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That is Marines MOS 6672. Civilian jobs, federal paths, and how the work reads on a resume.
What is in this guide
What the translation looks like
How it reads in service
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
How a hiring manager reads it
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
Roles this background maps to
Median pay, BLS OEWS May 2024
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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
The number that decides most of this: how does civilian pay compare to what the paycheck looks like now?
Marines mid-career
$58K to $82K
E-5 to E-7 total comp: base plus BAH, BAS and the tax advantage.
Civilian Aviation Supply Specialist
$46K to $102K
BLS median across the direct-match civilian roles on this page.
Federal, GS-9 to GS-13
$58K to $120K
5 matching GS series, plus locality pay and step increases.
About 11% higher on average
Civilian roles for Aviation Supply Specialists pay about $8K more than mid-career enlisted total comp.
Military comp is approximate and moves with location and dependents. Civilian is the BLS median. Federal includes locality pay. The real number depends on duty station, family status, GS step and overtime.
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 | Industry | BLS median salary | Outlook | Match |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LogisticianO*NET 13-1081.00 | Aviation / Defense / Manufacturing | $80,880 | 17% (much faster than average) | strong |
| Aviation Parts Planner / Materials CoordinatorO*NET 13-1081.00 | Aviation MRO / Airlines | $80,880 | 17% (much faster than average) | strong |
| Production, Planning, and Expediting ClerkO*NET 43-5061.00 | Manufacturing / Aerospace / Defense | $46,120 | -6% (declining overall, but 108K+ annual openings) | strong |
| Purchasing AgentO*NET 13-1028.00 | Aerospace / Defense / Manufacturing | $75,650 | 2% (as fast as average) | moderate |
| Transportation, Storage, and Distribution ManagerO*NET 11-3071.00 | Logistics / Transportation / Warehousing | $102,010 | 7% (faster than average) | moderate |
| Inventory Analyst / Demand PlannerO*NET 13-1081.00 | Aerospace / Manufacturing / Retail | $80,880 | 17% (much faster than average) | strong |
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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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:
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.
| Series | Federal job title | Typical grades | Match | Explore |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GS-2050 | Supply Cataloging | GS-7, GS-9, GS-11 | 5 of 5 | View details |
| GS-1670 | Equipment Services | GS-9, GS-11, GS-12 | 4 of 5 | View details |
| GS-2010 | Inventory Management | GS-7, GS-9, GS-11 | 4 of 5 | View details |
| GS-2030 | Distribution Facilities and Storage Management | GS-7, GS-9, GS-11 | 4 of 5 | View details |
| GS-0301 | Miscellaneous Administration and Program | GS-7, GS-9 | 3 of 5 | View details |
Federal raters match your record against the announcement's specialized experience statement. BMR writes the federal format for any GS series above, with the hours per week and supervisor detail a rater looks for.
Free to start. Federal and private sector formats included.
Not everyone stays in a related field. These paths run on the transferable half of the job: leadership, risk, logistics, planning.
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.
Transfers: Reconciling accounts and balancing records, Tracking funds against a budget, Catching and correcting discrepancies, Documentation accuracy under audit.
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.
BLS OEWS May 2024 · -1% or lower (Decline)
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.
Transfers: Applying detailed rules to financial documents, Accuracy with figures and deadlines, Organizing and verifying source records, Explaining requirements to non-experts.
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.
BLS OEWS May 2024 · 5% to 6% (Faster than average)
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.
Transfers: Reviewing financial records for accuracy, Verifying documentation against requirements, Managing accounts and case files, Customer-facing problem solving.
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.
BLS OEWS May 2024 · 1% to 2% (Slower than average)
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.
Transfers: Processing transactions against strict rules, Records accuracy and document control, Verifying entitlements and documentation, Resolving exceptions case by case.
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.
BLS OEWS May 2024 · -1% or lower (Decline)
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.
Transfers: Maintaining accurate records in a database system, Compliance with documentation standards, Coding and classifying information precisely, Protecting sensitive data.
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.
BLS OEWS May 2024 · 7% or higher (Much faster than average)
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.
Transfers: Verifying documentation against eligibility rules, Managing case files and accounts, Accurate data entry into government systems, Explaining requirements to applicants.
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.
BLS OEWS May 2024 · 1% to 2% (Slower than average)
The skills behind the specialty carry further than the specialty. BMR rewrites your bullets for any of the paths above without making it sound like you have never done the work.
Free to start. Try as many angles as you want.
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.
Before, in service
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, on the resume
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, in service
Processed 150+ monthly requisitions through R-Supply and NALCOMIS for aircraft maintenance support, prioritizing mission-critical orders and tracking delivery status
After, on the resume
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, in service
Maintained 87% aircraft readiness rate for 12-aircraft squadron through proactive parts forecasting, vendor coordination, and critical component expediting
After, on the resume
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, in service
Coordinated component inductions and RFI returns with IMA, reducing average repair turnaround from 14 to 9 days through improved communication and tracking
After, on the resume
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, in service
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, on the resume
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, in service
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, on the resume
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, in service
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, on the resume
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, in service
Maintained HAZMAT storage facility for aviation consumables including hydraulic fluids, sealants, and batteries per NAVAIR requirements, conducting weekly inspections and maintaining MSDS documentation
After, on the resume
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, in service
Briefed squadron CO and maintenance officer weekly on supply status, AWP impact on readiness, and open requisition status for 12-aircraft detachment
After, on the resume
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, in service
Operated ALIS for F-35B squadron supply operations, managing component tracking, automated fault reporting, and sustainment data for 16-aircraft fleet
After, on the resume
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
BMR turns your 6672 duties and accomplishments into civilian bullets aimed at the job you are applying for. No manual translation.
Free to start. Tailored to each posting.
Which ones you need depends on where you are headed.
RecommendedCost Free (online)Time 2-4 weeksFree online courses that build emergency management credentials. Good for 6672s interested in federal or state emergency management positions. Complete while still on active duty.
RecommendedCost $250 - $375 examTime 3-6 months studyIndustry-recognized emergency management credential. Requires a combination of education, experience, and training. Government agencies are the primary employers.
RecommendedCost Free (build at bestmilitaryresume.com)Time 1-2 hoursNot 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.
RecommendedCost $1,500 - $2,500 (exam + materials)Time 3-6 months studyGI Bill eligibleThe 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.
RecommendedCost $1,200 - $2,000 (exam + materials)Time 3-6 months studyGI Bill eligibleFocused on production and inventory management — directly relevant to 6672 repairable component management and demand forecasting experience.
RecommendedCost $150 - $300 per examTime 2-4 weeks studyGI Bill eligibleEntry-level certifications that validate logistics knowledge. Good stepping stone if pursuing higher certifications. Can be completed quickly while still on active duty.
RecommendedCost $300 - $500Time 2-4 monthsGI Bill eligibleProcess 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.
RecommendedCost $250 - $400Time 2-3 months studyValidates management skills for those transitioning into operations leadership roles. Useful when military leadership experience needs a civilian-recognized credential.
RecommendedCost $400 - $600 exam feeTime 3-6 months studyGI Bill eligibleGold 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.
RecommendedCost $250 - $400 exam feeTime 2-3 months studyGI Bill eligibleEntry-level PM certification for those who do not yet meet PMP experience requirements. Good bridge certification while building civilian project management hours.
RecommendedCost $400 - $600 (member/non-member)Time 2-4 months studyGI Bill eligibleRelevant for 6672s targeting QA roles in aerospace and defense. Understanding of audit processes and documentation accuracy from aviation supply translates directly.
RecommendedCost $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.
RecommendedCost $300 - $500 exam feeTime 3-6 months studyGI Bill eligibleThe most respected safety certification. Your HAZMAT handling and aviation safety compliance experience counts toward the experience requirement.
RecommendedCost $150 - $500Time 5 daysRequired for hazardous waste site workers. Relevant for 6672s who handled aviation HAZMAT and want to transition into environmental health and safety roles.
Placement decides whether a screener ever sees it. BMR knows where each one ranks, what to call it, and how to frame it.
Free to start. Built around your real certs and clearance.
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.
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.
Military to Supply Chain Management: Career Guide | Military to Logistics Management: Career Guide | Military Logistics to Civilian Supply Chain | Build Your Resume Free
Most people do this backwards: wait for terminal leave, then panic. This is the sequence that works. Already out? Same plan, day one is today.
Days 0 to 30
Days 30 to 60
Days 60 to 90
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2024. Career data from O*NET OnLine.
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