Interesting career opportunities exist for enlisted Airmen who are ready for new challenges and have a desire to take their careers in a whole new direction.

Airmen who want to stay in their career field but want to try something outside their comfort zone can apply for various joint, Department of Defense and special duty opportunities that are advertised on the Equal Plus listing.

"There are many great opportunities with unique and rewarding work environments where Airmen will gain a broader perspective of how the Air Force fits into the big picture," said Tech. Sgt. Jessica Cobb, assigned to the Air Force Personnel Center Mission Support/Joint Department Assignments branch. "There are usually 60 or 70 jobs listed and they vary by career field, experience levels and rank, so Equal Plus may have something right up your alley."

The list is updated daily with such positions as defense awards manager, engineering maintenance technician, administrative assistant to the deputy secretary of defense, executive support supervisor and more.

"Special duty positions run the gamut from instructor to recruiter, but we're really focused on highlighting the DOD assignments," Cobb said. "Most of those positions are in D.C., but the Office of the Secretary of Defense has some overseas positions, too, so that's a possibility."

Finding the perfect position starts with a visit to the Air Force secure site, accessible on the Air Force Portal. From there, go to the Assignment Management System and select the Equal Plus link.

"It's pretty simple, and most Airmen are already familiar with AMS. Even if you're not, though, you just follow the instructions on the site and use the quick links to navigate," said Cobb.

Airmen selected for a DOD or joint assignment can expect to significantly broaden their awareness and abilities, she explained.

"The Air Force is only one piece of a much larger picture," she said. "Having the opportunity to use your skills at the DOD level will improve your understanding of the Air Force role and how the services work with many other agencies to achieve national security goals."

For more information about assignments and other personnel issues, visit the Air Force Personnel Services website at https://gum-crm.csd.disa.mil.