Occupational Analysis Process
Study Cycle
Occupational Analysis conducts occupational studies on enlisted USAF specialties on a periodic basis, typically a three- to four-year cycle, and upon request if out of cycle.
Special Studies
Special studies are also conducted upon request:
- Officer USAF specialties
- Civilian occupational series
Survey Development
Career Field Leader Role
Career field leaders and subject matter experts are key to the process in developing the content of occupational survey instruments.
Survey Administration
Occupational surveys are administered to all eligible personnel in the targeted specialty or civilian occupational series through direct e-mail (AFNet).
Occupational Analysis Data
Occupational survey results are provided in occupational analysis reports that include information on the duties and responsibilities performed by career field members in the form of:
- Task statements
- Duty areas
…throughout each stage of their career.
How Decision-Makers Use the Data
Training Decisions Driven by Data
Decision-makers associated with training programs use the data obtained to:
- Establish, validate, adjust, or maintain training relative to USAF specialties and skill-levels
- Support decisions on what type of training is needed, who needs the training, and to what depth the training should be taught
Member Role and Impact
Critical Member Participation
All career field members have pivotal roles with the constructive outcomes of occupational studies. Airmen of a career field being surveyed must devote the necessary time and commitment in completing their assigned occupational surveys.
What Survey Data Becomes
The data collected from each survey participant translates into:
- Operationally relevant training programs for their USAF specialty
- Fair and reliable promotion tests for their career field under the Weighted Airman Promotion System
External Evaluation Mechanism
WAPS-Linked
Occupational analysis serves as an external evaluation mechanism for USAF education and training programs. Occupational analysis data is used during specialty training requirements team sessions and utilization and training workshops to:
- Evaluate training requirements for relevancy and efficacy
- Determine if modifications are warranted to:
- Career Field Education and Training Plans
- Career Development Course content
- USAF specialty descriptions of duties, responsibilities, and qualifications
Resource Reference
To view career field information, visit the Occupational Analysis website (https://usaf.dps.mil/sites/aetc-hq/A9/SAS/OA/).
The website also includes:
- Job satisfaction information
- Work-life balance data
- Rationale behind why Airmen are reenlisting or separating from the USAF