I applied at a local recruiting station. Because employment in the military touched upon national security concerns, the process was very strict; I had to provide my birth certificate and submit to a background check even though I was seeking a civilian position. The recruiter asked me the "classic" questions, such as why I was interested in the U.S. Army and where I would see myself in the next five years. They were a little challenging because the Army was very different than the other places that I had applied to. The interview ended early when the recruiter told me the Army would not be moving forward with my application due to my autism. I understand this was for national security reasons as well as my own protection, but it was still a little saddening to have to miss out on such a great opportunity because of something that was outside my control. Other than that, the recruiter was really nice about it.

Must have a technical background usually with a B.S. in a STEM field. After completing company command, you can apply to become an operations research and systems analyst. If selected, you’ll attend a course to reinforce the mathematical and analytic skills needed to be successful as an ORSA. Once the course is complete, you’ll interview for assignments across the army. ORSAs are assigned starting at the division level, but will have larger pools of researchers in places like DC, Fort Leavenworth, and other research hubs.