Today, we’re going to take a few minutes and talk about the Army 92L MOS, the Petroleum Laboratory Specialist. I think this is a great MOS for anyone looking for a career in the Army, or to learn new skills that they could use after the Army. To keep things simple, the 92L tests fuels, oils and lubricants. They make sure the fuels are safe to use in the Army equipment.
92L Duties, Responsibilities and Job Description
Here is a basic list of duties and responsibilities you will have when you serve in this MOS
- Conduct laboratory tests on petroleum products used by the Army
- Perform physical and chemical tests on all types of fuels and lubricants
- Set up temporary or mobile laboratories to test oils, fuels, and greases in the field
- Gather, collect and test samples
- Fill out reports and charts
- Identify sources of deterioration and contamination
- Complete quality surveillance reports
- Inspect fire and safety equipment
- Perform maintenance on laboratory equipment
- Supervise other Soldiers as required
- Advise commanders and staff on fuel related issues
- Report findings in accordance with American Society for Testing and Materials testing methods
- Maintain fire prevention and safety control procedures
Pre-requisites for the 92L MOS
Soldiers wanting to serve in this MOS must score a 91 or higher on the Skilled Technician portion of the ASVAB test. No security clearance is required for this MOS. Normal color vision is required. Soldiers must be able to list heavy objects to serve in this MOS. The PULHES requirement is 211221. You do not need to be a U.S. citizen to serve in this MOS.
92L AIT at Fort Lee
The 92L Advanced Individual Training is 10 weeks long and is currently located at Fort Lee, Virginia. During AIT you will receive training on how to test fuels, how to use a centrifuge, a spectrometer and other types of testing equipment. You will also learn about the American Society for Testing and Materials testing methods. You will also receive training on fire prevention, quality control, how to fill out reports, and on Army procedures and policies concerning fuel testing.
Important Job Skills to Succeed in this MOS
If you want to serve in this MOS, here are a few job skills that would really be beneficial:
- Training in chemistry
- Love of math
- Ability to focus
- Methodical, thorough and analytics
- Enjoy technical hands on work
- Attention to detail
- Ability to follow directions
Career Opportunities as a 92L
Serving as a 92L offers plenty of career opportunities for upward mobility. You could stay in the enlisted ranks and work your way up to E-9. There is also an opportunity to become a Warrant Officer or become a commissioned officer. You could also serve as a recruiter, instructor, or even a Drill Sergeant. Once you leave the Army, you could secure a job working for a number of government agencies or in the private sector.
Final Thoughts
The bottom line is that the 92L MOS, the Petroleum Laboratory Specialist, is the perfect MOS for the right person. If you enjoy working with fuel and are looking for a great career inside and outside of the Army, this MOS might just be the perfect fit for you. Talk to your local recruiter to learn more.
On a side note, if you’ve spent any time as a 92L, I would love to hear from you. Please leave a comment below to tell us about your experience. What did you like and dislike about the MOS? What did you do on a daily basis? What tips can you recommend for recruits considering this MOS as their primary choice?
Chuck Holmes
Former Army Major (resigned)
Publisher, Part-Time-Commander.com
Email: mrchuckholmes@gmail.com
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My DD214 shows me attending the Petroleum Lab Specialist training at Ft. Lee in 1968. However, it shows MOS 92C2H.
I was sent to Vietnam, but never worked in my MOS. When. I came home, it was back to Ft Lee as an instructor for Pet. Lab Specialist. Since I had never worked in this MOS, I had to take the 10 week course again before I could teach. MOS 92C2H appears to no longer exist.
Shipping out in few months and just stumbled in here, thanks for the insight……..
Wow, what a great MOS for people with an interest in science. It seems like there would be tons of opportunities for someone with these skills in the civilian world. Fort Lee in Virginia isn’t a bad place to spend 10 weeks either, although that shouldn’t influence anyone’s decision. Just think of how valuable these skills are to the military as well as civilians.