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2A695 Career Guide

Air Force

2A695: Aircraft Hydraulic Systems Technician

Career transition guide for Air Force Aircraft Hydraulic Systems Technician (2A695)

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Civilian Career Pathways

Top civilian roles for 2A695 veterans, with average salary and market demand data.

Aircraft Mechanic/Avionics Technician

$75K
High matchHigh demand

Hydraulic Technician

$68K
High matchGrowing demand

Aerospace Engineering Technician

$72K
Good matchStable demand

Skills to develop:

CAD softwareFEA analysis

Wind Turbine Technician

$62K
Moderate matchVery high demand

Skills to develop:

Climbing certificationElectrical safety trainingSpecific wind turbine maintenance training

Mechanical Engineer

$95K
Moderate matchStable demand

Skills to develop:

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical EngineeringProfessional Engineering (PE) license

Salary estimates from VWC career data

Hidden Strengths

Cognitive skills your 2A695 training built — and where they transfer.

System Modeling

As a 2A695, you routinely use schematics and technical orders to understand the intricate relationships between hydraulic, pneumatic, and electrical systems within aircraft. You create mental models to predict how changes in one component will affect the entire system.

This ability to visualize and understand complex systems translates directly into roles where you need to design, analyze, or troubleshoot interconnected processes or infrastructures.

Procedural Compliance

Your work demands strict adherence to technical orders, safety regulations, and maintenance procedures. You understand the importance of following established protocols to ensure the safe and effective operation of aircraft systems.

This rigorous training in procedural compliance is highly valued in industries where safety, quality control, and regulatory adherence are paramount.

Degraded-Mode Operations

You're skilled at troubleshooting and repairing aircraft systems even when facing incomplete information or malfunctioning equipment. You know how to work through problems systematically, even when resources are limited.

Your experience in maintaining functionality during less-than-ideal conditions makes you adept at problem-solving and finding creative solutions in challenging environments.

Situational Awareness

Maintaining aircraft hydraulic systems requires constant vigilance and awareness of your surroundings. You must anticipate potential problems, monitor system performance, and respond quickly to unexpected issues.

This keen awareness translates into an ability to quickly assess situations, identify potential risks, and make informed decisions under pressure.

Non-Obvious Career Matches

Industrial Machinery Mechanic

SOC 49-9041

You've been working on intricate aircraft hydraulic systems, and this role is a natural fit. Your expertise in troubleshooting, repairing, and maintaining complex mechanical systems will allow you to easily adapt to maintaining industrial machinery. Plus, your experience with technical documentation and safety procedures is directly applicable.

Elevator and Escalator Installer and Repairer

SOC 47-4021

You've been working with hydraulic and electrical systems, so you already have a head start in this field. You understand the importance of safety and precision in maintaining critical systems and will excel at diagnosing malfunctions and ensuring these vertical transportation systems operate smoothly and safely.

Wind Turbine Technician

SOC 49-9099

You've been trained to work on complex mechanical systems, and wind turbines are no different. You're already familiar with hydraulic systems, electrical components, and troubleshooting, which are all crucial skills for keeping these renewable energy sources running efficiently. Your ability to work at heights and in challenging conditions is also a bonus!

Training & Education Equivalencies

Aircraft Hydraulic Systems Maintenance Course, Sheppard AFB, TX

560 training hours14 weeksUp to 9 semester hours recommended

Topics Covered

  • Hydraulic and Pneumatic Principles
  • Aircraft Hydraulic Systems Troubleshooting
  • Landing Gear and Braking Systems Maintenance
  • Flight Control Systems Maintenance
  • Hydraulic Component Overhaul and Repair
  • In-Flight Refueling Systems
  • Technical Order Interpretation
  • Safety Procedures and Hazardous Materials Handling

Certification Pathways

Partial Coverage

Aircraft Hydraulic Systems Technician Certification (often offered by colleges or technical schools)70% covered

Specific civilian aircraft hydraulic systems, updated safety regulations, and documentation procedures may differ from military standards. Review current FAA regulations and specific aircraft maintenance manuals.

Certified Fluid Power Hydraulic Specialist (CFPHS)60% covered

While the military experience provides a strong foundation, this certification requires in-depth knowledge of commercial hydraulic systems, design principles, and troubleshooting techniques specific to fluid power applications. Study fluid power theory, component selection, and system design.

Recommended Next Certifications

FAA Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) Mechanic LicenseNDT Level II Certification (specific method, e.g., Ultrasonic Testing)Project Management Professional (PMP)

Technical Systems Translation

Military systems you've used and their civilian equivalents for your resume.

Military SystemCivilian Equivalent
Automated Maintenance Systems (various)Enterprise Asset Management (EAM) software like IBM Maximo or SAP EAM
Aircraft Hydraulic Test StandHydraulic system testing and repair equipment (e.g., SPX Flow, Parker)
TO 1-1-691 - Aircraft Jacking and Shoring ProceduresAircraft maintenance manuals and safety procedures from manufacturers like Boeing or Airbus
In-Flight Refueling (IFR) SystemsHigh-pressure fluid transfer systems used in aerospace or industrial applications
Aircraft Arresting Gear SystemsEmergency braking systems for high-speed vehicles (e.g., specialized braking systems for race cars)
Hydraulic Fluid Contamination Analysis EquipmentOil analysis and fluid testing services (e.g., Spectro Scientific, Bureau Veritas)
Technical Orders (TOs)OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) documentation and repair manuals

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