Marine 0313 LAV Crewman to Civilian: Your Complete Career Transition Roadmap (With Salary Data)
Real career options for Marine 0313 LAV Crewman transitioning to civilian life. Includes salary ranges $45K-$95K+, required certifications, vehicle operations and mechanical skills translation.
Bottom Line Up Front
0313 LAV Crewman brings a unique combination of vehicle operations, mechanical maintenance, weapons systems, and tactical operations experience—skills that translate directly to heavy equipment operation, diesel mechanics, CDL trucking, law enforcement, and security. Realistic first-year salaries range from $45,000-$65,000 for entry-level positions, with experienced professionals hitting $75,000-$95,000+ in specialized mechanical roles, CDL operations, or law enforcement. Your LAV experience gives you dual pathways: the mechanical/vehicle operations side or the tactical/law enforcement side. Pick your lane and run with it.
Let's address the elephant in the room
Every 0313 who starts researching civilian careers hears the same thing: "LAV Crewman? What's that?" Most civilians have no clue what you did. HR departments see "light armored vehicle" and their eyes glaze over.
Here's what they're missing: you operated and maintained an eight-wheeled, 25mm cannon-equipped reconnaissance vehicle in combat conditions.
You didn't just drive around. You:
- Operated complex armored reconnaissance vehicles in high-threat environments
- Performed first echelon maintenance on diesel-powered vehicles worth millions
- Maintained weapons systems including 25mm chain gun and machine guns
- Executed reconnaissance and security missions requiring tactical judgment
- Worked as part of a crew under extreme pressure
- Troubleshot mechanical and weapons system failures in the field
- Maintained accountability for vehicles, weapons, and equipment
- Obtained and maintained government vehicle operator licenses
That's heavy equipment operation, diesel mechanics, gunnery, tactical operations, and leadership. Those skills are valuable. You just need to translate them into terms civilians understand and target industries that need what you bring.
Best civilian career paths for 0313 LAV Crewman
Let's get specific. Here are the fields where LAV Crewmen consistently land, with real 2024-2025 salary data.
Heavy equipment operator (strong match)
Civilian job titles:
- Heavy equipment operator (excavators, bulldozers, loaders)
- Construction equipment operator
- Crane operator
- Mining equipment operator
- Site supervisor / equipment coordinator
Salary ranges:
- Entry-level operator: $45,000-$55,000
- Experienced operator (3-5 years): $58,000-$70,000
- Specialized equipment (cranes): $65,000-$85,000
- Heavy equipment operator with CDL: $62,000-$95,000
- Site supervisor: $70,000-$90,000+
What translates directly:
- Operating complex machinery with precision
- Pre-operation inspections and safety checks
- Situational awareness in dynamic environments
- Working in all weather conditions
- Equipment maintenance and troubleshooting
- Following safety protocols and regulations
- Reading technical manuals and schematics
Certifications needed:
- OSHA 10 or 30-hour construction safety ($100-300, 1-3 days)
- Heavy equipment operator certification (varies by state, some employers provide)
- Equipment-specific certifications (NCCCO for cranes, $300-600)
- CDL Class A or B (highly recommended, opens more opportunities)
- Rigger certification (for crane operators, $500-1,000)
Reality check: Heavy equipment operators are in high demand across construction, mining, and infrastructure projects. Your experience operating an LAV—a complex vehicle requiring precision control—translates well to operating excavators, bulldozers, and other equipment.
Entry pay isn't spectacular, but experienced operators make solid money. Union jobs pay better and offer benefits. Getting your CDL significantly increases your opportunities and earning potential.
The work is physical, outdoors in all weather, and can be seasonal in some regions. But demand is consistent, and skilled operators are always needed.
Best for: 0313s who enjoyed the vehicle operations side of LAV work and want to stay in the operator seat.
CDL truck driver / heavy haul operator
Civilian job titles:
- CDL Class A truck driver (OTR, regional, local)
- Heavy haul / oversized load driver
- Tanker driver (hazmat)
- Equipment transport driver
- Armored car driver
Salary ranges:
- CDL Class A entry-level: $45,000-$55,000
- OTR experienced driver: $65,000-$85,000
- Heavy haul / specialized: $70,000-$95,000
- Local delivery (home daily): $55,000-$70,000
- Owner-operator: $120,000-$140,000 (after expenses)
What translates directly:
- Operating large vehicles safely
- Government motor vehicle licensing experience
- Pre-trip inspections and maintenance checks
- Long hours and variable schedules
- Navigation and route planning
- Maintaining logs and documentation
- Situational awareness in traffic
Certifications needed:
- CDL Class A (required, $3,000-7,000 for training, 3-8 weeks)
- Endorsements (tanker, hazmat, doubles/triples as needed)
- Medical card (DOT physical, $100-150, every 2 years)
- TWIC card (for some jobs, $125, allows port access)
Reality check: CDL Class A opens immediate job opportunities. Trucking companies are desperate for drivers. You can start earning $45K-55K right away, with quick progression to $65K-85K as you gain experience.
Over-the-road (OTR) jobs pay more but you're away from home for weeks at a time. Local/regional jobs pay less but you're home more often. Heavy haul and specialized transport pay the most but require additional skills and experience.
Your LAV experience—operating a complex vehicle, conducting pre-operation checks, maintaining logs—gives you a foundation. The GI Bill can cover CDL training in many cases.
Best for: 0313s who want immediate employment with decent pay and don't mind long hours driving.
Diesel mechanic / heavy equipment technician
Civilian job titles:
- Diesel mechanic / technician
- Heavy equipment mechanic
- Fleet maintenance technician
- Mobile diesel mechanic
- Construction equipment technician
Salary ranges:
- Entry-level diesel mechanic: $40,000-$50,000
- Experienced mechanic (3-5 years): $55,000-$70,000
- ASE certified diesel tech: $68,000-$85,000
- Master technician / shop supervisor: $75,000-$95,000+
- Mobile/field service tech: $70,000-$90,000
What translates directly:
- First echelon vehicle maintenance
- Troubleshooting mechanical and electrical systems
- Diesel engine knowledge and experience
- Hydraulic and pneumatic systems
- Reading technical manuals and schematics
- Tool accountability and shop safety
- Working under pressure with deadlines
Certifications needed:
- ASE certifications (Automotive Service Excellence, $39-60 per test, multiple tests)
- Trade school or apprenticeship (6 months to 2 years, covered by GI Bill)
- Manufacturer-specific certifications (Caterpillar, John Deere, etc.)
- OSHA safety certifications
- CDL (helpful but not always required)
Reality check: Your LAV maintenance experience is a solid foundation, but civilian diesel work is more in-depth. You'll need additional training through trade school or an apprenticeship to get up to speed on diagnostic tools, computer systems, and modern diesel engines.
Entry pay is modest, but ASE certifications significantly boost your earning potential. Certified diesel techs are in high demand—vehicles, heavy equipment, generators, and marine engines all need diesel mechanics.
The work is physical, dirty, and often outdoors. But it's stable, demand is consistent, and you can't outsource mechanical work overseas.
Best for: 0313s who enjoyed the maintenance side of LAV work and want to build technical mechanical skills.
Law enforcement (tactical background applies)
Civilian job titles:
- Police officer (municipal, county, state)
- Deputy sheriff
- State trooper
- Federal law enforcement (CBP, ICE, USMS)
- SWAT team member (with experience)
Salary ranges:
- Entry-level municipal police: $45,000-$62,000
- State trooper: $50,000-$68,000
- Federal agent (GS-7 to GS-9 entry): $52,000-$72,000
- Experienced officer (5+ years): $65,000-$85,000
- SWAT / specialized units: $75,000-$95,000+
What translates directly:
- Weapons systems proficiency (25mm, 7.62mm machine guns)
- Tactical operations and mission planning
- Working as part of a crew under stress
- Rules of engagement and use of force judgment
- Security patrols and reconnaissance
- Report writing and documentation
- Shift work and irregular schedules
Certifications needed:
- Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) certification (4-6 months academy, usually after hire)
- Associate's degree (increasingly required or strongly preferred)
- Driver's license (clean record)
- Physical fitness standards (you'll pass easily)
Reality check: Your LAV Crewman experience combines vehicle operations with tactical weapons systems and reconnaissance missions. That gives you a unique profile for law enforcement—especially specialized units like SWAT, K-9, or tactical response teams.
The hiring process is long: background checks, polygraph, psychological evaluation, medical screening. Plan on 6-12 months from application to academy start.
Veteran preference gives you a significant advantage. Many departments actively recruit veterans, especially those with combat arms experience.
Best for: 0313s who want to use the tactical side of LAV experience in law enforcement with room for specialization.
Security (armed and contract)
Civilian job titles:
- Armed security officer
- Security supervisor / operations manager
- Government facility security
- Armored car driver/guard
- Corporate security specialist
Salary ranges:
- Entry-level armed security: $35,000-$45,000
- Security supervisor: $48,000-$62,000
- Government facility security: $50,000-$70,000
- Armored car driver/guard: $45,000-$60,000
- Corporate security manager: $70,000-$90,000
What translates directly:
- Weapons proficiency
- Security patrol procedures
- Access control and perimeter security
- Threat assessment and situational awareness
- Emergency response and crisis management
- Working with security systems and technology
Certifications needed:
- State security guard license ($100-300, 1-2 weeks)
- Armed security certification (firearms qualification)
- CDL (for armored car positions)
- First aid/CPR
- Security clearance (if you have one, leverage it)
Reality check: Entry-level armed security doesn't pay well. It's a stepping stone. But it's immediate employment while you pursue other certifications or wait for better opportunities.
Armored car work (Brinks, Loomis, Garda) pays better and values your weapons proficiency and vehicle operations experience. Requires CDL and clean background.
Government facility security (federal buildings, military installations) pays better and offers stability. Your clearance (if active) is a major asset.
Best for: 0313s who need immediate income while pursuing other career paths or building credentials.
Federal government positions
Civilian job titles:
- Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer
- TSA officer / supervisor
- VA police officer
- Federal protective service officer
- DoD vehicle operations / logistics specialist
Salary ranges:
- TSA (entry level): $38,000-$47,000
- CBP officer (entry): $52,000-$72,000
- Federal vehicle operator (GS-7 to GS-9): $52,000-$72,000
- VA police officer: $50,000-$70,000
- With locality pay and overtime: $70,000-$90,000+
What translates directly:
- Government motor vehicle licensing
- Security protocols and procedures
- Following federal regulations
- Working with diverse populations
- Attention to detail and accountability
- Shift work and operational readiness
Certifications needed:
- Federal background check and clearance
- U.S. citizenship (required)
- Role-specific training (provided after hire)
- CDL (for some vehicle operations roles)
Reality check: Federal jobs offer job security, excellent benefits, pension eligibility, and clear pay progression through the GS scale. Veteran preference (5-10 points) significantly improves your hiring chances.
The hiring process is slow—6-12 months is common. Federal background checks are thorough. Be patient.
Your government motor vehicle licensing from LAV operations gives you a leg up for federal vehicle operations and logistics positions. Your security experience applies to law enforcement roles.
Best for: 0313s who want federal benefits, job security, and a clear career progression path.
Skills translation table (for your resume)
Stop writing "LAV Crewman" on your resume. Civilians have no idea what that means. Here's how to translate:
| Military Skill | Civilian Translation |
|---|---|
| LAV driver/operator | Operated complex armored vehicles requiring precision control and navigation |
| LAV crew member | Coordinated with 3-person crew to execute reconnaissance missions |
| First echelon maintenance | Performed preventive maintenance and troubleshooting on diesel vehicles |
| 25mm chain gun operator | Operated weapons systems requiring technical proficiency and safety protocols |
| Pre-combat inspections | Conducted pre-operation safety inspections on vehicles and equipment |
| Convoy operations | Led/participated in vehicle convoys requiring navigation and communication |
| Government vehicle license | Licensed operator of government motor vehicles up to 30,000+ lbs |
| Tactical operations | Executed reconnaissance and security missions in high-threat environments |
| Equipment accountability | Maintained accountability for vehicles, weapons, and equipment valued at $3M+ |
| Technical manuals | Referenced technical documentation for maintenance and troubleshooting |
Use active verbs: Operated, Maintained, Coordinated, Executed, Inspected, Troubleshot, Navigated.
Use numbers: "Operated 12-ton armored vehicle," "Maintained $3M+ in equipment," "Conducted 200+ reconnaissance missions."
Drop the acronyms. No civilian knows what LAV-25, TM, or PMCS means. Spell it out in plain English.
Certifications that actually matter
Here's what's worth your time and GI Bill benefits:
High priority (get these first):
CDL Class A - Opens doors to trucking, heavy equipment operation, armored car work, and many other vehicle-related careers. Training costs $3,000-7,000 but is covered by many GI Bill programs. Time: 3-8 weeks. Starting salary: $45K-55K immediately.
Heavy equipment operator certification - Formal training in operating construction equipment (excavators, bulldozers, loaders). Many programs available, some covered by GI Bill. Cost: $3,000-10,000. Time: 4-12 weeks.
ASE certifications (Automotive Service Excellence) - Industry-standard certifications for diesel mechanics. Multiple tests available (diesel engines, brakes, electrical systems). Cost: $39-60 per test. Study time: 2-6 months depending on your baseline knowledge.
OSHA 10 or 30-hour construction safety - Required or strongly preferred for construction and heavy equipment work. Cost: $100-300. Time: 1-3 days.
Medium priority (if it fits your career path):
Diesel mechanic trade school - Comprehensive diesel technology program through trade school or community college. Covered by GI Bill. Time: 6 months to 2 years. Value: Significantly increases your mechanical knowledge and earning potential.
Associate's degree in diesel technology or automotive technology - Formal degree that opens doors to advanced mechanical roles and shop supervisor positions. Covered by GI Bill. Time: 2 years. Value: Long-term career advancement.
Executive protection training - If you're going the security/law enforcement route and want to pursue bodyguard work. Courses available through ESI, EPI. Cost: $2,000-5,000. Time: 1-2 weeks.
NCCCO crane operator certification - If you want to operate cranes (high-paying specialization). Cost: $300-600 for certification. Requires training and experience.
Low priority (nice to have, not critical):
Forklift certification - Useful for logistics and warehouse work. Cost: $50-150. Time: 1 day. Entry salary: $35K-45K.
Hazmat and tanker endorsements - Additional CDL endorsements for specialized trucking. Cost: $100-200 per endorsement. Value: Increases job opportunities and pay.
Welding certification - If you want to add welding skills to your mechanical background. Trade schools offer programs. Cost: varies. Time: 6 months to 2 years.
The skills gap (what you need to learn)
Let's be honest. There are civilian skills you don't have. Recognizing the gap is step one.
Advanced diagnostics: Modern civilian vehicles and equipment use computerized diagnostic systems. Your LAV maintenance experience is a foundation, but you'll need training on modern diagnostic tools, software, and electronic systems. Trade school or employer training covers this.
Civilian vehicle operations regulations: Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations for CDL drivers, hours of service rules, electronic logging devices (ELDs). You'll learn this in CDL school.
Customer service: If you go into armored car work, delivery driving, or service technician roles, you'll interact with customers. Learn professional communication and customer service skills.
Computer skills: Basic Microsoft Office, email, and data entry. Most jobs require some computer work. If you're not comfortable with computers, take a free online course.
Resume and interview skills: Writing civilian resumes and interviewing is different from military evaluations. Use resources like Military Transition Toolkit to translate your experience effectively.
Real 0313 success stories
Jason, 28, former LAV driver → Heavy equipment operator
After 4 years as an LAV Crewman with two deployments, Jason got out as a Corporal. He enrolled in a heavy equipment operator program using his GI Bill, earned his CDL and equipment certifications, and landed a job with a construction company. Started at $52,000, now makes $72,000 operating excavators and bulldozers. Works union, gets overtime, and has solid benefits.
Eric, 30, former LAV gunner → Diesel mechanic
Eric did 6 years, got out as a Sergeant. He enrolled in a diesel technology program at a community college (GI Bill), earned ASE certifications, and was hired by a Caterpillar dealer as a heavy equipment technician. Started at $58,000, now makes $78,000 after 4 years. Considering shop supervisor roles that pay $85K+.
Alex, 26, former LAV crew chief → CDL truck driver (heavy haul)
Alex got out after 5 years, earned his CDL Class A with endorsements, and started with a regional carrier making $48,000. After 2 years of experience, he moved to heavy haul transporting construction equipment and oversized loads. Now makes $88,000 with benefits, home most weekends, and enjoys the driving.
Action plan: your first 90 days out
Here's what to actually do when you transition:
Month 1: Assessment and setup
- Update your resume (use our transition toolkit at militarytransitiontoolkit.com)
- Get your DD-214 and keep 10 certified copies
- Apply for VA disability (if you haven't already)
- Research CDL schools and heavy equipment operator programs
- Set up LinkedIn profile with professional photo
- Connect with other Marines who transitioned to vehicle operations or mechanical careers
Month 2: Training and certification
- Enroll in CDL Class A training program (covered by GI Bill in many cases)
- Apply for diesel mechanic programs or heavy equipment operator training
- Get OSHA 10-hour safety certification
- Start applying to entry-level jobs (trucking companies hire quickly)
- Attend veteran job fairs
- Join veteran organizations for networking
Month 3: Applications and interviews
- Complete CDL training and pass your CDL exam
- Apply to 10-15 jobs per week (trucking, construction, mechanics)
- Tailor your resume for each application (emphasize vehicle operations and maintenance)
- Practice interview answers focusing on your LAV experience
- Network with other veterans in your target field
- Consider temporary work while waiting for ideal positions
Bottom line for 0313 LAV Crewmen
Your LAV Crewman experience isn't a niche military job with no civilian application. It's a foundation in vehicle operations, mechanical maintenance, and tactical operations that translates to multiple high-demand civilian careers.
You've proven you can operate complex vehicles, maintain diesel systems, work under pressure, and execute missions as part of a crew. Those skills are valuable in trucking, construction, heavy equipment operation, diesel mechanics, and law enforcement.
First-year income of $45K-65K is realistic. Within 5 years, $70K-95K+ is achievable if you get your CDL, pursue mechanical certifications, or specialize in high-demand areas.
The vehicle operations and mechanical skills you gained on the LAV translate directly to civilian jobs. You just need the right certifications and to present your experience in terms civilians understand.
Don't listen to people who say LAV Crewman doesn't translate. They don't understand what you did or the value of your experience.
Ready to build your transition plan? Use the career planning tools at Military Transition Toolkit to map your skills, research salaries, and track your certifications as you transition to civilian life.