Military Repatriation Specialist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In an increasingly globalized world, the role of the Military Repatriation Specialist has become pivotal.

As nations navigate complex geopolitical landscapes, the demand for skilled professionals who can tactfully handle, administer, and execute the repatriation of military personnel grows.

But let’s delve into the specifics: What exactly does a Military Repatriation Specialist do?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker looking to understand the intricacies of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply curious about the responsibilities of a Military Repatriation Specialist,

You’ve landed in the right place.

Today, we present a comprehensive Military Repatriation Specialist job description template, crafted for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Military Repatriation Specialist Duties and Responsibilities

Military Repatriation Specialists manage the process of returning military personnel, both alive and deceased, to their home country.

These professionals must be compassionate and respectful, have excellent communication skills, and understand the complex logistics involved in international transportation.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Coordinating with various military and government agencies to arrange the repatriation of military personnel
• Communicating with the families of military personnel about the repatriation process and keeping them updated on the progress
• Managing logistics, including transport and customs paperwork, to ensure smooth and respectful repatriation
• Ensuring all repatriation actions adhere to international laws and military protocol
• Providing emotional support and resources to the families of deceased military personnel
• Working with medical and mortuary personnel to prepare deceased military personnel for transport
• Documenting all actions taken during the repatriation process for record-keeping and audit purposes
• Participating in or organizing ceremonies or memorials as part of the repatriation process

 

Military Repatriation Specialist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated and empathetic Military Repatriation Specialist to assist in the process of returning deceased military personnel to their home countries.

Responsibilities include coordinating with various entities, ensuring all necessary documentation is acquired, and working with grieving families to provide necessary support.

The ideal candidate will be knowledgeable about military procedures, international relations, and have excellent organizational and communication skills.

The role demands tact, professionalism, and the utmost respect for the duty you are entrusted with.

 

Responsibilities

• Coordinate with military and civil authorities for the repatriation of deceased military personnel
• Ensure all necessary documentation is completed and accurate
• Work closely with bereaved families, providing support and information
• Maintain strict confidentiality and respect for the deceased
• Communicate effectively with various international entities
• Coordinate transportation and logistics for repatriation
• Ensure all procedures adhere to international and military protocols

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience in a similar role or military service
• Knowledge of military protocols and procedures
• Excellent organizational and communication skills
• Ability to handle sensitive information with discretion
• Understanding of international relations and diplomacy
• Comfortable working with bereaved individuals and families
• Ability to travel internationally
• Associates or Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Military Repatriation Specialist
• Work Environment: Office setting with frequent travel. This role often involves working outside of normal business hours and on-call responsibilities.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Repatriation Coordinator or Department Head.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $75,000 minimum to $100,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. 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 resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Military Repatriation Specialist Do?

Military Repatriation Specialists work for the military and government agencies, focusing on bringing back military personnel who have been injured, killed, or captured in foreign countries back to their home country.

Their job often involves coordinating and liaising with various entities such as foreign governments, international organizations, and military departments to facilitate the smooth repatriation of military personnel.

They are responsible for understanding and abiding by international laws and treaties related to repatriation.

They also need to navigate complex political and cultural landscapes in the process.

Military Repatriation Specialists are also responsible for communicating with the family members of the military personnel, providing them with information and support during the process.

They often work closely with other departments such as logistics, legal, and healthcare to ensure the safe and dignified return of military personnel.

In some cases, they may also be involved in the repatriation of military equipment and assets from foreign countries.

These specialists need to have excellent communication and negotiation skills, a strong understanding of international laws, and the ability to work under high-pressure situations.

 

Military Repatriation Specialist Qualifications and Skills

A military repatriation specialist should have the skills and qualifications necessary to facilitate the respectful and dignified return of deceased military personnel to their home countries, such as:

• Excellent interpersonal skills to establish and maintain effective relationships with bereaved families, colleagues, and other stakeholders.
• Clear and concise communication skills, both verbal and written, to relay sensitive information to families and help coordinate repatriation efforts.
• Understanding of international laws, customs, and policies regarding military repatriation to ensure legal compliance and respect for differing cultural practices.
• Strong organizational skills to manage multiple repatriations simultaneously while ensuring each case receives the necessary attention and care.
• Experience or training in grief counseling or crisis management to provide empathetic support to grieving families.
• Detail-oriented with the ability to maintain accurate records of each repatriation case and track the progress of each repatriation process.
• Physical stamina to potentially assist with the transport and handling of remains as well as emotional resilience to cope with the nature of the role.
• Knowledge of military protocol and culture, understanding the importance of honor, respect, and dignity in the repatriation process.

 

Military Repatriation Specialist Experience Requirements

Military Repatriation Specialists typically need to have at least 2 to 3 years of experience in a related field such as military service, social work, or case management.

This helps in understanding the intricacies and sensitivities involved in the repatriation process.

Knowledge of military protocol, etiquette, and customs is often required, which can be gained through active military service or working closely with military personnel.

Experience in counseling, negotiation, or conflict resolution can be beneficial, as these specialists often deal with emotionally charged situations and need to effectively manage conflicts or disputes that may arise during the repatriation process.

Those aspiring to work as a Military Repatriation Specialist may gain relevant experience through internships or volunteering at veterans’ support organizations or military medical facilities.

For more advanced roles, employers may prefer candidates with more than 5 years of experience in military service, social work, counseling, or a related field.

Leadership experience and a track record in managing complex repatriation cases are also highly desirable.

A deep understanding of various military benefits and entitlements, as well as international repatriation laws, is often required, which usually comes with years of hands-on experience in the field.

 

Military Repatriation Specialist Education and Training Requirements

Military Repatriation Specialists typically have a bachelor’s degree in forensic science, anthropology, or a related field.

These programs provide the necessary knowledge and skills to handle, identify, and return the remains of deceased military personnel to their families.

Specialists in this field must have a deep understanding of forensic techniques, medical terminology, and human anatomy.

They may also need to be familiar with military protocols, laws, and customs.

In addition to formal education, practical experience is highly beneficial.

This could be gained through internships, volunteer work, or employment in related areas such as forensic labs, medical examiner offices, or military institutions.

Some positions may require a master’s degree, particularly for roles that involve detailed forensic analysis or research.

Graduate studies in forensics, anthropology, or a related field are typically preferred.

Certification from a recognized professional body, such as the American Board of Forensic Anthropology or the American Academy of Forensic Sciences, can enhance a candidate’s credentials.

Additionally, military repatriation specialists need to possess strong communication and interpersonal skills, as they often interact with grieving families.

Therefore, training in counselling or psychology can be beneficial.

Continuous professional development is essential in this role, as specialists need to stay updated with advancements in forensic science and international repatriation laws.

 

Military Repatriation Specialist Salary Expectations

A Military Repatriation Specialist can expect to earn an average salary of $65,800 (USD) per year.

However, the actual salary can fluctuate based on factors such as experience, the department of the military they work in, and the cost of living in their geographical location.

 

Military Repatriation Specialist Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Military Repatriation Specialist need?

Military Repatriation Specialists need strong communication and interpersonal skills, as they are often dealing with families during difficult times.

They should also have a thorough understanding of military procedures, customs, and traditions.

Good organizational and planning skills are essential, as they will be responsible for coordinating the return of military personnel.

 

Do Military Repatriation Specialists need a degree?

There’s no specific degree required for becoming a Military Repatriation Specialist.

However, having a degree in fields like social work, counseling, or psychology can be beneficial.

Many of these roles are filled by former military personnel who have a deep understanding of military operations and protocol.

It’s also crucial for them to be familiar with and respect various cultural and religious practices around death and burial.

 

What should you look for in a Military Repatriation Specialist resume?

In addition to any relevant educational qualifications, look for experience in fields such as military service, counseling, social work or crisis management.

They should have a demonstrated ability to handle sensitive situations with tact and diplomacy, as well as experience coordinating logistics or planning events.

Experience working with diverse cultural and religious groups is also a plus.

 

What qualities make a good Military Repatriation Specialist?

A good Military Repatriation Specialist is compassionate, understanding, and able to provide comfort and support to grieving families.

They must be extremely respectful and sensitive to the customs, traditions and wishes of the families they serve.

They should also have excellent problem-solving abilities, the capacity to work under pressure, and outstanding organizational skills to handle the complex logistics involved in repatriation.

 

What are the daily duties of a Military Repatriation Specialist?

The daily duties of a Military Repatriation Specialist vary based on the current need.

However, tasks often include coordinating with military and civilian agencies to arrange for the recovery and transportation of remains, communicating with family members to keep them informed and provide support, ensuring all documentation is completed accurately, and overseeing the final disposition of the remains according to the family’s wishes and cultural customs.

 

Conclusion

There you have it.

Today, we’ve demystified the role of a Military Repatriation Specialist.

And guess what?

It’s not just about returning military personnel.

It’s about facilitating the honorable return of our heroes, one repatriation at a time.

With our go-to Military Repatriation Specialist job description template and real-world examples, you’re fully equipped to step into this meaningful role.

But why limit yourself?

Delve deeper with our job description generator. It’s your key to perfectly crafted listings or polishing your resume to the nines.

Remember:

Every repatriation is a part of a larger story.

Let’s honor those stories. Together.

How to Become a Military Repatriation Specialist (Complete Guide)

The Dark Side of the Workforce: Jobs with Heartbreakingly Low Pay

Jobs That Push You to the Brink: The Most Stressful Careers Revealed!

Scheduling Freedom: The Most Flexible Jobs for Control Seekers

The Future of Work: Top In-Demand Careers to Watch