Department of the Army Civilian

Definition/Scope: Department of the Army Civilians work in a wide range of occupations, including scientist, engineer, administrator, physician, information technologist, childcare director, program analyst, recreation specialist, customer service representative, and many more. Civilians work at various levels within the organization, including crafts, trades, clerical, technical, administrative, professional, supervisory, and executive. Career advancement generally follows a path from entry level, through the intermediate level, to managerial or executive positions. Individual progression depends on a variety of factors including demonstrated performance, assignments completed, formal education, functional and geographical mobility, and completion of training programs. Civilians have been an integral part of the U.S. Army since the Revolutionary War. The Board of War and Ordnance was established in 1776 with responsibility to equip and dispatch troops; account for arms, ammunition and equipment; maintain personnel records; and disburse funds. The board was made up of five members of the Continental Congress, clerks and a paid secretary – Richard Peters, the first Army civilian. Civilians were hired by the Continental Army for driving, crafts, carpentry and laborer jobs. Throughout our nation's history, civilians have played a vital role in supporting Soldiers. Army civilians have skills that are not readily available in the military, but crucial to support military operations. The Army integrates the talents and skills of its military and civilian members to form a Total Army.

Acronym:

DAC

Broader Terms:

Department of the Army

Related Terms:

Army Civilian Corps
DA civilians