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MarinesMOS: 6672
Aviation Supply Specialist
The civilian and federal jobs that hire Marines Aviation Supply Specialists — with real salaries and the resume that gets callbacks.
Every 6672 has more options than a Google search will tell you. Below: career paths, BLS salary data, federal GS series, certifications by target career, and how to translate your experience without losing what made you valuable to the Marines in the first place.
Free · No credit card · Tailored resume in under 5 minutes
$46K–$102K
Salary Range
BLS-verified median salaries
12
Career Paths
16
Companies Hiring
10
Resume Examples
5
Federal GS Series
7
Certification Paths
10
FAQs Answered
BT
Brad Tachi
Navy Diver · BMR Founder
After the Navy I got hired into 6 federal career fields and tech sales, and sat on federal hiring panels along the way. I spent the last 2 years rebuilding everything I learned into BMR, tuned for how AI actually screens resumes today. This is the system I wish I'd had on day one.
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Military Role Overview
MOS 6672 Aviation Supply Specialists are the Marines who keep aircraft flying by making sure every part, tool, and consumable is available when maintenance needs it. This is not general warehouse work and it is not supply administration paperwork. Aviation supply is the direct link between the flight line and the supply chain — when a CH-53K needs a hydraulic actuator or an F-35B needs an avionics module, the 6672 is the one who tracks it, orders it, receives it, and gets it into the hands of the maintainers.
The core system for 6672s is NALCOMIS (Naval Aviation Logistics Command Management Information System), specifically the OOMA (Optimized Organizational Maintenance Activity) module that tracks aircraft components from removal through repair and return. Every repairable component generates a DIFM (Due-In From Maintenance) record, and tracking those records is a daily responsibility. You also work with R-Supply for requisitioning, and if you served in an F-35 squadron, you may have hands-on experience with ALIS (Autonomic Logistics Information System) or its replacement ODIN (Operational Data Integrated Network). These are aviation-specific enterprise logistics platforms that have no equivalent in ground supply MOSs.
Aviation supply Marines are assigned to MALS (Marine Aviation Logistics Squadrons), which support entire MAGs (Marine Aircraft Groups). Within the MALS, 6672s work in sections like Supply Support, Repairables Management, Consumables, or the Aviation Supply Desk (ASD). Senior 6672s track aircraft readiness rates and sortie generation rates because parts availability directly drives whether aircraft can fly. When an aircraft is coded "down for supply" (also called AWP — Awaiting Parts), that falls on aviation supply to resolve.
Training begins at Marine Combat Training (MCT), followed by the Aviation Supply Fundamentals course at MCCSSS, Camp Johnson, NC. After the schoolhouse, 6672s report to MALS units at air stations like MCAS Cherry Point, MCAS Miramar, MCAS New River, MCAS Beaufort, or MCAS Iwakuni. The real education happens on the job — learning NIIN (National Item Identification Number) lookup, understanding technical manuals to verify part numbers, and managing the constant flow of components between organizational-level (O-level) maintenance, intermediate-level (I-level) maintenance at the IMA (Intermediate Maintenance Activity), and depot-level repair facilities.
What separates a 6672 from a 3051 Warehouse Clerk or a 3043 Supply Administration Specialist is the aviation context. You are not managing general supplies in a warehouse — you are managing aircraft components that have serial numbers, time-change intervals, shelf-life limitations, and traceability requirements mandated by NAVAIR. One wrong part number on an aircraft component can ground an aircraft or worse. Civilian aviation employers understand this level of accountability because they operate under the same FAA/EASA regulatory framework.
Aviation supply is one of the easiest Marine MOSes to translate into a federal career — I worked in federal supply, logistics, and property management for years after the Navy. The 6672 skill set lines up with the GS-2050 Supply Cataloging and GS-2010 Inventory Management series, and your aviation parts cataloging experience is the foundation. — Brad Tachi, Navy Diver veteran & BMR founder
Security ClearanceSecret (common)
ASVAB RequirementCL: 90
TrainingMarine Combat Training (MCT) followed by Aviation Supply Fundamentals course at MCCSSS, Camp Johnson, NC (~8 weeks). Covers NALCOMIS operations, aviation supply procedures, repairable component management, NIIN lookup, and R-Supply requisitioning. Advanced training occurs on the job at MALS assignments.
Certs Earned in ServiceNALCOMIS/OOMA operator certification, R-Supply operator certification, Hazardous materials handling (aviation-specific), First Aid/CPR
Pay Reality Check
The number that matters when you're deciding what's next: how does civilian pay compare to what you make now?
Marines mid-career
$58K–$82K
E-5 to E-7 total comp (base + BAH + BAS + tax advantage)
Civilian Aviation Supply Specialist
$46K–$102K
BLS median across direct-match civilian roles
Federal (GS-9 to GS-13)
$58K–$120K
5 matching GS series + locality pay + step increases
+11% on average
Civilian roles for Aviation Supply Specialists pay ~$8K more than mid-career enlisted total comp.
Military comp is approximate (varies by location/dependents). Civilian is BLS median. Federal includes locality pay. Your real number depends on duty station, family status, GS step, and overtime.
Private Sector Career Paths
Aviation supply experience translates directly to several civilian career paths because the work — tracking serialized components, managing repairable inventories, coordinating with maintenance departments, and keeping expensive assets operational — mirrors what happens in commercial aviation, defense contracting, and manufacturing.
The strongest career match is in aviation MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul) operations, where companies like Boeing, Lockheed Martin, and third-party MROs need parts planners and materials coordinators who already understand aircraft component traceability. Airlines also run large parts departments where familiarity with aviation-specific supply chain requirements (serialized tracking, shelf-life management, return-to-vendor processes) gives former 6672s an immediate advantage over candidates from general supply backgrounds.
According to BLS May 2024 data, logisticians earn a median annual wage of $80,880 (O*NET 13-1081.00), with 17% projected growth — well above average. Transportation, storage, and distribution managers earn a median of $102,010 (O*NET 11-3071.00). For entry-level positions like production, planning, and expediting clerks, BLS reports a median of $46,120 for material recording clerks as a group (O*NET 43-5061.00). Purchasing agents — a common next step for 6672s who managed vendor relationships and procurement — earn a median of $75,650 (O*NET 13-1020.00).
Defense contractors are another strong path. Companies like Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, and General Dynamics need logistics analysts and supply chain specialists who understand military aviation logistics systems. If you worked on F-35 sustainment with ALIS/ODIN, that experience is directly relevant to ongoing F-35 global sustainment contracts that these companies manage. DLA Aviation (Defense Logistics Agency) is the wholesale supplier for military aviation parts — former 6672s understand their processes from the customer side, which makes them valuable hires on the DLA side as well.
Civilian Job Title Translations
| Civilian Job Title | Industry | BLS Median Salary | Outlook | Match |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Logistician O*NET: 13-1081.00 | Aviation / Defense / Manufacturing | $80,880 | 17% (much faster than average) | strong |
Aviation Parts Planner / Materials Coordinator O*NET: 13-1081.00 | Aviation MRO / Airlines | $80,880 | 17% (much faster than average) | strong |
Production, Planning, and Expediting Clerk O*NET: 43-5061.00 | Manufacturing / Aerospace / Defense | $46,120 | -6% (declining overall, but 108K+ annual openings) | strong |
Purchasing Agent O*NET: 13-1028.00 | Aerospace / Defense / Manufacturing | $75,650 | 2% (as fast as average) | moderate |
Transportation, Storage, and Distribution Manager O*NET: 11-3071.00 | Logistics / Transportation / Warehousing | $102,010 | 7% (faster than average) | moderate |
Inventory Analyst / Demand Planner O*NET: 13-1081.00 | Aerospace / Manufacturing / Retail | $80,880 | 17% (much faster than average) | strong |
Logistician
Aviation / Defense / Manufacturing
$80,880median
17% (much faster than average)
O*NET: 13-1081.00
Aviation Parts Planner / Materials Coordinator
Aviation MRO / Airlines
$80,880median
17% (much faster than average)
O*NET: 13-1081.00
Production, Planning, and Expediting Clerk
Manufacturing / Aerospace / Defense
$46,120median
-6% (declining overall, but 108K+ annual openings)
O*NET: 43-5061.00
Purchasing Agent
Aerospace / Defense / Manufacturing
$75,650median
2% (as fast as average)
O*NET: 13-1028.00
Transportation, Storage, and Distribution Manager
Logistics / Transportation / Warehousing
$102,010median
7% (faster than average)
O*NET: 11-3071.00
Inventory Analyst / Demand Planner
Aerospace / Manufacturing / Retail
$80,880median
17% (much faster than average)
O*NET: 13-1081.00
Companies That Hire This Background
F-35, C-130, CH-53K, and other program sustainment logistics. 6672s with ALIS/ODIN or F-35 squadron experience are directly relevant to their performance-based logistics contracts.
Commercial aviation parts and MRO operations, plus defense programs (V-22, AH-64, F/A-18). Supply chain, logistics analyst, and materials management positions across multiple sites.
Logistics and sustainment for military platforms. Supply chain management and materiel management roles supporting active defense programs.
Multiple divisions (NASSCO, Mission Systems, Land Systems) hire logistics and supply chain specialists. San Diego NASSCO shipyard is relevant for Marines transitioning from West Coast air stations.
The wholesale supplier for military aviation parts. Richmond, VA headquarters plus field offices at military installations. GS-2010 Inventory Management and GS-2003 Supply Management positions. Former 6672s understand DLA processes from the customer side.
Patuxent River MD headquarters, plus fleet readiness centers at Jacksonville FL, Cherry Point NC, and North Island CA. Logistics management, equipment specialist, and supply management positions supporting naval aviation.
Avionics, sensors, and communication systems sustainment. Logistics and supply chain roles supporting component repair and distribution networks.
Missile systems, radar, and avionics sustainment programs. Supply chain analyst and logistics coordinator positions at sites nationwide.
One of the largest independent aviation MRO and parts distribution companies. Hires for parts management, inventory control, and supply chain roles. Your aviation parts knowledge translates directly.
Major MRO provider with facilities in Pensacola FL and Mobile AL — near Marine Corps air stations. Parts planning and materials management positions.
One of the largest airline MRO operations. Parts procurement, inventory management, and supply chain positions within Delta TechOps in Atlanta.
San Francisco, Houston, and Indianapolis MRO facilities. Aviation parts management and supply chain coordinator roles.
Albany, GA. The Marine Corps depot that manages lifecycle logistics for ground and aviation equipment. GS-2010, GS-0346, and GS-1670 positions directly relevant to 6672 experience.
Mechanicsburg PA headquarters plus weapon stations and fleet logistics centers. Supply management and logistics positions supporting the Navy-Marine Corps supply chain.
One of the largest logistics employers in the country. Area manager, operations manager, and supply chain roles. Your inventory management and high-tempo operations experience is valued even outside aviation.
Manages federal procurement and supply. Supply management specialist and acquisition positions. Understanding government supply chain processes from the military side is directly relevant.
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Real Marines success story
“Hey Brad, Just wanted to send out a quick thank you. You've created something amazing with BMR and your continued advocacy for transitioning service members does not go unnoticed. It was the most effective resource I used in my transition and I know it played a key role in landing a six figure…”
Dominic· Gunnery Sergeant (E-7)· Marines
→ Project ManagerFederal Career Paths
Marine aviation supply veterans already speak the language of federal logistics — NSNs, NALCOMIS, allowancing, and readiness-based sparing. That background maps directly to positions at Fleet Readiness Centers (FRC East at Cherry Point, FRC Southeast at Jacksonville, FRC Southwest at North Island) where civilian supply specialists manage the same aviation parts pipelines you worked in uniform. Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) at Patuxent River and China Lake also hires former aviation supply specialists into GS-2010 and GS-2030 series positions managing weapon system sustainment. Military supply experience at the GS-5 through GS-9 level often qualifies on its own — no degree required.
The most direct match is the GS-2010 Inventory Management Specialist series, which covers exactly what 6672s did: managing inventories of equipment and supplies, determining stock levels, and coordinating with maintenance activities. DLA Aviation in Richmond, VA is one of the largest federal employers of inventory management specialists, and they specifically recruit veterans with military aviation supply backgrounds.
Other strong GS series matches for 6672s include:
- GS-2003 Supply Management — managing supply operations, procurement, and distribution at military installations and federal agencies
- GS-2001 General Supply — broad supply management positions at VA hospitals, military bases, and federal warehouses
- GS-2030 Distribution Facilities and Storage Management — warehouse and distribution center management for DLA, GSA, and military depots
- GS-2032 Packaging — specialized packaging and preservation, especially for aviation components requiring MIL-SPEC packaging
- GS-1670 Equipment Specialist — managing equipment maintenance programs, a natural fit for 6672s who tracked repairable components
- GS-1910 Quality Assurance Specialist — inspection and quality control of supplies and equipment, especially at NAVAIR or fleet readiness centers
- GS-1101 General Business and Industry — broad category covering procurement, contract administration, and business management
- GS-1102 Contracting — federal acquisition and procurement; 6672s who processed requisitions and worked with vendors have relevant experience
- GS-0346 Logistics Management — the premier federal logistics series covering supply chain analysis, distribution planning, and lifecycle logistics
- GS-2005 Supply Clerical and Technician — entry-level supply support positions that serve as a pathway to higher-graded management roles
- GS-0343 Management and Program Analyst — analyzing organizational efficiency, a match for senior 6672s who tracked readiness metrics
- GS-1152 Production Control — scheduling and controlling production operations at maintenance depots and manufacturing facilities
- GS-1176 Building Management — facilities and property management, relevant for 6672s with equipment accountability experience
- GS-0301 Miscellaneous Administration and Program — the broadest federal series, open to veterans with management and program experience
- GS-2150 Transportation Operations — managing transportation and shipping operations at military and federal facilities
Key federal employers for former 6672s include DLA Aviation (Richmond, VA), NAVAIR (Patuxent River, MD and various fleet readiness centers), Marine Corps Logistics Command (Albany, GA), Naval Supply Systems Command (NAVSUP), and GSA (General Services Administration). Veterans' Preference gives you 5 or 10 additional points on federal assessments. Start your federal resume early — federal hiring timelines often run 3-6 months from application to start date.
GS Series & Position Matches
| GS Series | Federal Job Title | Typical Grades | Match | Explore |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GS-2050 | Supply Cataloging | GS-7, GS-9, GS-11 | View Details → | |
| GS-1670 | Equipment Services | GS-9, GS-11, GS-12 | View Details → | |
| GS-2010 | Inventory Management | GS-7, GS-9, GS-11 | View Details → | |
| GS-2030 | Distribution Facilities and Storage Management | GS-7, GS-9, GS-11 | View Details → | |
| GS-0301 | Miscellaneous Administration and Program | GS-7, GS-9 | View Details → |
Federal resumes follow different rules. We know them.
Federal hiring uses keyword-matching and structured experience. BMR builds federal-format resumes (USAJobs-ready) with the right keywords, hours/week, and supervisor info — for any GS series above.
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Want to Change Careers Entirely?
Not everyone wants to stay in a related field. These career paths leverage your transferable skills — leadership, risk management, logistics, project planning — in completely different industries.
Bookkeeping, Accounting, and Auditing Clerk
$49,210
Accounting and Finance(O*NET: 43-3031.00)BLS OEWS May 2024-1% or lower (Decline)
Reconciling accounts and balancing recordsTracking funds against a budgetCatching and correcting discrepanciesDocumentation accuracy under audit
Aviation supply ran on funds reconciliation, account balancing, and records that had to survive an audit. That is bookkeeping. The instinct for making the numbers tie out is the whole job.
How to get there: A short bookkeeping course or an accounting certificate gets you started; the AIPB Certified Bookkeeper credential helps. Military financial-records experience is a real selling point. GI Bill covers most programs.
Tax Preparer
$50,560
Financial Services(O*NET: 13-2082.00)BLS OEWS May 20245% to 6% (Faster than average)
Applying detailed rules to financial documentsAccuracy with figures and deadlinesOrganizing and verifying source recordsExplaining requirements to non-experts
Preparing returns is rule-driven financial detail work against a hard deadline, the same discipline that kept aviation supply accounts clean and compliant. Veterans who never let a number slide do well here.
How to get there: Complete a tax-preparation course (some are weeks long), get a PREP/PTIN, and many start seasonally before going full time. The IRS Annual Filing Season Program builds credibility. GI Bill covers many courses.
Loan Officer
$74,180
Banking and Lending(O*NET: 13-2072.00)BLS OEWS May 20241% to 2% (Slower than average)
Reviewing financial records for accuracyVerifying documentation against requirementsManaging accounts and case filesCustomer-facing problem solving
Approving a loan is verifying documents, checking the numbers, and managing the file to a standard, which mirrors how you processed and validated supply requisitions and accounts. The detail discipline transfers directly.
How to get there: Most banks hire and train; a high school diploma is the floor, and mortgage roles require passing the NMLS exam. A finance associate or bachelor degree (GI Bill eligible) opens more positions.
Insurance Claims and Policy Processing Clerk
$48,450
Insurance(O*NET: 43-9041.00)BLS OEWS May 2024-1% or lower (Decline)
Processing transactions against strict rulesRecords accuracy and document controlVerifying entitlements and documentationResolving exceptions case by case
Processing claims and policies is checking documents against rules and keeping records clean, which is exactly what running a supply account demanded. The transaction discipline carries straight over.
How to get there: Insurers hire and train; a high school diploma plus strong attention to detail is the baseline. State licensing applies for some claims roles, earned on the job. Military records-processing experience is a hiring advantage.
Medical Records Specialist
$50,250
Healthcare(O*NET: 29-2072.00)BLS OEWS May 20247% or higher (Much faster than average)
Maintaining accurate records in a database systemCompliance with documentation standardsCoding and classifying information preciselyProtecting sensitive data
Health information work is database-driven records accuracy under strict compliance rules, the same world as managing aviation supply records in NALCOMIS and R-Supply. The systems instinct and the accuracy standard both transfer.
How to get there: Complete a medical records or health-information certificate (often under a year, GI Bill eligible) and earn the AHIMA RHIT or a coding credential. No prior clinical experience required and the field is growing fast.
Eligibility Interviewer, Government Programs
$51,500
Government Services(O*NET: 43-4061.00)BLS OEWS May 20241% to 2% (Slower than average)
Verifying documentation against eligibility rulesManaging case files and accountsAccurate data entry into government systemsExplaining requirements to applicants
Determining program eligibility is verifying paperwork against the rulebook and managing each case to a standard, the same disciplined account-and-documentation work you did in aviation supply. Veterans also get hiring preference for these roles.
How to get there: State and federal agencies hire and train; a high school diploma or associate degree is typical. Veterans Preference applies to most government openings, and military records experience is directly relevant.
Pivoting industries? You don't need to start from scratch.
The skills that made you a good Marine, Sailor, Airman, or Soldier transfer further than you think. BMR rewrites your bullets for any of the pivot careers above — without making you sound like you've never done the work.
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Skills Translation Guide
If you are applying to aviation MRO companies, airlines, or defense contractors with aviation logistics positions, your terminology translates directly. Hiring managers in those industries know what NALCOMIS is, what a DIFM record means, and why parts availability drives readiness. You do not need this section for those roles.
This section is for 6672s targeting careers outside of aviation — general supply chain management, manufacturing logistics, operations management, or any role where the hiring manager has never heard of a MALS or an AWP code. Below are translations that reframe your aviation supply experience into language that works for non-aviation industries.
Resume Bullet Examples
Before (Military)
Managed 200+ active DIFM records across 3 aircraft types, tracking component status from removal through IMA repair and RFI return, maintaining 95% on-time return rate
After (Civilian)
Managed repairable asset lifecycle for 200+ serialized components across 3 product lines, tracking each unit from removal through certified repair and return to serviceable inventory, achieving 95% on-time cycle completion
Before (Military)
Processed 150+ monthly requisitions through R-Supply and NALCOMIS for aircraft maintenance support, prioritizing mission-critical orders and tracking delivery status
After (Civilian)
Processed 150+ monthly procurement orders through enterprise logistics systems, prioritizing time-sensitive requests for production support and providing real-time delivery status updates to internal stakeholders
Before (Military)
Maintained 87% aircraft readiness rate for 12-aircraft squadron through proactive parts forecasting, vendor coordination, and critical component expediting
After (Civilian)
Maintained 87% equipment availability rate for a fleet of 12 high-value assets ($30M+ total) through proactive demand forecasting, vendor management, and expedited procurement of critical components
Before (Military)
Coordinated component inductions and RFI returns with IMA, reducing average repair turnaround from 14 to 9 days through improved communication and tracking
After (Civilian)
Coordinated component repair scheduling with certified overhaul facility, reducing average turnaround time from 14 to 9 days (36% improvement) through enhanced tracking and communication protocols
Before (Military)
Performed NIIN lookup and technical manual research to verify correct part numbers for 500+ line items, preventing mis-identification errors on serialized aircraft components
After (Civilian)
Conducted part number research and cross-referenced technical specifications for 500+ line items, ensuring procurement accuracy for serialized components and preventing costly ordering errors
Before (Military)
Managed ASD operations for MALS-14, serving as primary coordination point between 4 squadrons and 6 maintenance work centers for all parts requests and status updates
After (Civilian)
Managed central materials coordination desk serving 4 operating units and 6 production departments, processing parts requests, providing delivery status updates, and prioritizing allocation of limited inventory
Before (Military)
Led annual wall-to-wall inventory of $8.5M aviation supply account, reconciling 3,000+ line items and processing 200+ items through DRMO disposition
After (Civilian)
Led annual comprehensive physical inventory of $8.5M in assets, reconciling 3,000+ SKUs against system records, identifying discrepancies, and managing surplus disposition for 200+ items per company policy
Before (Military)
Maintained HAZMAT storage facility for aviation consumables including hydraulic fluids, sealants, and batteries per NAVAIR requirements, conducting weekly inspections and maintaining MSDS documentation
After (Civilian)
Administered hazardous materials storage and compliance program for industrial consumables, conducting weekly facility inspections, maintaining safety data sheet documentation, and ensuring full regulatory compliance with OSHA and EPA standards
Before (Military)
Briefed squadron CO and maintenance officer weekly on supply status, AWP impact on readiness, and open requisition status for 12-aircraft detachment
After (Civilian)
Prepared and delivered weekly supply chain performance reports to senior leadership, covering inventory KPIs, backorder impact on production uptime, and procurement pipeline status for business-critical assets
Before (Military)
Operated ALIS for F-35B squadron supply operations, managing component tracking, automated fault reporting, and sustainment data for 16-aircraft fleet
After (Civilian)
Operated enterprise logistics information system for fleet sustainment of 16 next-generation assets, managing automated component tracking, predictive maintenance data integration, and real-time inventory optimization
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Certifications by Career Path
Which certifications you need depends on where you're headed. Find your target career path below.
Emergency Management
FEMA Professional Development Series
RecommendedFEMA Emergency Management Institute
Cost: Free (online)Time: 2-4 weeks
Free online courses that build emergency management credentials. Good for 6672s interested in federal or state emergency management positions. Complete while still on active duty.
Certified Emergency Manager (CEM)
RecommendedIAEM
Cost: $250 - $375 examTime: 3-6 months study
Industry-recognized emergency management credential. Requires a combination of education, experience, and training. Government agencies are the primary employers.
Federal Employment
Federal Resume + USAJobs Profile
RecommendedN/A
Cost: Free (build at bestmilitaryresume.com)Time: 1-2 hours
Not a certification, but required for all federal positions. Federal resumes follow different rules than private sector. Start 6 months before separation. Build yours at bestmilitaryresume.com.
GIS & Geospatial
APICS CSCP (Certified Supply Chain Professional)
RecommendedASCM (formerly APICS)
Cost: $1,500 - $2,500 (exam + materials)Time: 3-6 months studyGI Bill Eligible
The most recognized supply chain certification. Your military logistics experience counts toward the experience requirement. Strong signal to civilian employers that you understand end-to-end supply chain management.
APICS CPIM (Certified in Production and Inventory Management)
RecommendedASCM (formerly APICS)
Cost: $1,200 - $2,000 (exam + materials)Time: 3-6 months studyGI Bill Eligible
Focused on production and inventory management — directly relevant to 6672 repairable component management and demand forecasting experience.
Certified Logistics Associate (CLA) / Certified Logistics Technician (CLT)
RecommendedMSSC (Manufacturing Skill Standards Council)
Cost: $150 - $300 per examTime: 2-4 weeks studyGI Bill Eligible
Entry-level certifications that validate logistics knowledge. Good stepping stone if pursuing higher certifications. Can be completed quickly while still on active duty.
Operations Management
Lean Six Sigma Green Belt
RecommendedASQ or IASSC
Cost: $300 - $500Time: 2-4 monthsGI Bill Eligible
Process improvement methodology used across industries. Demonstrates ability to analyze and improve supply chain processes. Some military commands offer Lean Six Sigma training — check if you can earn this before separating.
Certified Manager (CM)
RecommendedICPM
Cost: $250 - $400Time: 2-3 months study
Validates management skills for those transitioning into operations leadership roles. Useful when military leadership experience needs a civilian-recognized credential.
Project Management
Project Management Professional (PMP)
RecommendedPMI
Cost: $400 - $600 exam feeTime: 3-6 months studyGI Bill Eligible
Gold standard for project management. Senior 6672s who managed supply projects and coordinated across departments may already meet PMI experience requirements. Check PMI.org for current eligibility.
Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM)
RecommendedPMI
Cost: $250 - $400 exam feeTime: 2-3 months studyGI Bill Eligible
Entry-level PM certification for those who do not yet meet PMP experience requirements. Good bridge certification while building civilian project management hours.
Quality Assurance
ASQ Certified Quality Auditor (CQA)
RecommendedASQ
Cost: $400 - $600 (member/non-member)Time: 2-4 months studyGI Bill Eligible
Relevant for 6672s targeting QA roles in aerospace and defense. Understanding of audit processes and documentation accuracy from aviation supply translates directly.
Safety & EHS
OSHA 30-Hour General Industry
RecommendedOSHA
Cost: $150 - $300Time: 4 days (available online)
Foundational safety certification. Can be completed online while still on active duty. Required for many safety-related positions in manufacturing and warehousing.
Certified Safety Professional (CSP)
RecommendedBoard of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP)
Cost: $300 - $500 exam feeTime: 3-6 months studyGI Bill Eligible
The most respected safety certification. Your HAZMAT handling and aviation safety compliance experience counts toward the experience requirement.
HAZWOPER 40-Hour
RecommendedOSHA
Cost: $150 - $500Time: 5 days
Required for hazardous waste site workers. Relevant for 6672s who handled aviation HAZMAT and want to transition into environmental health and safety roles.
Got a cert? Don't bury it. List it the right way.
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Transition Resources
For Staying in Aviation Supply Chain
SkillBridge Programs: Several aviation and defense companies participate in DOD SkillBridge, allowing Marines to work civilian jobs during their last 180 days of service. Boeing, Lockheed Martin, and several MRO companies have historically offered SkillBridge positions in supply chain and logistics roles. Check the SkillBridge database for current openings and coordinate with your command's career counselor early — slots fill fast.
Aviation Industry Associations: The Aeronautical Repair Station Association (ARSA) represents MRO companies and is a good networking resource. The Aviation Suppliers Association (ASA) focuses on parts distribution — their conferences are where aviation supply chain hiring happens.
FAA Certifications: If you want to stay in aviation, research FAA Part 145 repair station requirements. Understanding the regulatory environment for aviation parts (return-to-vendor, certificate of conformance, airworthiness tags) gives you an edge. Your NALCOMIS traceability experience directly maps to FAA documentation requirements.
Defense Contractor Transition: Companies managing F-35 sustainment (Lockheed Martin), V-22 support (Bell/Boeing), and helicopter programs (Sikorsky/Lockheed Martin) need people who already understand military aviation logistics. Your NALCOMIS/OOMA experience is relevant to their performance-based logistics (PBL) contracts. Apply directly through their veteran hiring portals.
For Careers Outside of Aviation
Supply Chain Certifications: The APICS CSCP (Certified Supply Chain Professional) from ASCM is the most recognized supply chain certification. Cost is approximately $1,500-$2,500 for exam and materials. Your military logistics experience counts toward the experience requirement. GI Bill covers many prep courses.
Project Management: The PMP certification (PMI) is valuable for 6672s who managed supply projects, coordinated across departments, or led teams. Senior 6672s who ran supply sections may already qualify based on documented project hours. Cost: ~$555 (PMI member) for the exam.
Federal Employment (USAJobs): Create your USAJobs profile immediately — do not wait until you separate. Use the "Veterans" filter. Key agencies: DLA Aviation, NAVAIR, Marine Corps Logistics Command, NAVSUP, and GSA. Federal resumes are 2 pages max. Build yours here.
Veteran Networking: American Corporate Partners (ACP) provides free mentorship from corporate executives — you will get paired with someone in your target industry. ACP is legitimate and completely free for veterans.
Education Benefits: Many supply chain management certificate programs and degree programs accept GI Bill. Check the GI Bill Comparison Tool to verify program approval before enrolling. APICS certifications, Lean Six Sigma, and PMP prep courses are often covered.
Clearance Leverage: If you hold an active Secret clearance, that has real market value with defense contractors. Sites like ClearanceJobs.com list positions that require active clearances. Do not let yours lapse during transition.
BMR Career Resources
Military to Supply Chain Management: Career Guide | Military to Logistics Management: Career Guide | Military Logistics to Civilian Supply Chain | Build Your Resume Free
Your 30 / 60 / 90-Day Transition Plan
Most veterans do this backwards — they wait until terminal leave to start, then panic. Here's the actual sequence that works.
1Days 0–30
Set the foundation
- Pull your DD-214 (request from Milconnect if separated)
- List your top 3 civilian roles AND top 3 GS series
- Build your tailored 6672 resume — BMR does it free
- Write 1 strong LinkedIn headline (not "veteran seeking opportunities")
- Pull together your evals/performance reports for accomplishments
2Days 30–60
Apply with intent
- Apply to 5–10 jobs/week — quality over quantity
- Tailor every resume to the job description (BMR auto-tailors)
- Connect with 5 people/week on LinkedIn (not a spray)
- Set up a USAJobs profile and a saved-search alert for your GS series
- Practice translating your military bullets out loud — explain to a civilian friend
3Days 60–90
Close the offer
- Track every application — date, status, contact, notes
- Follow up 7–10 days after each application
- Prep for behavioral interviews using the STAR method
- Negotiate salary — don't take the first offer (BLS median is your floor)
- Stay applying even after one offer — leverage = options
Print this. Tape it to your monitor. Veterans who treat the transition like a 90-day op get hired faster than the ones who treat it like an emergency.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a 6672 Aviation Supply Specialist and a 3051 Warehouse Clerk?
The 3051 is a general warehouse MOS — receiving, storing, and issuing supplies using ATLASS/GCSS-MC. The 6672 is aviation-specific: you work with NALCOMIS/OOMA, manage serialized aircraft components with traceability requirements, track DIFM records, and directly support aircraft readiness rates. Aviation supply involves repairable component management, NIIN lookup for aircraft parts, and coordination with maintenance departments (O-level, I-level, depot). General warehouse experience and aviation supply are fundamentally different skill sets, and civilian aviation employers know the difference.
What is the median salary for logistics and supply chain careers?
According to BLS May 2024 data, logisticians earn a median annual wage of $80,880 (SOC 13-1081), with 17% projected job growth. Transportation, storage, and distribution managers earn a median of $102,010 (SOC 11-3071). Purchasing agents earn a median of $75,650 (SOC 13-1020). Entry-level material recording clerk positions have a median of $46,120. Salaries vary significantly by industry — aviation and defense logistics positions typically pay toward the higher end of these ranges due to the specialized knowledge required.
Does my NALCOMIS experience matter to civilian employers?
In aviation — absolutely. MRO companies, airlines, and defense contractors that manage military aircraft sustainment contracts use similar component tracking and logistics systems. Your NALCOMIS/OOMA experience demonstrates that you understand serialized component traceability, repairable management workflows, and aviation-specific supply chain requirements. For non-aviation employers, NALCOMIS is less meaningful as a system name, but the skills it represents (ERP system proficiency, inventory management, parts forecasting) are universal.
What if I want to leave supply chain entirely?
Many 6672s transition into project management (BLS median $100,750), operations management ($102,950), or safety management ($83,910). Your transferable skills — coordinating across departments, managing deadlines, tracking metrics, and solving problems under pressure — apply across industries. See the Career Change Paths section above for specific entry paths and certifications for each career pivot.
Is my security clearance valuable after separation?
Yes. An active Secret clearance saves employers $5,000-15,000+ and months of processing time. Defense contractors and federal agencies frequently require clearances for logistics and supply chain positions. Sites like ClearanceJobs.com list positions that require active clearances. Your clearance stays active for up to 24 months after separation if not renewed — start your job search before it lapses.
Should I get a degree or certifications first?
For supply chain and logistics careers, certifications typically provide faster ROI than a degree. The APICS CSCP ($1,500-$2,500) is the most recognized supply chain certification. For project management, the PMP ($400-$600 exam) is the gold standard. Many employers in logistics and operations management accept military experience in lieu of a degree, especially combined with professional certifications. Use the GI Bill Comparison Tool to verify certification program approval before spending benefits.
How does Veterans Preference work for federal logistics jobs?
Veterans Preference gives you 5 or 10 extra points on federal hiring assessments. Disabled veterans get 10 points. You need your DD-214 (Member 4 copy) and SF-15 form. DLA Aviation and NAVAIR frequently use Direct Hire Authority for veteran hires in logistics positions. Apply to positions at GS-5 through GS-9 initially where Veterans Preference is most impactful. Start your federal resume early at bestmilitaryresume.com — federal hiring timelines run 3-6 months.
Where are the best job markets for aviation supply chain?
For aviation-specific roles: major MRO hubs near commercial airports (DFW, Atlanta, Miami, Seattle, Tulsa) and military aviation centers (Patuxent River MD, Jacksonville FL, San Diego CA, Hampton Roads VA). Defense contractor logistics hubs cluster around the DC Metro area, Marietta GA (Lockheed Martin), Fort Worth TX (Lockheed F-35), and St. Louis MO (Boeing). DLA Aviation is headquartered in Richmond, VA. For general supply chain, any major metro with manufacturing or distribution operations has demand.
Can I start job searching while still on active duty?
Yes — and you should. Start 12 months before your EAS. At 180 days out, you may be eligible for DOD SkillBridge to work full-time at a civilian company while still receiving military pay. Boeing, Lockheed Martin, and several logistics companies offer SkillBridge positions. At minimum: have your resume ready 6 months out, start networking on LinkedIn 6 months out, apply to federal positions 6 months out (federal hiring is slow), and research which certifications you can start while still in.
What is ALIS/ODIN experience worth to civilian employers?
If you worked in an F-35 squadron with ALIS (Autonomic Logistics Information System) or its replacement ODIN (Operational Data Integrated Network), that experience is highly specific and valuable. The F-35 program is the largest defense acquisition program in history, and Lockheed Martin plus its subcontractors need people who understand the logistics data systems supporting it. This is a niche skill that general supply chain candidates simply do not have. Highlight it prominently on your resume when applying to any company involved in F-35 sustainment.
Salary data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2024. Career data from O*NET OnLine.
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