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6085 Career Guide

Marine Corps

6085: Aircraft Maintenance Technician

Career transition guide for Marine Corps Aircraft Maintenance Technician (6085)

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Civilian Career Pathways

Top civilian roles for 6085 veterans, with average salary and market demand data.

Aircraft Mechanic/Technician

$75K
High matchHigh demand

Aerospace Engineer

$125K
Good matchGrowing demand

Skills to develop:

Bachelor's Degree in Aerospace EngineeringCAD software proficiency

Avionics Technician

$78K
Good matchHigh demand

Skills to develop:

FAA certificationSpecific avionics systems training

Wind Turbine Technician

$60K
Moderate matchVery high demand

Skills to develop:

Wind turbine maintenance certificationHigh-angle rescue training

Maintenance Manager

$95K
Moderate matchStable demand

Skills to develop:

Project Management Professional (PMP) certificationLeadership training

Salary estimates from VWC career data

Hidden Strengths

Cognitive skills your 6085 training built — and where they transfer.

System Modeling

As an aircraft maintenance technician, you develop a deep understanding of how various aircraft systems (hydraulic, electrical, mechanical) interact and depend on each other. You troubleshoot issues by mentally mapping the flow of energy and signals within these systems.

This ability to visualize and understand complex systems makes you valuable in any field dealing with intricate processes or machinery. You can quickly grasp how different components work together and identify potential points of failure.

Procedural Compliance

Aircraft maintenance is governed by strict regulations and procedures to ensure safety and reliability. You follow detailed manuals and checklists meticulously to perform tasks accurately and avoid potentially catastrophic errors.

Your dedication to following procedures translates into a high level of accuracy and attention to detail. You excel in environments where adherence to protocols is critical for maintaining quality and safety.

Situational Awareness

Working on aircraft requires constant awareness of your surroundings and potential hazards. You must be vigilant to ensure your safety and the safety of your team, especially when operating around running engines or moving aircraft.

Your enhanced situational awareness makes you adept at identifying risks and responding quickly to unexpected events. You can anticipate potential problems and take proactive measures to prevent accidents or delays.

Degraded-Mode Operations

Aircraft maintenance often involves troubleshooting and repairing systems that are not functioning correctly. You learn to adapt to unexpected problems, use alternative methods, and find creative solutions to keep aircraft operational.

Your experience with degraded-mode operations demonstrates your resourcefulness and problem-solving skills. You are comfortable working under pressure and can find effective solutions even when resources are limited or conditions are challenging.

Non-Obvious Career Matches

Robotics Technician

SOC 49-9092

You've been working with complex mechanical and electrical systems in aircraft. Robotics applies similar principles but in a different context. Your troubleshooting skills and understanding of system interactions are directly transferable.

Wind Turbine Technician

SOC 49-9097

You've been maintaining aircraft engines and airframes. Wind turbines also involve complex mechanical systems that require regular maintenance, inspection, and repair. Your skills in hydraulics, pneumatics, and electrical systems are highly relevant.

Amusement and Recreation Mechanic

SOC 49-9091

You possess extensive experience in maintaining complex machinery and ensuring safety. Amusement park rides and attractions rely on intricate systems that need regular attention. Your skills in troubleshooting, preventative maintenance, and adherence to safety protocols are a perfect fit.

Training & Education Equivalencies

Aviation Maintenance Course, Naval Air Station Pensacola, FL

1,360 training hours34 weeksUp to 20 semester hours recommended in aviation maintenance technology

Topics Covered

  • Basic electricity and electronics
  • Aircraft hydraulic systems
  • Aircraft engine theory and maintenance (reciprocating and turbine)
  • Airframe structures and repair
  • Aircraft Weight and Balance
  • Corrosion control
  • Non-destructive inspection techniques
  • Safety procedures and regulations

Certification Pathways

Partial Coverage

Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) Mechanic70% covered

FAA regulations, specific aircraft systems not covered in military training, and practical experience requirements.

Certified Aviation Manager (CAM)30% covered

Formal business management training, experience in aviation management roles, and understanding of financial aspects of aviation operations.

Recommended Next Certifications

Inspection Authorization (IA)Commercial Pilot License (fixed wing or rotary wing)Project Management Professional (PMP)

Technical Systems Translation

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

Military SystemCivilian Equivalent
Joint Technical Data Integration (JTDI)SAE International standards database, commercial aviation maintenance manuals
Naval Aviation Logistics Command Management Information System (NALCOMIS)Enterprise Asset Management (EAM) software like IBM Maximo or SAP PM
Consolidated Automated Support System (CASS)Automated test equipment (ATE) for electronic component diagnostics, such as those from Keysight or National Instruments
Advanced Engine Diagnostic System (AEDS)Engine diagnostic software and hardware like those from AVL or Mahle
Oil Analysis Program (JOAP)Predictive maintenance software with oil analysis capabilities, such as those from Spectro Scientific
Automated Maintenance Environment (AME)Cloud-based maintenance management platforms like Fiix or UpKeep

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