Marine Corps Substance Abuse Control Specialists (MOS 0149) have an important responsibility within the military.
Substance Abuse Control Specialists (SACO) introduce substance abuse education and prevention to soldiers.
Learn more about MOS 0149 including training and job duties by reading the full article.
Education, Qualifications, and Training
An Substance Abuse Control Specialist (MOS 0149) is trained by the U.S. Marines to provide substance abuse counseling and treatment.
The military will train you the skills you need to attain, however, a previous background in substance abuse or counseling is helpful.
Related Article: Marine Corps Height And Weight Standards
Education
All Marines are required to complete high school with a diploma or GED equivalent.
New Marines must also complete the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB).
In order to get considered for Marine Corps SACO (MOS 0149) you must score Clerical (CL): 100 or higher on the ASVAB.
Qualifications
Marines that are interested in MOS 0149 must complete the Unit Substance Abuse Program Management Course.
While not mandatory having taken higher learning courses in substance abuse and/or counseling is helpful.
Training
Marines are required to complete boot camp, regardless of Military Occupational Specialty (MOS).
Boot camp lasts 13 weeks for new Marines before you begin to receive training for your MOS.
Prospective Marine Corps Substance Abuse Control Specialists (MOS 0149) will need to complete the Unit Substance Abuse Program Management Course.
The remainder of MOS training will involve classroom learning and field work to prepare for 0149 MOS.
What does an Marines Substance Abuse Control Specialist (SACO) Do?
An Marine Corps Substance Abuse Control Specialist (MOS 0149) is trained to deal with substance abuse within the military.
Marine SACO Specialists provide counseling and other education to soldiers struggling with substance abuse.
There are also lessons and training SACO Specialists provide to Marines to teach about preventive measures to avoid substance abuse.
Substance Abuse Control Specialists (MOS 0149) will also perform urinalysis screenings.
The unit provides the Marines Corps with basic individual Manpower PME and briefings.
Related Article – Marine Corps MOS List + ASVAB Scores: Details on all 123 Jobs
What does an Marines Substance Abuse Control Specialist (SACO) make?
Marines are paid based on rank and years of service.
Therefore, your monthly salary as a Marine Corps Substance Abuse Control Specialist (MOS 0149) is dictated by the following chart for non-officer ranks:
| 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 benefits package of the U.S. Marines is outstanding, it includes:
- Medical Insurance
- Retirement
- Vacation Time
- Special Pay
- Affordable Life Insurance
- Education: Marines can earn full-tuition, merit-based scholarships, allowances for books and fees, plus annual stipend for living expenses.
- 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.
Job Reviews
It is hard to find job reviews specific to Marine Corps Substance Abuse Control Specialist (MOS 0149).
However, you can find general reviews about what it is like to serve the Marine Corps on job sites like Indeed.com.
Related Article – Marine Corps Grooming Standards: Hair, Beard, And Nail Regulations
Civilian Job Opportunities
Marine Corps Substance Abuse Control Specialists have an opportunity to work in the private sector as a counselor or therapist.
After leaving the military there is plenty of social work needed to combat the massive problem of substance abuse in the United States.
Summary
Serving the Marine Corps as an Substance Abuse Control Specialist (MOS 0149) is a fulfilling military career.
It allows you to help others in the military struggling with substance abuse.
Resources:
- Marine Ranks and Basic Pay for 2023 - March 20, 2022
- USMC Tattoo Policy Changes For 2023 (15 Things To Know) - March 20, 2022
- Marine FAST Teams: 5 Things You Need to Know - October 31, 2021
