This paper presents data describing large differences between the reading difficulty levels of printed materials used in certain military occupational specialties (MOSs) and the relatively lower reading ability levels of men assigned to these MOSs. Initial data explore the relationship between reading ability and utilization of printed materials on the job. It is suggested that the low on the job use of printed materials by these men is related to the difficulty of the reading tasks required of the reader. Finally, an approach is outlined for identifying on the job reading tasks and studying their reading skill requirements. Included are four references and four tables and figures. (Author/LY)