What is Othello's job?

Othello’s job is to serve as a general in the Venetian army. He is a respected military commander working for the state of Venice. Early in the play, the Duke sends him to Cyprus to lead the defense against a Turkish attack, which shows how much Venice depends on his military skill. Other soldiers serve under him: Iago is his standard-bearer, and Othello promotes Cassio to lieutenant.

Othello’s public honor and authority come largely from his military success. He begins the play as a powerful and respected general, even though he is also treated as an outsider because he is a Moor. As the tragedy unfolds, his loss of emotional control and trust in Iago damages the very reputation his military career had built.