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6386 Career Guide

Marine Corps

6386: Aircraft Electronic Countermeasures Systems Technician

Career transition guide for Marine Corps Aircraft Electronic Countermeasures Systems Technician (6386)

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Civilian Career Pathways

Top civilian roles for 6386 veterans, with average salary and market demand data.

Avionics Technician

$75K
High matchHigh demand

Electronics Technician

$65K
Good matchGrowing demand

Skills to develop:

Specific certifications related to industrial or commercial electronics repair (e.g., Certified Electronics Technician (CET))

Field Service Technician

$70K
Good matchStable demand

Skills to develop:

Strong customer service skillsExperience with specific industry equipment (e.g., medical devices, industrial machinery)

Electrical Engineer Technician

$68K
Moderate matchGrowing demand

Skills to develop:

Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering TechnologyCAD software proficiency

Telecommunications Equipment Installer and Repairer

$60K
Moderate matchStable demand

Skills to develop:

Knowledge of telecommunications systemsFiber optic certifications

Salary estimates from VWC career data

Hidden Strengths

Cognitive skills your 6386 training built — and where they transfer.

System Modeling

As an Aircraft Electronic Countermeasures Systems Technician, you develop a strong understanding of how various electronic systems integrate and function together within the aircraft. You troubleshoot issues by mentally mapping out the system and predicting how changes in one area will affect others.

This ability to visualize and understand complex systems translates directly to roles where you need to analyze and improve processes, understand how different components interact, or design and optimize workflows.

Procedural Compliance

Your work demands strict adherence to maintenance manuals, safety regulations, and quality control procedures. Every task, from installation to repair, follows documented protocols to ensure safety and optimal performance of critical aircraft systems.

This rigorous adherence to standards translates into a valuable asset in any regulated environment. You're well-prepared for roles requiring meticulous attention to detail, consistent execution, and a commitment to maintaining high standards.

Degraded-Mode Operations

When ECM systems malfunction or are partially damaged, you're the one who keeps them running. You learn to diagnose problems quickly, find workarounds, and maintain functionality even under duress, ensuring mission success when things aren't perfect.

This experience equips you to handle high-pressure situations where systems are failing or resources are limited. You excel at maintaining productivity and finding creative solutions even in the face of adversity.

Rapid Prioritization

Aircraft maintenance often involves juggling multiple tasks with varying levels of urgency. You become adept at quickly assessing the criticality of each task, prioritizing those that directly impact flight safety or mission readiness, and efficiently allocating your time and resources.

This skill translates seamlessly into civilian roles demanding quick decision-making and efficient resource allocation. You're well-equipped to handle competing demands, prioritize tasks effectively, and maintain focus under pressure.

Non-Obvious Career Matches

Wind Turbine Technician

SOC 49-9099.01

You've been maintaining complex electronic systems in demanding environments. As a wind turbine technician, you'll use your troubleshooting skills to keep these massive machines running efficiently, often working at heights and in challenging weather conditions. Your experience with safety protocols and preventative maintenance will be invaluable.

Industrial Machinery Mechanic

SOC 49-9041

You've been working with tools, schematics, and complex machinery to keep aircraft safe. As an Industrial Machinery Mechanic, you will be able to leverage your skills to install, maintain, and repair machinery in factories or production plants.

Building Automation Systems Technician

SOC 49-9021

You've been mastering complex electronics systems, so you already have the foundation to ensure heating, ventilation, air conditioning, lighting, and other systems are operating correctly, You will keep building occupants safe and save them money on their utility bills.

Training & Education Equivalencies

Electronic Countermeasures Systems Technician Course, Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, NC

640 training hours16 weeksUp to 9 semester hours in electronics technology

Topics Covered

  • Electronic Warfare (EW) Principles
  • Radar Systems Theory and Operation
  • Electronic Attack (EA) Techniques
  • AN/ALQ-231(V)1/2 Intrepid Tiger II Airborne Electronic Attack (AEA) System Maintenance
  • Advanced Component Troubleshooting
  • Cryptographic Equipment Handling and Maintenance
  • Spectrum Analysis and Management

Certification Pathways

Partial Coverage

Certified Electronic Technician (CET)65% covered

Study general electronics principles, troubleshooting methodologies, and specific electronic components not covered in the military training.

CompTIA A+40% covered

Focus on PC hardware, operating systems, networking, and security concepts relevant to civilian IT environments.

Recommended Next Certifications

Certified Electronics Technician - Radar (CET-Radar)Certified Aviation Technician (AMT)CompTIA Security+

Technical Systems Translation

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

Military SystemCivilian Equivalent
AN/ALQ-231(V) Intrepid Tiger IIElectronic Warfare Simulation and Testing Software
AN/ALE-47 Countermeasures Dispensing SystemAutomated flare and chaff dispensing systems
AN/ALR-76 Radar Warning ReceiverSpectrum analyzers for radar signal detection
Cryptographic equipment (e.g., KG-series, KIV-series)Hardware Security Modules (HSM)
Automated Test Equipment (ATE) stationsAutomated circuit board testing equipment
Advanced Threat Radar Environment Simulators (ATRES)RF signal generators and waveform generators

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