An analysis of the factors affecting the career orientation of junior URL naval officers

Abstract

This thesis constructs and tests a model of the career orientation of junior unrestricted line naval officers. Specifically, the influence of biodemographic characteristics, length of service, family financial situation, intrinsic and extrinsic job satisfaction, and perception of external job opportunities are investigated. Results indicate that variables which assess the individual's total amount of sea duty, probability of finding a good civilian job, and satisfaction with the extrinsic aspects of the military job are most important in predicting the career orientation of junior naval officers with between eighteen months and seven-and-one-half years of active service. Knowledge of the variables in the model, and their relative influence on the career intentions of junior naval officers can provide manpower planners with information valuable for managing the retention of these officers.