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Resume example

Soldier resume example

A soldier at the entry rank (militaire du rang) in France serves in the Army (armée de Terre), the Navy (Marine nationale), the Air and Space Force (armée de l'Air et de l'Espace) or another branch, on a renewable contract.

In the Army, most start in a combat unit such as infantry, armour, artillery or engineers, training in the field, maintaining weapons and vehicles, and preparing for deployments in France (such as the Sentinelle security operation) or abroad. Other soldiers work in support roles: drivers, mechanics, cooks, radio operators, logistics staff. In the Navy and Air Force, entry-level roles include deck work, maintenance and airbase security. Daily life follows military discipline, physical training and regular exercises, and missions can last several months away from home.

Resume example

[First name Last name]

Army Soldier (Infantry) | Operational Deployments, Team Leader Training

[City] · [phone] · [email]

Profile

Soldier with [x] years in an infantry regiment, including deployments in France and overseas. Team leader, trained in [weapon systems], military driving licences and first aid. Ready to take on more responsibility as a corporal or move into a specialist role.

Experience

Infantry Soldier, [Regiment], [Garrison City]

[month year] to present

  • Took part in field exercises and live firing training as part of a combat team
  • Deployed on Sentinelle operation in [city] to secure public sites
  • Maintained the team's weapons, vehicles and communications equipment
  • Completed team leader training and supervised [x] soldiers during exercises
  • Obtained C and CE military driving licences and drove logistics convoys

Resume headlines

  • Army Soldier (Infantry) | Operational Deployments, Team Leader Training
  • Former Soldier | Logistics, Driving (C/CE Licences), Security
  • Navy Sailor | Deck Operations, Fire Safety, Maintenance

Summaries for your profile

Entry level

Recent graduate applying to the armée de Terre as an engagé volontaire. Regular sports practice (running, swimming), first aid certificate and experience in team sports. I want to serve in a combat unit and progress through internal training.

Experienced

Soldier with [x] years in an infantry regiment, including deployments in France and overseas. Team leader, trained in [weapon systems], military driving licences and first aid. Ready to take on more responsibility as a corporal or move into a specialist role.

Career change

Former soldier returning to civilian life after [x] years of service. I bring discipline, teamwork and experience of logistics and security, plus C and CE licences obtained in the army. I am looking for a role in transport, security or facility management.

Tips

  • For civilian applications, replace terms such as « chef d'équipe » or « adjoint au chef de groupe » with what you actually managed: people, vehicles, stock.
  • List licences and certifications obtained in the army, many of which can be converted to civilian ones.
  • Mention deployments and responsibilities without classified details.
  • Highlight teamwork, discipline and reliability with concrete examples.
  • Use the army's career transition services (Défense Mobilité) for CV support.

Mistakes to avoid

  • Writing regiment names and course codes as if a civilian recruiter knew them.
  • Omitting licences and certifications.
  • Focusing only on combat without transferable skills.
  • Giving classified or sensitive details.

Working as a soldier in France

Entry-level soldiers in France (militaires du rang) sign renewable contracts with the Army, Navy or Air and Space Force after selection at a CIRFA recruitment centre: interview, psychotechnical tests, medical and physical checks. No diploma is required for many roles. French nationality is required, except in the Foreign Legion, which accepts foreign volunteers. Initial training is provided, and internal courses lead to rank progression and professional certifications. Search for « militaire du rang », « engagé volontaire de l'armée de Terre », « matelot de la Marine nationale », « aviateur » or « Légion étrangère ».

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Frequently asked questions

Can a foreigner join the French army?

Regular units of the armed forces require French nationality. The main exception is the Foreign Legion (Légion étrangère), which recruits men of all nationalities. Candidates apply in person at a Legion recruitment centre in France and go through selection tests before signing a contract.

How should a former soldier present military experience?

Translate missions into civilian skills: team leadership, logistics, security, driving, equipment maintenance. Keep your rank and unit but explain them briefly. Recruiters value reliability, discipline and the ability to work under pressure when they see concrete examples.

Are military licences valid in civilian life?

Many military driving licences can be converted into civilian licences, subject to conditions and deadlines. Some professional certifications, such as first aid or security, can also be recognised. Check with your unit or Défense Mobilité before leaving the service.

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