MOS 6173 Fixed-Wing Aircraft Maintenance Chief to Civilian: Your Complete Career Transition Roadmap (With Salary Data)

Bottom Line Up Front

As a Marine 6173 Fixed-Wing Aircraft Maintenance Chief, you're a proven senior maintenance leader who has managed airframe and powerplant maintenance programs on high-performance military aircraft. You've supervised large maintenance teams, coordinated phase inspections, managed aircraft-on-ground emergencies, and ensured mission readiness for Marine aviation. That senior leadership experience translates directly into airline maintenance management, corporate aviation leadership, defense contractor supervision, and MRO operations management. With your FAA A&P license and documented management experience, realistic first-year salaries range from $75,000-$95,000, with maintenance managers and directors at major airlines hitting $110,000-$150,000+. Airlines and aviation companies are desperately seeking experienced maintenance leaders—your military credentials put you ahead of most civilian candidates.

Let's address the elephant in the room

Every 6173 researching civilian careers asks: "Do airlines really value my military maintenance experience?"

The answer: Absolutely yes—but only if you translate it correctly and get your A&P license.

Here's what matters: Airlines don't fully understand what a "6173 Fixed-Wing Aircraft Maintenance Chief" does. But they do understand "Maintenance Supervisor with 8 years managing 20-person maintenance teams, phase inspection programs, and complex troubleshooting on turbofan-powered aircraft."

That's the language that gets you hired.

You didn't just "fix planes." As a 6173, you:

Supervised airframe and powerplant maintenance sections (10-30+ Marines)
Managed phase inspection programs and scheduled maintenance compliance
Coordinated with avionics, hydraulics, and support shops
Interfaced with Quality Assurance on discrepancies and inspections
Troubleshot complex mechanical and structural failures under operational pressure
Managed maintenance production flow and work prioritization
Maintained technical publications and engineering change compliance
Trained and mentored junior NCOs and maintenance supervisors
Ensured squadron aircraft availability and mission readiness
Responded to aircraft-on-ground (AOG) emergencies with time-critical solutions
Briefed maintenance status to commanding officers and operations

That's operations management, regulatory compliance, team leadership, quality assurance, and high-stakes problem-solving. Major airlines pay $110,000-$150,000+ for exactly those skills in their maintenance managers.

Best civilian career paths for 6173

Let's get specific. Here are the fields where 6173s consistently land, with real salary data.

Major airline maintenance management (highest pay and best benefits)

Civilian job titles:

Maintenance supervisor / shift manager
Hangar operations manager
Line maintenance manager
Base maintenance manager
Senior manager - maintenance operations
Director of maintenance (airline base)

Salary ranges:

Maintenance supervisor (line or hangar): $85,000-$115,000
Hangar operations manager: $100,000-$130,000
Base maintenance manager: $115,000-$150,000
Director of maintenance (major hub): $135,000-$175,000+
Plus shift differentials, overtime, and comprehensive benefits

What translates directly:

Supervising large maintenance teams (20-150+ technicians)
Managing work schedules and production flow
Ensuring FAA regulatory compliance (similar to NAVAIR compliance)
Coordinating multiple maintenance shops (airframe, powerplant, avionics, structures)
Quality assurance and safety management
Managing aircraft turnaround times and operational efficiency
AOG response and emergency troubleshooting
Union contract administration and labor relations
Budget management and cost control

Certifications needed:

FAA Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) license (absolutely required)
Airline-specific training (employer provides during onboarding)
Management experience (you have this)
Bachelor's degree (increasingly preferred for director-level roles, use GI Bill)

Reality check: Major airlines operate 24/7 with fleets of 200-1,000+ aircraft. Maintenance supervision requires managing teams across shifts, coordinating with operations, meeting FAA requirements, and maintaining on-time performance while ensuring safety.

Your Marine squadron maintenance experience translates directly. You've managed teams, ensured compliance, coordinated with QA, and maintained mission readiness—exactly what airlines need.

Career path: Most 6173s start as senior A&P mechanic or lead mechanic, move to supervisor within 1-3 years, then progress to manager roles. Your military leadership accelerates this timeline.

Major employers:

Legacy carriers: American Airlines, Delta, United, Southwest, Alaska Airlines
Low-cost carriers: JetBlue, Spirit, Frontier, Allegiant
Cargo operators: FedEx, UPS, Atlas Air, Kalitta Air
Regional airlines: SkyWest, Republic Airways, Envoy (American Eagle), GoJet

Benefits package:

Flight benefits: Free/heavily discounted air travel for you and family (sometimes parents and friends too)
401k matching: Typically 6-9% with airline match
Pension: Some airlines (Delta, Southwest, UPS, FedEx) still offer defined benefit pensions
Healthcare: Comprehensive medical, dental, vision
Union representation: IAM (International Association of Machinists) or TWU (Transport Workers Union)
Clear career progression: Structured advancement with seniority-based benefits

Work schedule: Shift work as supervisor (days, evenings, nights). Manager roles typically day shifts with occasional operational demands.

Best for: 6173s who want large-organization stability, excellent benefits, clear career growth, and structured advancement with strong union protections.

Corporate and business aviation management

Civilian job titles:

Director of Maintenance
Chief Inspector
Maintenance Manager
Aviation Manager (full flight department)

Salary ranges:

Director of Maintenance (small corporate fleet): $95,000-$135,000
Director of Maintenance (Fortune 500): $120,000-$170,000
Aviation Manager (full department responsibility): $150,000-$210,000+

What translates directly:

Managing all maintenance for corporate aircraft fleet
FAA regulatory compliance and oversight
Vendor management and parts procurement
Budget development and cost management
Personnel management (typically 2-20 people)
Executive-level communication and customer service
Flight department coordination

Certifications needed:

A&P license (required)
Inspection Authorization (IA) (typically required)
Aircraft type-specific experience (employer often provides training)

Reality check: Corporate flight departments support companies (Fortune 500 companies, high-net-worth individuals) with dedicated aircraft. As Director of Maintenance, you're the top aviation authority for the operation.

Fleet sizes range from 1-3 aircraft (smaller companies) to 10-25+ aircraft (major corporations with global operations like Walmart, Disney, or Goldman Sachs).

The work environment is professional, the pace is generally manageable compared to airlines, and you interact directly with C-suite executives. Your leadership and communication skills matter as much as technical expertise.

Top corporate aviation employers:

Fortune 500 companies (most have flight departments)
Flight management companies (NetJets, Flexjet, VistaJet, Solairus)
Charter operators (business jet charter)
Private individuals (ultra-high-net-worth clients)

Pay is excellent, work-life balance is generally good, and you have significant autonomy to run maintenance operations your way.

Best for: 6173s who want senior leadership autonomy, direct P&L responsibility, prefer smaller organizations, and enjoy executive-level interaction.

Defense contractor maintenance leadership

Civilian job titles:

Maintenance Manager (military contracts)
Program Manager - maintenance operations
Site Manager (OCONUS contracts)
Quality Assurance Manager
Field Service Manager
Technical Services Manager

Salary ranges:

Maintenance Manager (CONUS): $95,000-$125,000
Maintenance Manager (OCONUS): $120,000-$175,000
Program Manager: $125,000-$175,000
Site Manager (deployed location): $140,000-$200,000+
QA Manager: $100,000-$140,000

What translates directly: Everything. You're managing maintenance on military aircraft—often supporting Marine Corps squadrons and the exact aircraft you worked on.

Certifications needed:

Secret clearance (huge advantage if current—immediate hiring)
A&P license (preferred, sometimes not required for military contracts)
Aircraft-specific experience (F/A-18, KC-130, EA-6B, F-35, C-130, etc.)
Management experience (you have this)

Reality check: Defense contractors provide maintenance support to Marine Corps, Navy, and Air Force aviation worldwide. Your experience as a 6173 managing Marine fixed-wing maintenance makes you immediately valuable.

Contractors specifically recruit former Marine maintenance chiefs because you understand the mission, the aircraft, the maintenance procedures, and the operational culture.

Major employers:

Boeing (F/A-18, EA-18G programs)
Lockheed Martin (F-35, C-130J programs)
Northrop Grumman (EA-18G, unmanned systems)
Raytheon / Collins Aerospace
General Dynamics
DynCorp / Amentum
AAR Corp
StandardAero

OCONUS positions (overseas contracts supporting deployed units or foreign military sales) pay significantly higher (40-80% premium) but involve 6-12 month rotations away from home.

Security clearance: Active clearance makes you immediately hireable at premium rates. Many contractors have urgent needs for cleared maintenance managers.

Best for: 6173s with active security clearances who want to continue military aviation work at higher pay, especially those willing to work OCONUS contracts for maximum earnings.

MRO (Maintenance, Repair, Overhaul) operations management

Civilian job titles:

Operations Manager
Production Manager
Quality Manager
General Manager (MRO facility)
Director of Operations

Salary ranges:

Production Manager: $90,000-$120,000
Operations Manager: $105,000-$140,000
Quality Manager: $95,000-$130,000
General Manager: $125,000-$170,000

What translates directly:

Managing large-scale maintenance operations
Production scheduling and workflow optimization
Quality control and FAA/EASA regulatory compliance
Personnel management (often 50-300+ employees)
Customer relations and contract fulfillment
Budget responsibility and P&L management
Continuous improvement and process optimization

Certifications needed:

A&P license (required)
IA (Inspection Authorization) (valuable)
FAA Repair Station experience (employer provides)
Management experience (you have this)
Lean Six Sigma certification (valuable for process improvement roles)

Reality check: MRO facilities perform heavy maintenance, overhauls, modifications, and repairs that airlines and operators can't do in-house. Work includes airframe overhauls, engine overhauls, landing gear overhaul, interior refurbishment, avionics upgrades, and specialized modifications.

As an operations manager, you oversee production flow, quality assurance, customer delivery schedules, safety performance, and financial metrics. It's manufacturing management applied to aviation.

Major MRO employers:

AAR Corp (multiple U.S. facilities)
StandardAero
Duncan Aviation (business aviation specialist)
Stevens Aviation
Haeco Americas / Timco
ST Engineering
Chromalloy (engine overhaul)
Lufthansa Technik

Work is typically day shift in climate-controlled facilities. Less operational urgency than airline line maintenance, more focus on quality, throughput, and customer satisfaction.

Best for: 6173s who want large-scale operations management with clear business metrics, prefer structured environments, and enjoy process improvement and efficiency optimization.

Regional airline maintenance leadership (fastest path to management)

Civilian job titles:

Director of Maintenance
Maintenance Manager
Chief Inspector
Base Manager - maintenance

Salary ranges:

Maintenance Manager (regional airline): $80,000-$110,000
Director of Maintenance (base): $95,000-$130,000
Chief Inspector: $85,000-$115,000

What translates directly:

All maintenance program management
Regulatory compliance and FAA oversight
Team leadership and supervision
Safety management
Budget and cost control

Certifications needed:

A&P license (required)
IA (Inspection Authorization) (often required for DOM)
Management experience (you have this)

Reality check: Regional airlines (SkyWest, Republic, Envoy, GoJet, etc.) operate smaller aircraft (50-76 seat regional jets) feeding passengers to major airlines. They're excellent stepping stones to major airline careers.

Regional airlines promote faster than majors because they're smaller organizations with higher turnover. A 6173 can move into Director of Maintenance or senior management within 3-5 years.

Pay is lower than majors, but benefits are similar (flight benefits, 401k, healthcare) and career advancement is faster.

Career strategy: Many 6173s start at regionals, build FAA-regulated airline experience, then move to major airlines at higher management levels after 3-5 years.

Best for: 6173s who want fastest path to senior management and are willing to start at lower pay for accelerated advancement opportunities.

FAA Aviation Safety Inspector (government career)

Civilian job titles:

Aviation Safety Inspector (Airworthiness)
Principal Maintenance Inspector
Lead Inspector
FAA management roles

Salary ranges:

ASI (GS-12 entry): $90,000-$110,000
ASI (GS-13 with experience): $105,000-$130,000
Lead Inspector (GS-14): $125,000-$150,000
Senior roles (GS-15): $145,000-$175,000
Plus locality pay (major metro areas add 20-40%)

What translates directly:

Technical aircraft maintenance expertise
Regulatory compliance knowledge
Inspection and quality assurance experience
Report writing and documentation
Investigation and root cause analysis
Leadership and supervision

Certifications needed:

A&P license (required)
Minimum 3 years maintenance experience (you have far more)
U.S. citizenship (required for federal employment)
FAA-specific training (provided after hire)

Reality check: FAA Aviation Safety Inspectors conduct certification, surveillance, oversight, and enforcement for airlines, repair stations, and aviation operators. You ensure industry compliance with federal aviation regulations.

It's a federal career with excellent benefits, pension (FERS), job security, nationwide opportunities, and mission-focused work. You're protecting the flying public through regulatory oversight.

Veteran preference (5-10 points) gives you significant advantage in federal hiring processes.

Work involves facility inspections, records reviews, accident/incident investigations, certification activities, and regulatory enforcement actions.

Best for: 6173s who want federal job security, excellent benefits, mission-oriented regulatory work, and prefer government employment over commercial aviation.

How to get your A&P license (absolutely critical)

Your A&P license is non-negotiable for civilian aviation management. Here's your pathway:

Military experience route (recommended for 6173s)

The FAA allows military-trained mechanics to test for A&P using documented experience instead of attending A&P school.

Requirements:

30 months of practical maintenance experience (you have far more than this)
Proper documentation: DD-214, training certificates, duty assignments, maintenance logs, recommendation letter from officer or maintenance officer

Process:

Gather military documentation (training records, maintenance certifications, duty station assignments)
Contact FAA Flight Standards District Office (FSDO) in your area to schedule appointment
FSDO inspector reviews documentation and verifies you meet requirements
If approved, receive authorization to test
Take three written exams: General, Airframe, Powerplant (computer-based, $175 each = $525 total)
Pass oral and practical exams for Airframe and Powerplant (hands-on demonstration with DME = $600-$900 total)

Timeline: 2-6 months depending on how quickly you gather documentation and schedule testing

Cost: $1,500-$2,500 total (tests, examiner fees, study materials)

Study resources:

ASA Test Prep books (General, Airframe, Powerplant—industry standard)
Prepware app (practice tests, very effective)
King Schools A&P video course (comprehensive preparation)
Jeppesen A&P Technician textbooks (detailed technical reference)

Pass rates: 80-90% for military mechanics who prepare adequately. Your Marine training prepared you well.

FAA-approved A&P school (alternative if documentation is difficult)

If military documentation proves difficult:

Timeline: 18-24 months full-time
Cost: $0 with GI Bill (normally $25,000-$45,000)
Advantage: Guaranteed eligibility to test, structured curriculum, often includes job placement assistance

Most 6173s don't need this route—your military experience qualifies you via the documentation pathway.

Inspection Authorization (IA) - Your next critical credential

After obtaining 3 years of A&P experience (your military time may count), pursue your IA:

What it is: Advanced certification allowing you to:

Perform and approve annual inspections
Approve major repairs and alterations
Sign off on airworthiness

Why it matters: Required or strongly preferred for Director of Maintenance positions at Part 135 operators and corporate flight departments.

How to get it:

Hold A&P for 3+ years
Be actively engaged in maintenance
Pass written exam covering FARs and maintenance regulations
Cost: $100 exam fee
Study: 40-80 hours using FAA materials and IA prep courses

Skills translation table (for your resume)

Stop writing "6173 Fixed-Wing Aircraft Maintenance Chief." Translate into civilian management language:

Military Experience	Civilian Translation
6173 Fixed-Wing Aircraft Maintenance Chief	Senior Maintenance Manager – Fixed-Wing Jet Aircraft Operations
Supervised airframe and powerplant maintenance	Managed 15-30 maintenance technicians across airframe and powerplant shops
Managed phase inspection programs	Directed scheduled maintenance and heavy inspection programs ensuring regulatory compliance
Maintained F/A-18 Hornet aircraft	Tactical jet aircraft maintenance: turbofan engines, composite structures, advanced flight control systems
Coordinated with QA and production control	Collaborated with Quality Assurance and Maintenance Control on airworthiness and work prioritization
Troubleshot complex mechanical failures	Diagnosed and resolved critical airframe and powerplant system failures under operational deadlines
Ensured squadron mission readiness	Maintained 85%+ aircraft availability through effective maintenance program management
Managed maintenance supply operations	Supply chain management: $4M+ parts inventory with 96% availability and minimized AOG downtime
Trained junior maintenance supervisors	Developed and delivered technical and leadership training for NCOs and maintenance personnel
Responded to AOG situations	Led emergency maintenance response teams to restore aircraft to mission-capable status

Use leadership and management verbs: Managed, Directed, Supervised, Coordinated, Led, Optimized, Implemented, Achieved.

Quantify everything possible: "Managed 25 technicians," "Maintained 14 aircraft," "Achieved 88% readiness rate," "Reduced maintenance backlog 40%," "Managed $4M inventory with 99% accuracy."

Emphasize regulatory compliance: "Ensured 100% compliance with NAVAIR technical directives," "Zero major QA discrepancies during inspections," "Maintained perfect safety record."

Translate aircraft types: Don't just write "F/A-18"—add context: "F/A-18 Hornet tactical fighter: twin turbofan engines, composite structures, fly-by-wire flight controls, advanced avionics."

Highlight leadership: Your management of maintenance programs, personnel, and mission readiness is exactly what airline and corporate aviation employers seek.

Certifications that actually matter

Here's what's worth your time and GI Bill:

Absolute must-have:

FAA A&P License - Non-negotiable for any aviation maintenance career. Opens every door. Cost: $1,500-$2,500 via military experience route, or $0 with GI Bill at approved school. Value: Career essential.

Inspection Authorization (IA) - Required for Director of Maintenance and senior inspector roles. Cost: $100 exam fee after 3 years A&P. Value: Critical for management positions.

High priority:

Bachelor's degree in Aviation Maintenance Management, Business Administration, or Management - Increasingly required for director and senior management roles at airlines and major operators. Cost: $0 with GI Bill. Time: 2-4 years part-time while working. Value: Opens director-level and executive positions.

Safety Management Systems (SMS) training - Modern aviation safety framework now required by FAA for airlines and many operators. Cost: $500-$2,500. Value: Demonstrates current safety culture knowledge essential for management.

Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) Dispatch or similar operations training - Understanding airline operations makes you more effective as maintenance manager. Cost: $1,000-$3,000. Value: Bridges gap between maintenance and operations.

Medium priority (role-specific):

Project Management Professional (PMP) - Valuable for program management roles with defense contractors and large MRO operations. Cost: $500-$3,000 for prep and exam. Value: Opens program management career track.

Lean Six Sigma Green or Black Belt - Process improvement methodology highly valued in MRO and airline operations management. Cost: $1,500-$6,000. Value: Demonstrates continuous improvement and efficiency optimization skills.

Aircraft type-specific training - Advanced training on Boeing, Airbus, or business jet types. Often employer-provided, but self-funding shows initiative. Cost: $3,000-$15,000. Value: Makes you specialist on high-demand aircraft.

Lower priority (nice to have):

Private Pilot License - Helps understand flight operations and pilot perspective. Not required for maintenance careers. Cost: $8,000-$12,000. Value: Personal enrichment and operational understanding.

Master's degree (MBA or Aviation Management) - Valuable for executive-level positions (VP of Maintenance, etc.). Cost: $0-$40,000 with GI Bill. Value: Opens C-suite aviation careers.

The skills gap (what you need to learn)

Let's be honest about civilian aviation differences:

FAA regulations vs. NAVAIR: You know NAVAIR technical directives and military technical manuals. Civilian aviation follows FARs (Federal Aviation Regulations)—Part 91 (general aviation), Part 121 (airlines), Part 135 (charter), Part 145 (repair stations). Different structure, same compliance mindset. Your A&P study covers this comprehensively.

Business and P&L responsibility: Civilian operations focus heavily on cost control, financial performance, and profitability. You'll need business acumen—budgeting, cost-benefit analysis, return on investment, financial reporting. Consider business courses or MBA.

Customer service orientation: Military aviation focuses on mission. Civilian aviation balances safety, customer satisfaction, on-time performance, and profitability. You'll communicate with passengers, executives, and clients—diplomacy and service mindset matter.

Union labor relations: Airlines and many MRO facilities are heavily unionized (IAM, TWU). You'll work within collective bargaining agreements, manage union grievances, and navigate labor relations. Different from military command authority.

Computer systems: Civilian maintenance uses sophisticated computerized systems—CAMP, Trax, Ultramain, SAP, proprietary airline systems. You'll adapt quickly—these are user-friendly databases for tracking maintenance, parts, and compliance.

Marketing and customer relations: Some roles (corporate aviation, MRO sales, charter operations) require client-facing skills, business development, and relationship management. Not purely technical—interpersonal and business skills.

Real 6173 success stories

Mike, 34, former 6173 F/A-18 maintenance chief → Base Maintenance Manager at American Airlines

After 10 years managing Hornet maintenance at MCAS Miramar, Mike got out as a Staff Sergeant. Got his A&P via military experience route (passed all tests first try). Started at American as AMT in Dallas-Fort Worth. Promoted to Lead Mechanic after 18 months, Supervisor after 3 years, now Base Maintenance Manager after 7 years total. Makes $138,000 managing hangar operations for narrowbody fleet. Loves the structure, benefits, and career growth.

Jennifer, 31, former 6173 KC-130 maintenance chief → Director of Maintenance for corporate flight department

Jennifer spent 8 years on C-130 maintenance. Got out as Sergeant, immediately got A&P and IA within first year. Hired by Fortune 500 company as maintenance supervisor for their Gulfstream fleet (4 aircraft). Promoted to Director of Maintenance after 4 years. Makes $142,000 managing all maintenance for corporate flight department. Enjoys autonomy and executive-level work environment.

Carlos, 36, former 6173 → Program Manager for defense contractor

Carlos did 12 years on F-35 and legacy Hornet maintenance, got out as Gunnery Sergeant with Top Secret clearance. Immediately hired by Lockheed Martin as Maintenance Manager supporting F-35 program at MCAS Beaufort. Promoted to Program Manager after 5 years. Makes $165,000 managing contractor maintenance team and program deliverables. Clearance and F-35 experience made him highly sought-after.

Action plan: your first 90 days out

Here's your transition roadmap:

Month 1: A&P preparation and documentation

Request military training records, maintenance logs, and all qualification documentation
Get 10 certified copies of DD-214
Contact local FAA FSDO to schedule consultation about A&P testing eligibility
Purchase A&P study materials (ASA Test Prep books, Prepware app)
Begin studying for written exams (allocate 2 hours daily)
Update resume emphasizing leadership and management experience with quantified achievements
Research target sectors (major airlines, regional airlines, corporate aviation, contractors)

Month 2: Testing and applications

Complete all three A&P written exams (General, Airframe, Powerplant)
Schedule oral and practical exams with DME
Apply to 25-40 positions across multiple sectors (cast wide net initially)
Join LinkedIn and connect with aviation maintenance professionals
Network with other veteran aviation managers (use veteran groups)
Research top employers and their cultures (Glassdoor, airline forums)
Attend aviation job fairs if available in your area

Month 3: Interviews and final preparation

Complete A&P oral and practical exams, receive your certificate
Practice interview questions about leadership, problem-solving, safety, and teamwork
Prepare specific STAR-format examples: personnel management, emergent maintenance, process improvements, safety initiatives
Follow up professionally on all applications (email or call after 1-2 weeks)
Consider interim positions (Lead Mechanic, Senior Technician) if management roles take time—use as stepping stone
Begin planning for IA certification (obtainable after 3 years A&P experience)
Finalize your top choice of career path based on offers and opportunities

Bottom line for 6173s

Your senior fixed-wing maintenance leadership experience is exactly what civilian aviation desperately needs.

You've managed complex maintenance programs, supervised large teams, ensured regulatory compliance, coordinated across multiple shops, and maintained mission readiness under operational pressure. Those qualifications translate directly into civilian Director of Maintenance, Maintenance Manager, and senior supervisor positions.

The civilian aviation industry—particularly airlines—faces a critical shortage of experienced maintenance leaders. They need managers who understand both hands-on technical work and how to lead teams effectively. That's your exact background.

First-year salaries of $75K-$95K in supervisor or senior technician roles are realistic. Within 3-5 years, management positions paying $110K-$150K+ are very achievable with your experience level and leadership credentials.

Get your A&P license via the military experience pathway—it's straightforward for 6173s. Then pursue your IA after 3 years for Director of Maintenance opportunities.

Don't settle for entry-level mechanic positions. You're a proven maintenance leader—market yourself as one. Target supervisor, manager, and director roles that match your experience level.

Thousands of Marine maintenance chiefs have successfully transitioned into high-paying civilian aviation management careers. The path is proven, the demand is real, and the opportunities are excellent.

Your leadership and technical expertise are valuable. The civilian aviation industry needs you and will pay well for your skills.

Get your A&P, translate your experience correctly, and pursue the management roles you're qualified for.

You've earned it.

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.

Bottom Line Up Front

Let's address the elephant in the room

Every 6173 researching civilian careers asks: "Do airlines really value my military maintenance experience?"

The answer: Absolutely yes—but only if you translate it correctly and get your A&P license.

That's the language that gets you hired.

You didn't just "fix planes." As a 6173, you:

Supervised airframe and powerplant maintenance sections (10-30+ Marines)
Managed phase inspection programs and scheduled maintenance compliance
Coordinated with avionics, hydraulics, and support shops
Interfaced with Quality Assurance on discrepancies and inspections
Troubleshot complex mechanical and structural failures under operational pressure
Managed maintenance production flow and work prioritization
Maintained technical publications and engineering change compliance
Trained and mentored junior NCOs and maintenance supervisors
Ensured squadron aircraft availability and mission readiness
Responded to aircraft-on-ground (AOG) emergencies with time-critical solutions
Briefed maintenance status to commanding officers and operations

Best civilian career paths for 6173

Let's get specific. Here are the fields where 6173s consistently land, with real salary data.

Major airline maintenance management (highest pay and best benefits)

Civilian job titles:

Maintenance supervisor / shift manager
Hangar operations manager
Line maintenance manager
Base maintenance manager
Senior manager - maintenance operations
Director of maintenance (airline base)

Salary ranges:

Maintenance supervisor (line or hangar): $85,000-$115,000
Hangar operations manager: $100,000-$130,000
Base maintenance manager: $115,000-$150,000
Director of maintenance (major hub): $135,000-$175,000+
Plus shift differentials, overtime, and comprehensive benefits

What translates directly:

Supervising large maintenance teams (20-150+ technicians)
Managing work schedules and production flow
Ensuring FAA regulatory compliance (similar to NAVAIR compliance)
Coordinating multiple maintenance shops (airframe, powerplant, avionics, structures)
Quality assurance and safety management
Managing aircraft turnaround times and operational efficiency
AOG response and emergency troubleshooting
Union contract administration and labor relations
Budget management and cost control

Certifications needed:

FAA Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) license (absolutely required)
Airline-specific training (employer provides during onboarding)
Management experience (you have this)
Bachelor's degree (increasingly preferred for director-level roles, use GI Bill)

Your Marine squadron maintenance experience translates directly. You've managed teams, ensured compliance, coordinated with QA, and maintained mission readiness—exactly what airlines need.

Career path: Most 6173s start as senior A&P mechanic or lead mechanic, move to supervisor within 1-3 years, then progress to manager roles. Your military leadership accelerates this timeline.

Major employers:

Legacy carriers: American Airlines, Delta, United, Southwest, Alaska Airlines
Low-cost carriers: JetBlue, Spirit, Frontier, Allegiant
Cargo operators: FedEx, UPS, Atlas Air, Kalitta Air
Regional airlines: SkyWest, Republic Airways, Envoy (American Eagle), GoJet

Benefits package:

Flight benefits: Free/heavily discounted air travel for you and family (sometimes parents and friends too)
401k matching: Typically 6-9% with airline match
Pension: Some airlines (Delta, Southwest, UPS, FedEx) still offer defined benefit pensions
Healthcare: Comprehensive medical, dental, vision
Union representation: IAM (International Association of Machinists) or TWU (Transport Workers Union)
Clear career progression: Structured advancement with seniority-based benefits

Work schedule: Shift work as supervisor (days, evenings, nights). Manager roles typically day shifts with occasional operational demands.

Best for: 6173s who want large-organization stability, excellent benefits, clear career growth, and structured advancement with strong union protections.

Corporate and business aviation management

Civilian job titles:

Director of Maintenance
Chief Inspector
Maintenance Manager
Aviation Manager (full flight department)

Salary ranges:

Director of Maintenance (small corporate fleet): $95,000-$135,000
Director of Maintenance (Fortune 500): $120,000-$170,000
Aviation Manager (full department responsibility): $150,000-$210,000+

What translates directly:

Managing all maintenance for corporate aircraft fleet
FAA regulatory compliance and oversight
Vendor management and parts procurement
Budget development and cost management
Personnel management (typically 2-20 people)
Executive-level communication and customer service
Flight department coordination

Certifications needed:

A&P license (required)
Inspection Authorization (IA) (typically required)
Aircraft type-specific experience (employer often provides training)

Fleet sizes range from 1-3 aircraft (smaller companies) to 10-25+ aircraft (major corporations with global operations like Walmart, Disney, or Goldman Sachs).

Top corporate aviation employers:

Fortune 500 companies (most have flight departments)
Flight management companies (NetJets, Flexjet, VistaJet, Solairus)
Charter operators (business jet charter)
Private individuals (ultra-high-net-worth clients)

Pay is excellent, work-life balance is generally good, and you have significant autonomy to run maintenance operations your way.

Best for: 6173s who want senior leadership autonomy, direct P&L responsibility, prefer smaller organizations, and enjoy executive-level interaction.

Defense contractor maintenance leadership

Civilian job titles:

Maintenance Manager (military contracts)
Program Manager - maintenance operations
Site Manager (OCONUS contracts)
Quality Assurance Manager
Field Service Manager
Technical Services Manager

Salary ranges:

Maintenance Manager (CONUS): $95,000-$125,000
Maintenance Manager (OCONUS): $120,000-$175,000
Program Manager: $125,000-$175,000
Site Manager (deployed location): $140,000-$200,000+
QA Manager: $100,000-$140,000

What translates directly: Everything. You're managing maintenance on military aircraft—often supporting Marine Corps squadrons and the exact aircraft you worked on.

Certifications needed:

Secret clearance (huge advantage if current—immediate hiring)
A&P license (preferred, sometimes not required for military contracts)
Aircraft-specific experience (F/A-18, KC-130, EA-6B, F-35, C-130, etc.)
Management experience (you have this)

Contractors specifically recruit former Marine maintenance chiefs because you understand the mission, the aircraft, the maintenance procedures, and the operational culture.

Major employers:

Boeing (F/A-18, EA-18G programs)
Lockheed Martin (F-35, C-130J programs)
Northrop Grumman (EA-18G, unmanned systems)
Raytheon / Collins Aerospace
General Dynamics
DynCorp / Amentum
AAR Corp
StandardAero

OCONUS positions (overseas contracts supporting deployed units or foreign military sales) pay significantly higher (40-80% premium) but involve 6-12 month rotations away from home.

Security clearance: Active clearance makes you immediately hireable at premium rates. Many contractors have urgent needs for cleared maintenance managers.

Best for: 6173s with active security clearances who want to continue military aviation work at higher pay, especially those willing to work OCONUS contracts for maximum earnings.

MRO (Maintenance, Repair, Overhaul) operations management

Civilian job titles:

Operations Manager
Production Manager
Quality Manager
General Manager (MRO facility)
Director of Operations

Salary ranges:

Production Manager: $90,000-$120,000
Operations Manager: $105,000-$140,000
Quality Manager: $95,000-$130,000
General Manager: $125,000-$170,000

What translates directly:

Managing large-scale maintenance operations
Production scheduling and workflow optimization
Quality control and FAA/EASA regulatory compliance
Personnel management (often 50-300+ employees)
Customer relations and contract fulfillment
Budget responsibility and P&L management
Continuous improvement and process optimization

Certifications needed:

A&P license (required)
IA (Inspection Authorization) (valuable)
FAA Repair Station experience (employer provides)
Management experience (you have this)
Lean Six Sigma certification (valuable for process improvement roles)

As an operations manager, you oversee production flow, quality assurance, customer delivery schedules, safety performance, and financial metrics. It's manufacturing management applied to aviation.

Major MRO employers:

AAR Corp (multiple U.S. facilities)
StandardAero
Duncan Aviation (business aviation specialist)
Stevens Aviation
Haeco Americas / Timco
ST Engineering
Chromalloy (engine overhaul)
Lufthansa Technik

Work is typically day shift in climate-controlled facilities. Less operational urgency than airline line maintenance, more focus on quality, throughput, and customer satisfaction.

Best for: 6173s who want large-scale operations management with clear business metrics, prefer structured environments, and enjoy process improvement and efficiency optimization.

Regional airline maintenance leadership (fastest path to management)

Civilian job titles:

Director of Maintenance
Maintenance Manager
Chief Inspector
Base Manager - maintenance

Salary ranges:

Maintenance Manager (regional airline): $80,000-$110,000
Director of Maintenance (base): $95,000-$130,000
Chief Inspector: $85,000-$115,000

What translates directly:

All maintenance program management
Regulatory compliance and FAA oversight
Team leadership and supervision
Safety management
Budget and cost control

Certifications needed:

A&P license (required)
IA (Inspection Authorization) (often required for DOM)
Management experience (you have this)

Regional airlines promote faster than majors because they're smaller organizations with higher turnover. A 6173 can move into Director of Maintenance or senior management within 3-5 years.

Pay is lower than majors, but benefits are similar (flight benefits, 401k, healthcare) and career advancement is faster.

Career strategy: Many 6173s start at regionals, build FAA-regulated airline experience, then move to major airlines at higher management levels after 3-5 years.

Best for: 6173s who want fastest path to senior management and are willing to start at lower pay for accelerated advancement opportunities.

FAA Aviation Safety Inspector (government career)

Civilian job titles:

Aviation Safety Inspector (Airworthiness)
Principal Maintenance Inspector
Lead Inspector
FAA management roles

Salary ranges:

ASI (GS-12 entry): $90,000-$110,000
ASI (GS-13 with experience): $105,000-$130,000
Lead Inspector (GS-14): $125,000-$150,000
Senior roles (GS-15): $145,000-$175,000
Plus locality pay (major metro areas add 20-40%)

What translates directly:

Technical aircraft maintenance expertise
Regulatory compliance knowledge
Inspection and quality assurance experience
Report writing and documentation
Investigation and root cause analysis
Leadership and supervision

Certifications needed:

A&P license (required)
Minimum 3 years maintenance experience (you have far more)
U.S. citizenship (required for federal employment)
FAA-specific training (provided after hire)

It's a federal career with excellent benefits, pension (FERS), job security, nationwide opportunities, and mission-focused work. You're protecting the flying public through regulatory oversight.

Veteran preference (5-10 points) gives you significant advantage in federal hiring processes.

Work involves facility inspections, records reviews, accident/incident investigations, certification activities, and regulatory enforcement actions.

Best for: 6173s who want federal job security, excellent benefits, mission-oriented regulatory work, and prefer government employment over commercial aviation.

How to get your A&P license (absolutely critical)

Your A&P license is non-negotiable for civilian aviation management. Here's your pathway:

Military experience route (recommended for 6173s)

The FAA allows military-trained mechanics to test for A&P using documented experience instead of attending A&P school.

Requirements:

30 months of practical maintenance experience (you have far more than this)
Proper documentation: DD-214, training certificates, duty assignments, maintenance logs, recommendation letter from officer or maintenance officer

Process:

Gather military documentation (training records, maintenance certifications, duty station assignments)
Contact FAA Flight Standards District Office (FSDO) in your area to schedule appointment
FSDO inspector reviews documentation and verifies you meet requirements
If approved, receive authorization to test
Take three written exams: General, Airframe, Powerplant (computer-based, $175 each = $525 total)
Pass oral and practical exams for Airframe and Powerplant (hands-on demonstration with DME = $600-$900 total)

Timeline: 2-6 months depending on how quickly you gather documentation and schedule testing

Cost: $1,500-$2,500 total (tests, examiner fees, study materials)

Study resources:

ASA Test Prep books (General, Airframe, Powerplant—industry standard)
Prepware app (practice tests, very effective)
King Schools A&P video course (comprehensive preparation)
Jeppesen A&P Technician textbooks (detailed technical reference)

Pass rates: 80-90% for military mechanics who prepare adequately. Your Marine training prepared you well.

FAA-approved A&P school (alternative if documentation is difficult)

If military documentation proves difficult:

Timeline: 18-24 months full-time
Cost: $0 with GI Bill (normally $25,000-$45,000)
Advantage: Guaranteed eligibility to test, structured curriculum, often includes job placement assistance

Most 6173s don't need this route—your military experience qualifies you via the documentation pathway.

Inspection Authorization (IA) - Your next critical credential

After obtaining 3 years of A&P experience (your military time may count), pursue your IA:

What it is: Advanced certification allowing you to:

Perform and approve annual inspections
Approve major repairs and alterations
Sign off on airworthiness

Why it matters: Required or strongly preferred for Director of Maintenance positions at Part 135 operators and corporate flight departments.

How to get it:

Hold A&P for 3+ years
Be actively engaged in maintenance
Pass written exam covering FARs and maintenance regulations
Cost: $100 exam fee
Study: 40-80 hours using FAA materials and IA prep courses

Skills translation table (for your resume)

Stop writing "6173 Fixed-Wing Aircraft Maintenance Chief." Translate into civilian management language:

Military Experience	Civilian Translation
6173 Fixed-Wing Aircraft Maintenance Chief	Senior Maintenance Manager – Fixed-Wing Jet Aircraft Operations
Supervised airframe and powerplant maintenance	Managed 15-30 maintenance technicians across airframe and powerplant shops
Managed phase inspection programs	Directed scheduled maintenance and heavy inspection programs ensuring regulatory compliance
Maintained F/A-18 Hornet aircraft	Tactical jet aircraft maintenance: turbofan engines, composite structures, advanced flight control systems
Coordinated with QA and production control	Collaborated with Quality Assurance and Maintenance Control on airworthiness and work prioritization
Troubleshot complex mechanical failures	Diagnosed and resolved critical airframe and powerplant system failures under operational deadlines
Ensured squadron mission readiness	Maintained 85%+ aircraft availability through effective maintenance program management
Managed maintenance supply operations	Supply chain management: $4M+ parts inventory with 96% availability and minimized AOG downtime
Trained junior maintenance supervisors	Developed and delivered technical and leadership training for NCOs and maintenance personnel
Responded to AOG situations	Led emergency maintenance response teams to restore aircraft to mission-capable status

Use leadership and management verbs: Managed, Directed, Supervised, Coordinated, Led, Optimized, Implemented, Achieved.

Quantify everything possible: "Managed 25 technicians," "Maintained 14 aircraft," "Achieved 88% readiness rate," "Reduced maintenance backlog 40%," "Managed $4M inventory with 99% accuracy."

Emphasize regulatory compliance: "Ensured 100% compliance with NAVAIR technical directives," "Zero major QA discrepancies during inspections," "Maintained perfect safety record."

Translate aircraft types: Don't just write "F/A-18"—add context: "F/A-18 Hornet tactical fighter: twin turbofan engines, composite structures, fly-by-wire flight controls, advanced avionics."

Highlight leadership: Your management of maintenance programs, personnel, and mission readiness is exactly what airline and corporate aviation employers seek.

Certifications that actually matter

Here's what's worth your time and GI Bill:

Absolute must-have:

Inspection Authorization (IA) - Required for Director of Maintenance and senior inspector roles. Cost: $100 exam fee after 3 years A&P. Value: Critical for management positions.

High priority:

Medium priority (role-specific):

Lower priority (nice to have):

Master's degree (MBA or Aviation Management) - Valuable for executive-level positions (VP of Maintenance, etc.). Cost: $0-$40,000 with GI Bill. Value: Opens C-suite aviation careers.

The skills gap (what you need to learn)

Let's be honest about civilian aviation differences:

Real 6173 success stories

Mike, 34, former 6173 F/A-18 maintenance chief → Base Maintenance Manager at American Airlines

Jennifer, 31, former 6173 KC-130 maintenance chief → Director of Maintenance for corporate flight department

Carlos, 36, former 6173 → Program Manager for defense contractor

Action plan: your first 90 days out

Here's your transition roadmap:

Month 1: A&P preparation and documentation

Request military training records, maintenance logs, and all qualification documentation
Get 10 certified copies of DD-214
Contact local FAA FSDO to schedule consultation about A&P testing eligibility
Purchase A&P study materials (ASA Test Prep books, Prepware app)
Begin studying for written exams (allocate 2 hours daily)
Update resume emphasizing leadership and management experience with quantified achievements
Research target sectors (major airlines, regional airlines, corporate aviation, contractors)

Month 2: Testing and applications

Complete all three A&P written exams (General, Airframe, Powerplant)
Schedule oral and practical exams with DME
Apply to 25-40 positions across multiple sectors (cast wide net initially)
Join LinkedIn and connect with aviation maintenance professionals
Network with other veteran aviation managers (use veteran groups)
Research top employers and their cultures (Glassdoor, airline forums)
Attend aviation job fairs if available in your area

Month 3: Interviews and final preparation

Complete A&P oral and practical exams, receive your certificate
Practice interview questions about leadership, problem-solving, safety, and teamwork
Prepare specific STAR-format examples: personnel management, emergent maintenance, process improvements, safety initiatives
Follow up professionally on all applications (email or call after 1-2 weeks)
Consider interim positions (Lead Mechanic, Senior Technician) if management roles take time—use as stepping stone
Begin planning for IA certification (obtainable after 3 years A&P experience)
Finalize your top choice of career path based on offers and opportunities

Bottom line for 6173s

Your senior fixed-wing maintenance leadership experience is exactly what civilian aviation desperately needs.

Get your A&P license via the military experience pathway—it's straightforward for 6173s. Then pursue your IA after 3 years for Director of Maintenance opportunities.

Don't settle for entry-level mechanic positions. You're a proven maintenance leader—market yourself as one. Target supervisor, manager, and director roles that match your experience level.

Your leadership and technical expertise are valuable. The civilian aviation industry needs you and will pay well for your skills.

Get your A&P, translate your experience correctly, and pursue the management roles you're qualified for.

You've earned it.

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.