Platoon Leader Career Information

A platoon leader is an officer in command of a platoon, usually a junior officer such as a first or second lieutenant. Your responsibilities are successfully completing the platoon’s mission, managing your soldiers, and overseeing the daily tasks they need to accomplish.

As a platoon leader, you create a plan for carrying out orders, assign tasks to other platoon sergeants and squad leaders, and keep watch that your platoon has completed all tasks. The jobs assigned by your higher official can vary from securing the ground on a battlefield to preparing and organizing a parade.

As a platoon leader, you’re responsible for the preparedness of your soldiers for military operations. You inspect uniforms, organize community service events, and lead physical exercises and activities. You must be able to train your soldiers for drills and combat. The ability to adapt to different situations, a good command over your language, and strong leadership and motivational skills are essential.

As for educational qualifications, a bachelor’s degree is mandatory for entry into a platoon. The Platoon Leaders Class (PLC) program is a way to gain experience and serve as a platoon leader.