A Marine Corps LAV Crewman (MOS 0313) deals with Light Armored Reconnaissance, also known as LAR.
LAR units are assigned to provide surveillance ahead of infantry landings.
The Marine Corps Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) does feature some danger, as light armored vehicles are crafty and mobile, yet susceptible to enemy attacks.
Learn more about what it takes to become a Marine Corps LAV Crewman (MOS 0313).
Education, Qualifications, and Training
The U.S. Marines have relied on light armored vehicles and weapons since 1983.
LAV Crewmen have been used heavily in the conflicts in the Gulf War and in Afghanistan and Iraq because of their ability to provide extremely mobile surveillance.
Marine Corps LAV Crewman (MOS 0313) operate out of old armored LAV units and need to receive training on them before entering the field.
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Education
The Marine Corps will only accept new enlistees with a high school diploma or GED.
There are other basic requirements for joining the Marine Corps, including physical fitness standards and grooming standards.
All new Marine Corps recruits are required to take the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB).
The ASVAB is a series of tests used by the U.S. Armed Forces to determine which MOS is best suited to your education and skills.
In order to qualify for MOS 0313 Marine Corps LAV Crewman, you must score General Technical (GT): 90 or higher on the ASVAB.
Qualifications
Despite the title, Marine Corps LAV Crewman (MOS 0313) is open to both male and female soldiers.
All MOS 0313 must have normal color vision at a minimum acuity of 20/200 that is correctable to 20/20.
LAV Crewman must have WS-B water survival qualification.
They must also possess the psychological and physiological qualifications
required for licensing as an Ordnance Vehicle operator.
There is also a requirement to meet the psychological and physiological demands required for licensing as a government motor vehicle operator.
Therefore, LAV Crewman must have a driving record that qualifies for an SF-46 military driver’s license.
Training
MOS 0313 LAV Crewman may also be a lateral move for Marines who transfer to the MOS after already being part of the military.
Regardless if you are a new recruit or an existing Marine, you must complete Infantry Training Battalion (ITB) if you are not already qualified as an infantry MOS.
New recruits must also complete Marine Corps boot camp (13 weeks) prior to signing up for ITB.
Prospective LAV Crewman must complete training for rifleman (MOS 0311), as well.
There is also a Marine Corps requirement to complete the LAV Crewman Course for assignment.
They also must attain WS-I water survival intermediate qualification before completing the LAV course.
The LAV Crewman Course is offered at Camp Pendleton in California.
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What does a Marine Corps LAV Crewman Do?
The Light Armored Reconnaissance (LAR) Marine is part of the Infantry.
Marine Corps LAV Crewmen (MOS 0313) are most skilled in Armored Reconnaissance.
A LAV Crewman not only possesses basic infantry skills but also has specialized skills in operating older light armored vehicles as well as surveillance equipment.
Therefore, LAV Crewmen support the Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF) during reconnaissance operations.
The ultimate objective is to gather critical information on the enemy and terrain.
Marine Corps Light Armored Vehicles (LAVs)
Light Armored Vehicles (LAVs) are still used by the Marine Corps for reconnaissance work despite being more than 40 years old.
The reliable light armored vehicle is exposed to enemy attacks yet is relied upon because of its crafty mobility.
The eight-wheeled amphibious vehicle can carry communications equipment as well as weapons.
Your duty as a LAV Crewman is to operate and maintain LAVs and the built-in weapons systems.
The gunnery on a LAV includes 24mm Chain Guns, Coaxial and Pintle-Mounted 7.62mm Machine Guns, and LAV-25 Thermal Optics.
Marine Expeditionary Units (MEU) – LAV Crews
LAV Crewmen (MOS 0313) are part of a Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU).
The responsibility of MEU is to “conduct security, recon, and screening missions for a larger force along with some independent operations,” according to the Marine Corps.
LAV Crewmen receive advanced training as not only vehicle operators but also as LAV-25 Gunners and LAR Master Gunners.
The crew is typically three members:
- LAV Driver: The driver is responsible for maintaining the engine and hull components along with operating the LAV.
- LAV Gunner: The gunner is trained to use powerful weapons like the LAV-25. They also maintain the turret and components.
- Commander of LAV: The commander supervises all maintenance operations and leads the team.
Related Article: Marine Corps Age Limits
What does a Marine Corps LAV Crewman make?
Marine Corps LAV Crewman (MOS 0313) are not paid based on their Military Occupational Specialty.
The Marines pay soldiers based on rank and years of service.
| Insignia | Pay Grade | Rank | Abbreviation | 2023 Minimum Monthly Pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| E-1 +4 months | Private | Pvt | $1,917.60 | |
 | E-2 | Private First Class | PFC | $2,149.20 |
 | E-3 | Lance Corporal | LCpl | $2,259.90 |
 | E-4 | Corporal | Cpl | $2,503.50 |
 | E-5 | Sergeant | Sgt | $2,730.30 |
 | E-6 | Staff Sergeant | SSgt | $2,980.50 |
 | E-7 | Gunnery Sergeant | GySgt | $3,3445.80 |
 | E-8 | Master Sergeant | MSgt | $4,957.20 |
 | E-8 | First Sergeant | 1stSgt | $4,957.20 |
 | E-9 | Master Gunnery Sergeant | MGySgt | $6,055.50 |
 | E-9 | Sergeant Major | SgtMaj | $6,055.50 |
 | E-9 | Sergeant Major Of The Marine Corps | SgtMaj | $6,055.50 |
Benefits
The U.S. Marine Corps provides a complete benefits package in addition to a monthly base salary:
- Medical Insurance
- Vacation Time
- Special Pay
- Retirement
- Affordable Life Insurance
- Housing: Allowances for living expenses, utilities, and maintenance.
- Food: Allowance for the on-base dining hall and access to tax-free department and grocery stores.
- Education: Marines can earn full tuition, merit-based scholarships, allowances for books and fees, plus an annual stipend for living expenses.
Job Reviews
It is hard to find job reviews specific to the role of a Marine Corps LAV Crewman (MOS 0313) on job sites.
However, there are a variety of reviews related to the Marine Corps Infantry, which MOS 0313 is a part of.
There are pros and cons to working Infantry in the Marine Corps, just like any MOS.
Civilian Job Opportunities
The job duties you perform as a Marine Corps LAV Crewman (MOS 0313) are specific to the military.
Regardless, LAV Crewman can find a comfortable living in the civilian world working just about any job.
Serving the Marine Corps is a challenging yet rewarding opportunity that will prepare you for a number of careers.
Most employers find the experience, discipline, and leadership that veterans bring to the table a great asset to their workforce.
Related Article: Marine Corps Height And Weight Standards
Summary
Marine Corps LAV Crewmen (MOS 0313) are part of the infantry division.
They operate light armored vehicles (LAVs) or man gunner positions while the team gathers intelligence on the enemy.
Resources:
- USMC Cryptologic Language Analyst (MOS 2641): 2023 Career Details - March 20, 2022
- 10 Best Marine Corps Jobs For Civilian Life In 2023 - March 20, 2022
- Marine Corps Boot Camp Schedule - November 20, 2020
General FAQ
What do LAV crewman do?
A Marine Corp LAV Crewman (MOS 0313) operates light Armored Reconnaissance Vehicles to provide surveillance ahead of infantry landings.
What ASVAB score do I need to qualify as Marine Corps LAV crewman?
To qualify for Marine Corps MOS 0313, you need a minimum score of 90 on the General Technical portion of the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery.
How do I qualify as a Marine Corps LAV crewman?
Both male and female soldiers can become LAV crewmen by meeting fitness requirements, including swimming proficiency tests, as well as minimum vision requirements, and a clean driving record.
How much does a Marine Corp MOS 0313 make?
The Marine Corps pays personnel according to their rank and time in service. A new recruit with more than four months but less than two years in service receives $1,917 base pay per month.
What is a Light Armored Vehicle (LAV)?
Light Armored Vehicles are eight-wheeled amphibious vehicles that carry weapons and communications equipment. In service for over 40 years, the Corps will be replacing LAVs with the ARVs (Armored Reconnaissance Vehicles) in the next 10 years.
