Loading...
NavyRating: AB
Aviation Boatswain's Mate
The civilian and federal jobs that hire Navy Aviation Boatswain's Mates — with real salaries and the resume that gets callbacks.
Every AB 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 Navy in the first place.
Free · No credit card · Tailored resume in under 5 minutes
$46K–$107K
Salary Range
BLS-verified median salaries
14
Career Paths
14
Companies Hiring
10
Resume Examples
5
Federal GS Series
8
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.
60,000+ resumes built·Success stories every week
Free Sample · Emailed to You
Get a free AB Aviation Boatswain's Mate sample resume
One page, built in our template, with your military experience translated into civilian terms hiring managers and ATS systems read. Use it as a reference for your own. Drop your email and we'll send you the download link.
Free. We'll also send occasional job-search tips. Unsubscribe anytime.
Military Role Overview
Navy Aviation Boatswain's Mates (ABs) are the backbone of carrier flight deck operations — the professionals who launch aircraft off catapults, recover them with arresting gear, fuel them with JP-5, fight fires with AFFF foam systems, and physically move multi-million dollar aircraft around the most dangerous workplace in the Navy. The AB rating splits into three distinct sub-specialties, each with its own identity and colored jersey:
ABE (Launch & Recovery Equipment) — the "Shooters" and green shirts. ABEs operate and maintain steam catapults, EMALS (Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System), Mk 7 arresting gear, and associated launch/recovery equipment. They are responsible for launching every aircraft off the flight deck and catching every one that comes back. A catapult malfunction at the wrong moment is catastrophic, so the margin for error is zero.
ABF (Fuels) — the "Grapes" in purple shirts. ABFs manage JP-5 aviation fuel systems across the entire ship, from below-deck storage tanks through miles of fuel piping to topside fueling stations. They handle fuel receipt, quality testing, transfer operations, and defueling. ABFs also operate AFFF (Aqueous Film-Forming Foam) firefighting systems. Managing millions of gallons of jet fuel on a floating city requires precision and constant vigilance.
ABH (Aircraft Handling) — the yellow shirts (directors) and blue shirts (handlers/tractor drivers). ABHs physically move aircraft on the flight deck and hangar bay using specialized tractors and tow bars. Yellow shirt directors coordinate the intricate choreography of aircraft movement on a crowded flight deck, using hand signals to guide pilots and tractor drivers. One wrong move can put an aircraft into the water or into another aircraft.
All ABs train at Naval Aviation Technical Training Center (NATTC) in Pensacola, Florida, before reporting to fleet assignments aboard aircraft carriers (CVN), amphibious assault ships (LHD/LHA), or Naval Air Station facilities. What makes ABs valuable in the civilian workforce is a combination of extreme safety discipline, heavy equipment operation, fuel systems management, firefighting capability, and the ability to coordinate complex operations in high-stakes environments where mistakes cost lives.
ABs run flight deck operations under conditions civilian aviation never sees — and that maturity translates better than the title suggests. From the federal hiring side, ABs land in 2150 Transportation Operations and 1825 Aviation Safety roles consistently. The flight deck experience IS the resume — the words just have to match. — Brad Tachi, Navy Diver veteran & BMR founder
Security ClearanceNone (standard background investigation)
ASVAB RequirementVE+AR+MK+AS: 184
TrainingNATTC Pensacola, FL — A-School varies by specialty (ABE, ABF, or ABH). Fleet training continues aboard ship with PQS qualifications for specific equipment and watchstations.
Certs Earned in ServiceNAVAIR-specific equipment qualifications (catapult, arresting gear, fueling systems), Shipboard Firefighting (all ABs), HAZMAT awareness/operations, First Aid/CPR, Heavy equipment operation (ABH tractors)
Pay Reality Check
The number that matters when you're deciding what's next: how does civilian pay compare to what you make now?
Navy mid-career
$58K–$82K
E-5 to E-7 total comp (base + BAH + BAS + tax advantage)
Civilian Aviation Boatswain's Mate
$46K–$98K
BLS median across direct-match civilian roles
Federal (GS-9 to GS-13)
$58K–$120K
5 matching GS series + locality pay + step increases
Comparable on average
Civilian pay for Aviation Boatswain's Mates lands within the same range as 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
The honest truth about AB civilian career paths: there is no civilian job called "catapult operator" or "arresting gear technician." The steam catapult and EMALS systems you operated exist nowhere outside the military. But the skills behind those systems — heavy equipment maintenance, hydraulic systems, high-pressure steam, industrial safety, fuel management — translate directly into multiple industries.
ABE paths: The catapult and arresting gear experience translates into heavy industrial equipment maintenance, hydraulic systems technician roles, and industrial machinery operation. Companies that run large hydraulic presses, steam systems, or heavy industrial equipment need people who understand high-pressure mechanical systems and the safety protocols around them. Operating engineers and heavy equipment operators earn a BLS median of $58,710 annually (O*NET 47-2073.00, May 2024), with experienced operators in construction and energy exceeding that significantly.
ABF paths: Fuel systems management is your strongest direct transfer. The petroleum industry, airport fuel farms, pipeline operations, and fuel distribution companies all need people who understand fuel quality control, transfer systems, inventory management, and HAZMAT protocols. Petroleum pump system operators, refinery operators, and gaugers earn a BLS median of $97,540 annually (O*NET 51-8093.00, May 2024). If you managed JP-5 fuel operations across an entire aircraft carrier, you already understand the fundamentals of industrial fuel management at scale.
ABH paths: Aircraft handling experience translates most directly into airport ground operations — ramp management, aircraft marshalling, and ground support equipment (GSE) operation. Airlines and airport service companies need ramp supervisors and ground handlers who understand aircraft movement safety. Aircraft cargo handling supervisors earn a BLS median of $63,940 (O*NET 53-1041.00, May 2024), while airfield operations specialists earn $56,750 (O*NET 53-2022.00, May 2024).
All AB specialties: Every AB is trained in shipboard firefighting and crash/salvage operations. This opens a strong path into civilian firefighting, with a BLS median of $59,530 (O*NET 33-2011.00, May 2024). Fire departments actively value the discipline, physical fitness, and emergency response training that ABs bring. Fire inspectors and investigators earn $78,060 median (O*NET 33-2021.00, May 2024). Beyond firefighting, safety management roles value the AB background — occupational health and safety specialists earn $83,910 median (O*NET 19-5011.00, May 2024) with 6% projected growth.
If you are exploring aviation-adjacent careers, check out the Navy AD (Aviation Machinist's Mate) and Navy AM (Aviation Structural Mechanic) pages for related career paths in aviation maintenance. For firefighting and damage control career crossover, see the Navy DC (Damage Controlman) page.
Civilian Job Title Translations
| Civilian Job Title | Industry | BLS Median Salary | Outlook | Match |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Firefighter O*NET: 33-2011.00 | Government / Fire Protection | $59,530 | Average (3-4%) | strong |
Petroleum Pump System Operator / Refinery Operator O*NET: 51-8093.00 | Oil & Gas / Energy | $97,540 | Little or no change | strong |
Airport Ramp Supervisor / Ground Handler O*NET: 53-1041.00 | Aviation / Transportation | $63,940 | About as fast as average | strong |
Operating Engineer / Heavy Equipment Operator O*NET: 47-2073.00 | Construction / Energy | $58,710 | About as fast as average | strong |
Airfield Operations Specialist O*NET: 53-2022.00 | Aviation / Government | $56,750 | About as fast as average | moderate |
Fire Inspector / Investigator O*NET: 33-2021.00 | Government / Insurance | $78,060 | Faster than average | moderate |
Occupational Health & Safety Specialist O*NET: 19-5011.00 | Multiple Industries | $83,910 | Faster than average (6%) | moderate |
Industrial Truck / Tractor Operator O*NET: 53-7051.00 | Warehousing / Manufacturing | $46,390 | Little or no change | moderate |
Firefighter
Government / Fire Protection
$59,530median
Average (3-4%)
O*NET: 33-2011.00
Petroleum Pump System Operator / Refinery Operator
Oil & Gas / Energy
$97,540median
Little or no change
O*NET: 51-8093.00
Airport Ramp Supervisor / Ground Handler
Aviation / Transportation
$63,940median
About as fast as average
O*NET: 53-1041.00
Operating Engineer / Heavy Equipment Operator
Construction / Energy
$58,710median
About as fast as average
O*NET: 47-2073.00
Airfield Operations Specialist
Aviation / Government
$56,750median
About as fast as average
O*NET: 53-2022.00
Fire Inspector / Investigator
Government / Insurance
$78,060median
Faster than average
O*NET: 33-2021.00
Occupational Health & Safety Specialist
Multiple Industries
$83,910median
Faster than average (6%)
O*NET: 19-5011.00
Industrial Truck / Tractor Operator
Warehousing / Manufacturing
$46,390median
Little or no change
O*NET: 53-7051.00
Companies That Hire This Background
Largest airport ground handling company in the world. Ramp operations, fueling services, and cargo handling. ABH and ABF experience translates directly.
Global ground handling and fueling services. Airport ramp management, aircraft marshalling, and fuel operations at major airports worldwide.
Major airline with dedicated military hiring. Ground operations, ramp supervision, and maintenance positions value AB experience. Atlanta hub and nationwide.
Largest petroleum refiner in the US. Refinery operations, fuel distribution, and pipeline management. Strong match for ABFs with fuel systems experience.
Major refining and marketing company. Refinery operator, fuel terminal, and distribution positions. ABF fuel management experience valued.
Largest energy infrastructure company in North America. Pipeline operations, terminal management, and fuel storage. ABF fuel logistics experience applies directly.
One of the largest construction and engineering firms. Hires veterans for safety management, heavy equipment operations, and project coordination. Global projects.
Global EPC firm with defense and energy projects. Values ABs for safety management, construction oversight, and heavy equipment operations roles.
Largest military shipbuilder in the US. ABEs bring catapult and arresting gear knowledge to shipbuilding and testing roles. Newport News and Ingalls shipyards.
Federal fire departments on military installations. ABs already know the base environment, aircraft types, and AFFF systems. GS-0081 and GS-5803 series positions.
Airfield operations, airport safety, and aviation regulation enforcement. ABH aircraft handling experience translates to FAA oversight roles.
Airport operations and security management. Aviation ground operations experience from ABH creates a strong foundation for TSA supervisory positions.
Continue supporting naval aviation as a civilian. Equipment specialist, logistics, and program management roles. Your AB knowledge of naval aviation systems is a direct advantage.
Ship repair yards in Norfolk, San Diego, Jacksonville, and Hawaii. ABEs bring catapult and arresting gear maintenance knowledge to ship repair and modernization projects.
See a salary you want? Build a resume targeting it.
BMR rewrites your AB experience for any of the civilian roles above — keywords, achievements, and language hiring managers actually scan for.
Free · No credit card · 2 tailored resumes included
Real Navy success story
“I am wrapping up a 21 year Naval career, all of which was working on fighters. I had picked up a job as a contractor for a company on the same base I’ve been at for the last ten years. I submitted that resume while on deployment and it worked great. Thanks again Brad. Dave ”
David· Chief Petty Officer (E-7)· Navy
→ AviationFederal Career Paths
DoD fire departments on military installations are one of the strongest federal landing spots for ABs — especially ABHs with aircraft crash and salvage training. Fleet Readiness Centers, NAVFAC, and Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) also hire civilians into aircraft handling, fueling operations, and airfield management roles. Your AB specialty maps to more GS series than you might expect.
Direct-match GS series for ABs:
- GS-5803 (Fire Protection & Prevention): Municipal and federal firefighter positions. DoD fire departments on military installations are a natural fit — you already know the environment. Department of the Interior, VA Medical Centers, and federal airports all employ firefighters.
- GS-0081 (Fire Protection & Prevention — Administrative): Fire prevention, inspection, and program management. Your crash/salvage and AFFF knowledge directly applies. Leads to fire chief and fire marshal positions.
- GS-2185 (Aircraft Overhaul): Fleet Readiness Centers and depot-level aircraft maintenance facilities. ABEs with arresting gear and catapult maintenance experience can fit here.
- GS-1670 (Equipment Specialist): Equipment testing, evaluation, and maintenance management. Strong match for ABEs who maintained catapults and arresting gear, and ABFs who maintained fuel systems.
- GS-6907 (Warehousing & Stock Handling): Supply chain and warehouse management at military depots. ABHs who managed aircraft movement and hangar bay operations understand large-scale inventory handling and space management.
Broader federal career options:
- GS-0080 (Safety Management): OSHA compliance, workplace safety programs. Every AB's flight deck safety experience translates here. Agencies: DOL, DoD, DOE, VA.
- GS-0301 (Miscellaneous Administration): General management and program coordination. Senior ABs (E-6+) with division leading experience qualify for administrative roles across any federal agency.
- GS-0340 (Program Management): Managing federal programs and contracts. Chief ABs and senior supervisors with collateral duty experience fit here.
- GS-0343 (Management & Program Analysis): Process improvement and organizational analysis. ABs who stood up new programs, wrote procedures, or improved workflows can qualify.
- GS-0346 (Logistics Management): Supply chain, transportation, and distribution management. ABFs managing fuel logistics and ABHs managing aircraft movement operations have direct experience.
- GS-0201 (Human Resources Management): For senior ABs who handled training programs, evaluations, and personnel management as LPOs or division chiefs.
- GS-1101 (General Business & Industry): Business operations in federal agencies. Broad series that values management experience.
- GS-0560 (Budget Analysis): For ABs who managed divisional budgets, tracked expenditures, or handled funding for equipment and training.
- GS-1102 (Contracting): Federal acquisition and procurement. ABs who worked with government contracts or requisitioned equipment through the supply system have foundational knowledge.
- GS-2210 (Information Technology Management): For ABs who cross-trained in IT or managed digital systems. EMALS-era ABEs increasingly work with electronic control systems.
- GS-1712 (Training Instruction): Teaching and curriculum development. Experienced ABs who served as instructors at NATTC or ran training programs aboard ship qualify directly.
TSA and FAA positions: TSA airport operations and FAA airfield management positions value the aviation ground operations experience that ABHs bring. These positions combine aviation knowledge with security and safety management.
Start your federal resume early — at least 6 months before separation. Federal resumes follow different rules than private sector resumes. Build your federal resume here, and check out the Federal Resume Format guide and 10 Federal Job Series for Veterans for details on how to target specific GS series.
GS Series & Position Matches
| GS Series | Federal Job Title | Typical Grades | Match | Explore |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GS-1825 | Aviation Safety | GS-9, GS-11, GS-12 | View Details → | |
| GS-2150 | Transportation Operations | GS-7, GS-9, GS-11 | View Details → | |
| GS-0301 | Miscellaneous Administration and Program | GS-7, GS-9 | View Details → | |
| GS-2152 | Air Traffic Control | GS-9, GS-11 | View Details → | |
| GS-6907 | Materials Handler | WG-5, WG-7, WG-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.
Free · No credit card · Federal + civilian resume formats included
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.
Elevator and Escalator Installer and Repairer
$106,580
Construction Trades(O*NET: 47-4021.00)BLS OEWS May 20245% (Faster than average)
Hydraulic and electro-mechanical lift system troubleshootingCatapult and arresting-gear maintenance under loadLockout-tagout and confined-space safetyPrecision adjustment of high-tension cables and sheaves
ABE catapult and arresting-gear work is built on the same high-tension cable, hydraulic, and electro-mechanical systems that move elevators and escalators, and the safety discipline carries over directly.
How to get there: Enter through a NEIEP (National Elevator Industry Educational Program) apprenticeship; the 4-year program combines paid on-the-job training with classroom instruction and leads to mechanic certification.
Power Distributors and Dispatchers
$107,240
Electric Power Utilities(O*NET: 51-8012.00)BLS OEWS May 2024-10% (Decline, steady replacement openings)
Real-time coordination of high-stakes launch and recovery operationsVoice and signal control across a noisy operational deckLoad and sequencing decisions under time pressureCasualty and emergency response procedures
Directing the controlled flow of aircraft on and off a flight deck is the same real-time, high-consequence dispatch judgment a utility control room demands when balancing the grid.
How to get there: Most distributors start as utility plant or substation operators and move into the control room. Employers train on SCADA systems on the job; an associate degree in electrical or power technology helps.
Chemical Plant and System Operators
$73,540
Chemical Manufacturing(O*NET: 51-8091.00)BLS OEWS May 2024-7% (Decline, steady replacement openings)
JP-5 fuel sampling, contamination testing, and quality controlPump, filtration, and transfer-system operationHazardous-material handling and spill responseReading gauges and process instrumentation
ABF aviation-fuels work is process operation at its core: sampling, filtering, pressure monitoring, and contamination control are the daily tasks of a chemical plant operator in a different industry.
How to get there: Employers hire on process-operations aptitude and train on the specific plant. A community-college process-technology certificate or OSHA HAZWOPER credential shortens the ramp.
Crane and Tower Operators
$66,370
Construction and Heavy Industry(O*NET: 53-7021.00)BLS OEWS May 20241% (Little or no change)
Directing heavy loads in confined, hazardous spaceHand and radio signal communicationSpatial awareness amid moving aircraft and equipmentRigging and load-securing fundamentals
Spotting and moving aircraft inches apart in a crowded deck is the same spatial precision and signal discipline a crane operator uses to place loads safely on a busy site.
How to get there: Earn an NCCCO (National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators) certification after a short training course, then build hours; many start as a rigger or signal person first.
Millwrights
$65,170
Industrial Maintenance(O*NET: 49-9044.00)BLS OEWS May 202413% (Much faster than average)
Installing and aligning heavy mechanical assembliesHydraulic and pneumatic system maintenanceReading mechanical schematics and tolerancesPreventive-maintenance scheduling on deck machinery
Maintaining catapults, elevators, and arresting gear means installing, aligning, and repairing massive mechanical systems, which is exactly what a millwright does across factories and power plants.
How to get there: Enter through a millwright apprenticeship (often via the United Brotherhood of Carpenters) combining paid work and instruction, or a community-college industrial-maintenance program.
Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators
$58,260
Utilities(O*NET: 51-8031.00)BLS OEWS May 2024-7% (Decline, steady replacement openings)
Fluid-system sampling and quality testingPump, valve, and filtration operationLogging readings and maintaining compliance recordsContinuous monitoring of pressure and flow
The fuel-quality sampling, filtration, and pump operation behind aviation fuels translate cleanly to running a treatment plant, where the medium changes but the process-control discipline does not.
How to get there: States license operators by exam in graded tiers; start as a trainee operator and earn the Grade I certification, advancing grades with experience and continuing education.
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.
Free · No credit card · Try unlimited career angles
Skills Translation Guide
If you are staying in aviation ground operations, airport ramp management, or firefighting, your terminology translates fairly directly — hiring managers in those fields understand flight deck operations, AFFF, and aircraft handling. This section is for careers outside of aviation and firefighting, where the hiring manager has no idea what "FOD walkdown" or "yellow shirt" means.
The translations below reframe your AB experience into language that works in safety management, logistics, operations, construction, and other industries where your skills are valuable but your military vocabulary is not. For a broader guide on translating military terms, see 50 Military Terms and Their Civilian Equivalents.
Resume Bullet Examples
Before (Military)
Led daily FOD walkdowns with 30+ personnel across flight deck and catapult tracks, identifying and removing debris that could cause engine damage or personnel injury
After (Civilian)
Led daily pre-operation safety inspections with 30+ team members across the work area, identifying and removing hazards that could cause equipment damage or workplace injuries, maintaining zero-incident safety record
Before (Military)
Directed movement of 40+ aircraft across the flight deck during cyclic operations, coordinating with pilots, tractor drivers, and arresting gear crews using standardized hand signals
After (Civilian)
Coordinated movement of 40+ heavy assets across a congested operations area during peak activity, directing vehicle operators and ground personnel using standardized communication protocols to prevent collisions and maintain continuous workflow
Before (Military)
Served on crash and salvage team responding to flight deck emergencies including aircraft mishaps, fuel spills, and fire events with sub-2-minute response times
After (Civilian)
Served on emergency response team in high-risk industrial facility, responding to equipment incidents, hazardous material spills, and fire events with sub-2-minute deployment times and zero escalated incidents
Before (Military)
Managed receipt, storage, and distribution of 2.5M gallons JP-5 aviation fuel. Conducted daily quality control testing per MIL-STD specifications. Maintained 100% accountability during quarterly audits
After (Civilian)
Managed inventory of $8M+ in regulated liquid commodities across multiple storage facilities. Conducted daily quality control testing per federal specifications. Achieved 100% accountability during quarterly compliance audits with zero discrepancies
Before (Military)
Performed preventive and corrective maintenance on Mk 7 Mod 3 arresting gear and C13 steam catapult systems, including hydraulic cylinder rebuilds, steam valve overhauls, and wire rope inspections
After (Civilian)
Performed preventive and corrective maintenance on high-pressure hydraulic and pneumatic industrial systems, including hydraulic cylinder rebuilds, valve overhauls, and cable/wire rope inspections, maintaining 98% equipment uptime
Before (Military)
Operated and maintained AFFF fire suppression systems including foam proportioning stations, distribution piping, and hangar bay sprinkler systems. Conducted monthly system tests per NSTM requirements
After (Civilian)
Operated and maintained industrial fire suppression systems including foam proportioning equipment, distribution networks, and overhead sprinkler systems. Conducted monthly testing and preventive maintenance per NFPA standards
Before (Military)
Conducted pre-launch briefs for catapult crew covering equipment status, wind conditions, abort criteria, and emergency procedures for each launch cycle
After (Civilian)
Delivered pre-operation safety briefings covering equipment readiness, environmental conditions, emergency procedures, and individual role assignments, ensuring all team members acknowledged hazards and protocols before commencing operations
Before (Military)
Qualified operator on MD-3 and SD-2 aircraft spotting tractors. Towed and spotted 60+ aircraft types including F/A-18, E-2C, and MH-60 in tight flight deck and hangar bay configurations
After (Civilian)
Qualified operator on multiple heavy industrial vehicles. Positioned and transported 60+ high-value assets ($30M+ each) in confined spaces, maintaining zero damage incidents through precision operation and effective communication with spotters
Before (Military)
Completed PQS qualifications for 8 catapult watch stations including topside petty officer, safety observer, and control console operator. Qualified 15 junior personnel through the PQS program
After (Civilian)
Completed competency-based certification programs for 8 operational positions, passing both written assessments and practical evaluations. Trained and certified 15 junior team members through the structured qualification program
Before (Military)
Maintained hangar bay spotting board tracking 30+ aircraft across 3 maintenance zones. Coordinated aircraft movements for scheduled maintenance, unplanned repairs, and flight schedule requirements
After (Civilian)
Managed facility asset tracking system monitoring 30+ high-value units across 3 operational zones. Coordinated asset movements to support scheduled maintenance, unplanned work orders, and production schedule requirements, optimizing space utilization to 95%+
Get bullets like these auto-generated for your resume.
BMR turns your AB duties and accomplishments into civilian bullets that match the job you're applying for — no manual translation, no rewriting.
Free · No credit card · Tailored to each job posting
Certifications by Career Path
Which certifications you need depends on where you're headed. Find your target career path below.
Aviation Operations
AAAE Certified Member (C.M.)
RecommendedAmerican Association of Airport Executives
Cost: $400 - $800Time: 3-6 months study
Industry credential for airport management professionals. Strong value for ABHs targeting airport ramp operations and ground handling supervisory roles.
Emergency Management
CEM (Certified Emergency Manager)
RecommendedIAEM
Cost: $250 - $375 examTime: 3-6 months study
Formalizes crisis management experience for government emergency management positions. AB crash/salvage and fire response experience counts toward experience requirements.
FEMA Professional Development Series
BeneficialFEMA Emergency Management Institute
Cost: Free (online)Time: 2-4 weeks
Free online courses that build credentials. Complete IS-100, IS-200, IS-700, IS-800 at minimum. Good starting point before CEM certification.
Emergency Medical Services
API 653 (Tank Inspector)
RecommendedAmerican Petroleum Institute
Cost: $500 - $1,500 (exam + prep)Time: 2-4 months studyGI Bill Eligible
Industry standard for aboveground storage tank inspection. Direct relevance for ABFs who managed JP-5 storage tanks. Opens doors at refineries, fuel terminals, and pipeline companies.
API 570 (Piping Inspector)
RecommendedAmerican Petroleum Institute
Cost: $500 - $1,500 (exam + prep)Time: 2-4 months studyGI Bill Eligible
Piping inspection certification for the petroleum industry. ABFs who maintained fuel piping systems aboard carriers have directly relevant experience.
API 1169 (Pipeline Inspector)
BeneficialAmerican Petroleum Institute
Cost: $500 - $1,200 (exam + prep)Time: 2-3 months studyGI Bill Eligible
Pipeline construction inspection credential. Opens doors in the growing pipeline industry. Pairs well with ABF fuel systems background.
Federal Employment
Federal Resume + USAJobs Profile
RequiredN/A
Cost: Free (build at bestmilitaryresume.com)Time: 1-2 hours
Federal resumes follow different rules than private sector — 2 pages max, specific formatting. Start 6 months before separation. Veterans' Preference gives you 5-10 extra points.
Fire Service
NFPA Firefighter I/II
RequiredNational Fire Protection Association
Cost: $2,000 - $5,000 (academy)Time: 12-16 weeks (fire academy)GI Bill Eligible
Standard credential for career firefighters. Your shipboard firefighting training gives you a head start but does not substitute for civilian fire academy. Many academies are GI Bill-approved.
EMT-Basic / Paramedic
RequiredNREMT
Cost: $1,000 - $3,000Time: 3-6 months (EMT) / 12-18 months (Paramedic)GI Bill Eligible
Many fire departments require EMT at minimum. Paramedic certification opens more positions and higher pay. GI Bill covers most programs.
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
Top supply chain credential. ABFs managing fuel logistics and ABHs managing aircraft movement logistics have qualifying experience. 18% growth in logistics field.
Project Management
PMP (Project Management Professional)
BeneficialPMI
Cost: $400 - $600 examTime: 3-6 months studyGI Bill Eligible
Formalizes the planning and coordination skills used daily in AB operations. Senior ABs with documented project management experience may qualify for PMP directly.
Safety & EHS
OSHA 30-Hour (General Industry or Construction)
RequiredOSHA
Cost: $150 - $300Time: 4 days (available online)
Baseline safety certification required by most industrial employers. Available online. Your AB safety training makes this straightforward.
CSP (Certified Safety Professional)
RecommendedBoard of Certified Safety Professionals
Cost: $300 - $500 examTime: 3-6 months studyGI Bill Eligible
The gold standard in occupational safety. Your AB flight deck safety experience counts toward the experience requirement. Opens $80K+ safety management roles.
HAZWOPER 40-Hour
BeneficialOSHA
Cost: $150 - $500Time: 5 days
Required for hazardous waste site work and environmental response. Your HAZMAT training aboard ship provides a foundation but does not substitute for HAZWOPER.
Got a cert? Don't bury it. List it the right way.
The wrong placement can sink an otherwise strong application. BMR knows where each cert ranks, what to call it, and how to frame it for ATS keyword matching and hiring manager attention.
Free · No credit card · Built around your real certs and clearance
Transition Resources
For Staying in Aviation, Firefighting, or Fuel Systems
SkillBridge Programs: Several fire departments, airport operators, and petroleum companies participate in DOD SkillBridge, allowing ABs to work civilian jobs during the last 180 days of service while still collecting military pay. Search the SkillBridge database for current openings. Check with your command career counselor early — SkillBridge slots fill quickly.
International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF): The IAFF is the primary union for career firefighters. Many local chapters actively recruit veterans. If you are targeting fire departments, connecting with your local IAFF chapter is a smart first step.
National Fire Protection Association (NFPA): The NFPA sets the standards for fire codes and firefighter training. Their certifications (Firefighter I/II, Fire Inspector, Fire Investigator) are the industry standard. Your shipboard firefighting training gives you a head start.
American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE): For ABHs targeting airport operations, the AAAE offers the Certified Member (C.M.) credential and networking opportunities in airport management. Your aircraft movement experience on the flight deck translates directly to ramp operations.
American Petroleum Institute (API): For ABFs targeting petroleum industry roles, API certifications are the industry standard. API 653 (Tank Inspector), API 570 (Piping Inspector), and API 1169 (Pipeline Inspector) open doors in the oil and gas industry.
For Careers Outside of Aviation and Firefighting
Safety & EHS Careers: Start with OSHA 30-Hour (available online, $150-300). For the serious career move, target the CSP (Certified Safety Professional) from the Board of Certified Safety Professionals. Your AB safety experience counts toward the experience requirement. AB flight deck safety discipline is exactly what EHS managers need.
Project Management: The PMP certification (PMI) formalizes the project coordination skills you used daily. Senior ABs who managed maintenance schedules, coordinated flight ops, or led division-level projects may already have enough documented hours to qualify.
Federal Employment (USAJobs): Create your USAJobs profile immediately — do not wait until separation. Use the "Veterans" filter. Key agencies for ABs: DoD fire departments, FAA, TSA, NAVAIR, NAVSEA, and VA Medical Centers. Federal resumes are 2 pages max. Build yours here.
Veteran Networking: American Corporate Partners (ACP) provides free mentorship from corporate executives. You get paired with someone in your target industry. ACP is legitimate and completely free for veterans.
Education Benefits: Your GI Bill covers professional certifications and degree programs. Many certification exam fees and prep courses are eligible. Check the GI Bill Comparison Tool to verify program approval before enrolling.
For more on the certifications that give veterans the fastest ROI, read Best Certifications for Veterans in 2026 and Best Careers for Veterans in 2026.
BMR Career Resources
Hidden Military Skills Civilians Don't Know About | Military-to-Civilian Cover Letter Template | All Military Career Transition Pages | 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 AB 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
Which AB specialty (ABE, ABF, or ABH) has the best civilian job transfer?
ABF (Fuels) has the most direct civilian transfer because fuel systems management translates straight into the petroleum industry, airport fuel operations, and pipeline work. Petroleum pump system operators earn a BLS median of $97,540 (May 2024). ABH (Aircraft Handling) transfers well into airport ramp operations and ground support. ABE (Launch & Recovery) has the least direct transfer since catapults and arresting gear are military-only — but the heavy equipment, hydraulic systems, and mechanical maintenance skills behind those systems are valuable in industrial settings.
What do civilian firefighters earn, and is it a good path for ABs?
According to BLS May 2024 data, the median annual wage for firefighters is $59,530 (O*NET 33-2011.00), with the top 10% earning over $101,330. Fire inspectors and investigators earn a median of $78,060 (33-2021.00). Firefighting is one of the strongest paths for ABs because every AB receives shipboard firefighting and AFFF training. Many fire departments value military fire training, and DoD fire departments on military installations are a particularly natural fit since you already know the environment.
Can ABFs work in the petroleum industry without additional certifications?
Your Navy fuel systems experience gives you a strong foundation, but many petroleum industry employers want to see API certifications. API 653 (Tank Inspector), API 570 (Piping Inspector), and API 1169 (Pipeline Inspector) are the main credentials. Some employers will hire based on military experience and support you in getting certified on the job. The GI Bill can cover many certification prep programs. Entry-level fuel handling positions may not require API certs, but advancement into supervisory roles almost always does.
Do ABs typically have a security clearance?
No. The AB rating requires a standard background investigation (National Agency Check), not a security clearance. Some specific assignments may require higher clearance levels, but the standard AB does not hold a Secret or Top Secret clearance. This means you will not have the clearance advantage that some other ratings carry into the job market — but it also means your career options are not limited to cleared positions.
How does Veterans Preference work for federal jobs?
Veterans Preference gives you 5 or 10 extra points on federal hiring assessments. Disabled veterans receive 10 points. You need your DD-214 (Member 4 copy) and SF-15 form. Some federal positions use Direct Hire Authority, which can bypass normal competitive processes. Veterans Preference is most powerful at GS-11 and below. Start your federal resume at bestmilitaryresume.com — federal resumes follow different rules than private sector resumes, and getting the format right matters.
Can I use the GI Bill for firefighter training or certifications?
Yes. Many fire academies and certification programs are GI Bill-approved. Firefighter I/II, EMT/Paramedic, and fire science degree programs are commonly covered. OSHA certifications and some API certifications also qualify. Always verify current VA approval status using the GI Bill Comparison Tool before enrolling — approval status can change. Some programs offer Yellow Ribbon or additional funding for veterans.
What career change options exist if I want to leave aviation entirely?
Many former ABs transition into careers that have nothing to do with aviation. Safety management is a strong path — occupational health and safety specialists earn a BLS median of $83,910 (May 2024) with 6% growth. Logistics and supply chain management (BLS median $80,880, 18% growth) values the planning and coordination skills you developed. Operations management ($102,950 median) is an option for senior ABs with leadership experience. Construction and building inspection ($72,120 median) values the systematic inspection discipline ABs develop. See the Career Change Paths section for specific transition guidance.
Is airport ground operations a good career for former ABHs?
Yes — ABH experience is one of the closest matches to civilian airport ramp operations. Airlines, ground handling companies (Swissport, Menzies, dnata), and airport authorities hire ramp supervisors, ground support coordinators, and airfield operations specialists. Aircraft cargo handling supervisors earn a BLS median of $63,940 (May 2024). Your experience directing aircraft movement with hand signals, driving aircraft tractors, and coordinating ramp operations translates almost directly. AAAE certification can strengthen your candidacy for airport management roles.
How do I explain flight deck experience on a resume for a non-aviation job?
Focus on the transferable skills, not the aviation-specific equipment. Instead of writing about catapults and arresting gear, describe managing high-risk industrial equipment operations, coordinating multi-team operations under time pressure, or maintaining zero-defect safety records in hazardous environments. Quantify everything: number of operations supervised, dollar value of equipment managed, team sizes, safety records. Build your resume at bestmilitaryresume.com — the platform translates military experience into civilian language automatically.
Where are the best job markets for former ABs?
It depends on your target career. For firefighting: every metro area hires, but DoD fire departments near military installations offer the most natural fit. For petroleum/fuel: Gulf Coast (Houston, New Orleans), Midwest refinery regions, and pipeline corridors. For airport operations: major hub airports (Atlanta, Dallas, Chicago, Denver, LA). For federal jobs: DC Metro area, Norfolk, San Diego, and Jacksonville have the highest concentrations of DoD and federal positions. For safety management: any major industrial area — this field is not geographically limited.
Salary data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2024. Career data from O*NET OnLine.
Free for every veteran
Translate your AB Aviation Boatswain's Mate experience into a resume that gets callbacks
Stop rewriting from scratch every time you apply. BMR turns your military experience into civilian and federal resumes — tailored to each job.
What you get — all free:
2
Tailored resumes
AI-rewritten for each job posting
2
Cover letters
Matched to the role
∞
LinkedIn optimization
Profile rewrite for civilian recruiters
∞
Elevator pitch generator
For interviews and networking
2
Company research reports
Know who you're applying to
∞
Job tracker
Manage every application in one place
Start My Free Resume
Free · No credit card · 90 seconds to sign upBuilt by a Navy Diver veteran. More than 60,000 resumes built for the military community.