New Cohort Starts:

Donate

6112 Career Guide

Marine Corps

6112: CH-46 Helicopter Mechanic

Career transition guide for Marine Corps CH-46 Helicopter Mechanic (6112)

Translate Your 6112 Experience Now

Get a personalized AI-powered translation of your military experience into civilian resume language.

Start Free Translation

Civilian Career Pathways

Top civilian roles for 6112 veterans, with average salary and market demand data.

Aircraft Mechanic/Service Technician

$73K
High matchHigh demand

Avionics Technician

$78K
Good matchGrowing demand

Skills to develop:

FAA A&P LicenseSpecific avionics systems training

Wind Turbine Technician

$60K
Moderate matchVery high demand

Skills to develop:

Climbing/rescue certificationElectrical systems knowledgeWind turbine specific training

Maintenance Supervisor

$85K
Good matchStable demand

Skills to develop:

Project management certificationLeadership training

Quality Control Inspector

$62K
Moderate matchStable demand

Skills to develop:

ASQ Certified Quality Inspector certificationKnowledge of quality control standardsExperience with auditing processes

Salary estimates from VWC career data

Hidden Strengths

Cognitive skills your 6112 training built — and where they transfer.

Pattern Recognition

As a helicopter mechanic, you constantly identify patterns in mechanical behavior, recognizing subtle deviations from the norm in engine sounds, vibrations, and fluid leaks to preemptively diagnose potential failures.

This ability to discern subtle patterns translates directly to identifying anomalies and potential risks in data sets, financial reports, or market trends.

Rapid Prioritization

On the flight line, you quickly assessed the severity of mechanical issues, prioritizing repairs based on immediate flight safety and mission readiness. This meant making critical decisions under pressure, often with limited resources and time.

This skill translates into the ability to effectively manage multiple projects, allocate resources, and meet deadlines, even in fast-paced and demanding environments. You excel at triaging tasks based on urgency and impact.

Procedural Compliance

Helicopter maintenance demands strict adherence to detailed maintenance manuals and safety protocols. Your meticulous compliance ensured the airworthiness of the aircraft and the safety of the flight crew.

Your commitment to following established procedures and regulations makes you exceptionally well-suited for roles requiring precision, accuracy, and adherence to safety standards. You understand the importance of documentation and accountability.

System Modeling

You developed a deep understanding of how various helicopter systems interact and influence each other, allowing you to diagnose complex problems and predict potential cascading failures.

This comprehensive understanding of interconnected systems translates to an aptitude for analyzing complex business processes, identifying bottlenecks, and developing solutions that optimize overall performance.

Situational Awareness

Maintaining situational awareness on the flight line was critical for preventing accidents and ensuring the safety of personnel and equipment. You were constantly vigilant of your surroundings and potential hazards.

Your heightened awareness and ability to anticipate potential problems make you well-prepared for roles that require risk management, safety oversight, or security management.

Non-Obvious Career Matches

Quality Assurance Manager

SOC 11-3051.00

You've been trained to meticulously follow procedures and identify even the smallest deviations from established standards. Your experience in ensuring the airworthiness of helicopters makes you an ideal candidate for managing quality control in manufacturing or other industries where precision is paramount.

Compliance Officer

SOC 13-1041.00

You're accustomed to adhering to strict regulations and protocols. This makes you an excellent fit for ensuring that organizations comply with relevant laws, policies, and ethical standards. Your background in helicopter maintenance provides a unique perspective on risk management and safety.

Technical Trainer

SOC 25-9044.00

You've mastered complex mechanical systems and understand the importance of clear and concise communication. You can leverage your expertise to train others on technical equipment, maintenance procedures, or safety protocols. Your hands-on experience will make you a credible and effective instructor.

Predictive Maintenance Analyst

SOC 15-2031.00

You've honed your ability to identify patterns and predict potential failures in helicopter systems. This skillset can be applied to analyzing data from industrial equipment or infrastructure to identify potential maintenance needs and prevent costly breakdowns. You bring a proactive approach to problem-solving and risk management.

Training & Education Equivalencies

CH-46 Helicopter Mechanic School, Marine Corps Air Station New River, NC

960 training hours24 weeksUp to 15 semester hours recommended in Aviation Maintenance Technology

Topics Covered

  • Basic helicopter aerodynamics and systems
  • CH-46 airframe structure and components
  • Hydraulic and pneumatic systems maintenance
  • Flight control systems inspection and repair
  • Engine removal and installation procedures
  • Corrosion control and prevention techniques
  • Non-destructive inspection methods
  • Flight line safety procedures

Certification Pathways

Partial Coverage

Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) Mechanic70% covered

FAA regulations, specific engine overhaul procedures, and some fixed-wing aircraft knowledge. Focus on FAR Part 66.

Certified Aviation Technician (CAT)60% covered

General aviation maintenance practices, record-keeping specific to civilian aviation, and possibly avionics systems depending on the CAT focus.

Recommended Next Certifications

Inspection Authorization (IA)Commercial Pilot License (Helicopter)Project Management Professional (PMP)

Technical Systems Translation

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

Military SystemCivilian Equivalent
CH-46 Sea Knight Helicopter SystemsCommercial helicopter maintenance and repair (e.g., Sikorsky, Boeing)
Naval Aviation Logistics Command Management Information System (NALCOMIS)Enterprise Asset Management (EAM) software for aviation maintenance (e.g., IBM Maximo, SAP Plant Maintenance)
Automated Maintenance Environment (AME)Automated diagnostic and troubleshooting systems (e.g., used in automotive or aviation repair shops)
Support Equipment Recommendation Data (SERD)Parts cataloging and management systems
Flight Line Operations Management System (FLOMS)Aircraft maintenance tracking software
Technical Manuals and Publications Library (TM/P)Online technical documentation and knowledge base (e.g., Bentley, DITA)

Ready to Translate Your Experience?

Our AI-powered translator converts your 6112 experience into ATS-optimized civilian resume language.

Translate My Resume — Free