school diploma or equivalent as a minimum education requirement.

Most of the training for infantry roles is provided by the military.

This includes Basic Combat Training (BCT), where recruits learn basic tactical and survival skills along with how to shoot, repel, and navigate terrain.

This is followed by Advanced Individual Training (AIT), which provides a more specific focus on the duties, roles, and responsibilities of an infantryman.

Some military units may also offer additional specialized training courses, such as airborne school or sniper school, based on the individual soldier’s role in the unit.

After initial training, infantry soldiers are expected to maintain their physical fitness and combat readiness, and they may have opportunities to pursue further education and training throughout their military careers.

Leadership roles within the infantry usually require further education and training, and some soldiers may choose to pursue a bachelor’s or master’s degree in fields such as military science or strategic studies.

As with all military personnel, infantry soldiers must meet strict physical fitness and health requirements, and they must also be able to obtain a security clearance.

 

Infantry Salary Expectations

An Infantry soldier in the U.S. military earns an average salary of $33,889 (USD) per year.

However, the actual earnings can greatly vary based on factors such as rank, years of service, location, and bonuses for special skills or deployments.

Additional benefits such as housing, healthcare, and retirement plans also contribute to the overall compensation package.

 

Infantry Job Description FAQs

What are the physical requirements for an infantry role?

The physical requirements for an infantry role can be quite demanding.

This includes the ability to carry heavy loads, operate in challenging terrains and conditions, and maintain a high level of physical fitness.

Rigorous physical training is a regular part of the job, and regular fitness tests are conducted to ensure infantrymen are physically capable of performing their duties.

 

What skills does an infantryman need?

Infantrymen need to have excellent teamworking skills as they often operate in small units where teamwork is crucial for success.

They also require good communication skills, physical fitness, discipline, and the ability to follow orders under pressure.

Practical skills such as weapon handling, navigation, first aid, and survival skills are also necessary.

 

What kind of training does an infantryman undergo?

An infantryman undergoes extensive military training, which often begins with Basic Combat Training or boot camp, where they learn military customs, practices, and physical fitness.

This is followed by Advanced Individual Training, where they receive specialized instruction in various areas such as weapons, combat tactics, and survival techniques.

 

What qualities make a good infantryman?

A good infantryman is disciplined, resilient, and physically and mentally tough.

They are willing to follow orders and work as part of a team.

Good infantrymen also have a high level of situational awareness and can make rapid decisions in high-stress situations.

Lastly, they are adaptable and can adjust to changing circumstances and environments.

 

Is prior military experience required for an infantry role?

While previous military experience can be beneficial, it is not a requirement for an infantry role.

Individuals are trained thoroughly upon joining the infantry, regardless of their prior experience or knowledge.

However, a certain level of physical fitness and mental toughness is required.

 

Conclusion

So, there you have it.

Today, we’ve dug into the trenches to unveil the true nature of being an infantry soldier.

And guess what?

It’s not just about taking orders.

It’s about safeguarding our nation, one mission at a time.

With our comprehensive infantry job description template and real-world examples, you’re prepared to step forward.

But why stop there?

March ahead with our job description generator. It’s your strategic tool for creating detailed job listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every mission is a part of a larger campaign.

Let’s secure that future. Together.

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