Marine 7251 Airfield Operations Specialist to Civilian: Complete Career Transition Guide (2025 Salary Data)

Bottom Line Up Front

Marines with Airfield Operations Specialist experience bring airfield management, flight line operations, aircraft marshalling/parking, airfield inspections, aviation safety protocols, and ground operations coordination—skills that translate directly to civilian airport operations, Fixed Base Operator (FBO) management, aviation facilities management, and aviation safety positions. Realistic first-year salaries range from $50,000-$75,000, with experienced professionals in airport operations management and aviation safety hitting $85,000-$130,000+. Your hands-on airfield operations experience is exactly what civilian airports, FBOs, and aviation companies need—it's a direct career crosswalk with multiple high-demand paths.

Let's address the elephant in the room

Every Airfield Operations Specialist transitioning out hears: "Civilian airports are completely different." "You'll start at the bottom." "Military airfield experience doesn't count."

Wrong. Here's what they don't understand: Airfield operations are airfield operations—military or civilian, the fundamentals are identical.

You didn't just "work on a flight line." You:

Managed daily airfield operations and flight line activities
Marshalled and directed aircraft movement on taxiways and ramps
Conducted airfield inspections identifying FOD (Foreign Object Debris) and safety hazards
Coordinated aircraft parking, fueling, and ground servicing
Maintained airfield status boards and operational information
Enforced aviation safety regulations and airfield procedures
Communicated with pilots, tower, and ground crews via radio
Managed aircraft arrival/departure schedules and parking plans
Responded to airfield emergencies and incidents
Trained personnel on airfield safety and operations procedures

That's aviation operations management, safety enforcement, coordination skills, attention to detail, and regulatory compliance. Civilian airports, FBOs, corporate aviation facilities, and aviation companies need exactly these skills. It's a direct transfer—you just need to learn civilian FAA regulations instead of military procedures.

Best civilian career paths for Airfield Operations Specialists

Let's get specific. Here are the fields where Airfield Operations Specialists land jobs, with current 2024-2025 salary data.

Airport operations specialist/coordinator (most direct transfer)

Civilian job titles:

Airport operations specialist
Airport operations coordinator
Airfield operations officer
Airport duty manager
Ramp operations coordinator

Salary ranges:

Airport operations specialist: $50,000-$70,000
Airport operations coordinator: $55,000-$75,000
Senior operations specialist: $65,000-$90,000
Airport duty manager: $70,000-$95,000
Operations manager: $80,000-$110,000
Director of operations (major airport): $100,000-$140,000+

Major employers:

Commercial airports (major hubs, regional, and small)
Airport authorities (regional/municipal)
Private airport management companies (Avports, Vantage, others)
Military contract operations (Woolpert, IAP Worldwide, others supporting military airfields)

What translates directly:

Airfield inspections and FOD checks
Aircraft marshalling and ground movement
Safety protocol enforcement
Coordinating ground operations
Radio communications
Emergency response
Regulatory compliance mindset
Shift operations (24/7 airports)

Certifications needed:

Airport Operations Council (AOC) certifications (Certified Member - CM or Accredited Airport Executive - AAE, $400-$600)
FAA security training (usually employer-provided)
Airfield driving and safety training (employer-provided)
OSHA safety certifications (10 or 30-hour, $100-$400)
Associate's or Bachelor's in Aviation Management (preferred for management track, use GI Bill)

Reality check: This is the most direct career path. You're doing exactly what you did as a Marine—managing airfield operations, conducting inspections, coordinating aircraft movement, enforcing safety—just at a civilian airport with civilian FAA regulations instead of military procedures.

Civilian airport operations specialists:

Conduct daily airfield inspections (runways, taxiways, ramps—FOD checks, lighting, markings)
Respond to aircraft incidents and emergencies
Coordinate snow removal and airfield maintenance
Manage wildlife hazards and bird strikes
Enforce FAA regulations and airport security procedures
Brief pilots on NOTAMs (Notices to Airmen) and airfield status
Communicate with tower, pilots, ground crews, airport tenants

Your military airfield experience is exactly what they need. You understand aviation safety, you're comfortable around aircraft, you know how to conduct inspections and enforce procedures.

Pay starts moderate ($50K-$70K) but advances well with experience. Major hub airports (Atlanta, Chicago O'Hare, Dallas-Fort Worth, Denver, LAX) pay at the higher end. Small regional airports pay less but may offer easier entry.

Many airports specifically recruit military veterans for operations positions, recognizing value of military airfield training and discipline.

Best for: Airfield Operations Specialists who want direct career transfer, airport operations work, clear advancement path, and staying in aviation environment.

Fixed Base Operator (FBO) operations/management (private aviation)

Civilian job titles:

FBO line service technician
FBO operations coordinator
FBO supervisor/manager
Customer service representative (aviation)
General aviation operations specialist

Salary ranges:

FBO line service technician: $35,000-$50,000
FBO operations coordinator: $45,000-$65,000
FBO supervisor: $55,000-$75,000
FBO manager: $65,000-$95,000
FBO general manager (major location): $85,000-$130,000+

Major employers:

Signature Flight Support (largest FBO chain)
Atlantic Aviation
Jet Aviation
Million Air
Ross Aviation
Independent FBOs (hundreds nationwide)

What translates directly:

Aircraft marshalling and parking
Fueling operations and safety
Ramp operations coordination
Customer service to pilots/passengers
Safety protocol enforcement
Coordinating ground services
Emergency response

Certifications needed:

NATA Safety 1st Line Service Training (National Air Transportation Association, $200-$400, industry standard)
Aircraft fueling safety certification (usually employer-provided)
Airfield driving permit (employer-provided)
Customer service training (employer-provided)

Reality check: FBOs are private aviation terminals serving corporate jets, charter aircraft, and general aviation. They provide fueling, hangar space, passenger services, aircraft maintenance coordination, and concierge services.

Line service technicians marshal aircraft, provide fueling, tow aircraft, coordinate services. It's similar to Marine flight line work but with heavier customer service component—you're interacting with passengers and flight crews.

Entry-level line service pay is low ($35K-$50K) but it's good entry into corporate/private aviation. With experience, advance to supervisor ($55K-$75K) then manager ($65K-$95K+).

Major FBOs at busy airports (Teterboro NJ, Van Nuys CA, Palm Beach FL, Scottsdale AZ) are high-volume operations with career advancement opportunities. Small FBOs at regional airports offer more relaxed pace but limited advancement.

Lifestyle: Direct interaction with corporate executives, celebrities, and high-net-worth individuals. Customer service skills critical—you're representing the FBO to demanding clientele.

Good entry path: Start as line service tech to learn civilian aviation and customer service, advance to operations or management within 2-4 years.

Best for: Airfield Operations Specialists who want private aviation environment, customer service interaction, and path to FBO management.

Aviation safety specialist/inspector (regulatory focus)

Civilian job titles:

Airport safety inspector
Aviation safety specialist
Airfield compliance coordinator
Safety management systems (SMS) coordinator
Wildlife hazard management specialist

Salary ranges:

Airport safety inspector: $55,000-$80,000
Aviation safety specialist: $65,000-$90,000
SMS coordinator: $70,000-$100,000
Aviation safety manager: $85,000-$120,000
Director of safety (major airport/airline): $100,000-$140,000+

What translates directly:

Airfield inspections and hazard identification
Safety regulation enforcement
Incident investigation and reporting
Safety training and briefings
Compliance monitoring
FOD prevention programs
Attention to detail for safety-critical operations

Certifications needed:

Certified Aviation Manager (CAM) (AAAE - American Association of Airport Executives, $600-$800)
Airport Certified Employee (ACE) certifications (AAAE various specialties, $200-$500 each)
FAA Safety Management Systems (SMS) training
OSHA safety certifications (30-hour preferred, $200-$400)
Bachelor's degree in Aviation Safety or related (strongly preferred, use GI Bill)

Reality check: Aviation safety specialists conduct inspections, ensure regulatory compliance, investigate incidents, manage wildlife hazards, oversee FOD programs, and maintain Safety Management Systems (SMS) required by FAA.

Your Marine airfield inspection experience, safety mindset, and attention to detail are perfect for aviation safety roles. You've conducted daily FOD checks, identified hazards, enforced safety procedures—exactly what civilian aviation safety specialists do.

Employers: Airports, airlines, aviation authorities, FAA (as Aviation Safety Inspector—federal career, GS-11 to GS-13, $73K-$110K+), corporate aviation departments.

Less hands-on than operations specialist roles—more inspection, documentation, compliance monitoring, training. Good for Marines who prefer systematic safety work over dynamic flight line operations.

Strong job security—aviation safety is non-negotiable and heavily regulated. FAA continually increases safety requirements, driving demand for qualified safety professionals.

Best for: Airfield Operations Specialists with strong attention to detail, interest in safety and regulatory compliance, and preference for inspection/audit work over operational roles.

Aircraft ground support equipment (GSE) operations/management

Civilian job titles:

GSE operations coordinator
Ground support equipment manager
Ramp equipment supervisor
Aviation maintenance scheduler
Fleet management specialist (aviation)

Salary ranges:

GSE coordinator: $45,000-$65,000
Ground equipment supervisor: $55,000-$80,000
GSE manager: $70,000-$95,000
Director of ground operations: $85,000-$120,000

What translates directly:

Operating and maintaining ground support equipment
Coordinating equipment for aircraft servicing
Equipment safety and compliance
Troubleshooting mechanical issues
Managing equipment inventories
Training personnel on equipment operations

Certifications needed:

Ground support equipment certifications (varies by equipment type, employer-provided)
Commercial Driver's License (CDL) (for some equipment, $3,000-$7,000 for training)
Forklift and heavy equipment certifications (OSHA, $100-$300)
Equipment maintenance training (varies)

Reality check: Airlines and airports need managers for ground support equipment fleets: tugs, belt loaders, catering trucks, deicing equipment, fuel trucks, ground power units, lavatory trucks, etc.

You coordinate equipment availability, schedule maintenance, ensure regulatory compliance, train operators, manage budgets. Less glamorous than flight operations but critical to airport operations.

Your experience operating ground equipment, coordinating aircraft servicing, and maintaining equipment accountability translates directly.

Good path for Marines who prefer equipment operations and management over direct flight line work. More mechanical/logistics focus than aviation operations focus.

Best for: Airfield Operations Specialists interested in equipment operations and logistics rather than direct aircraft operations, with mechanical aptitude.

Corporate/business aviation operations

Civilian job titles:

Corporate aviation operations coordinator
Flight department coordinator
Aviation facilities manager
Corporate hangar operations manager

Salary ranges:

Flight operations coordinator: $55,000-$80,000
Aviation operations manager: $75,000-$105,000
Aviation facilities manager: $80,000-$110,000
Flight department director: $95,000-$140,000+

What translates directly:

Aircraft ground operations coordination
Facility/hangar operations management
Coordinating aircraft servicing and maintenance
Safety protocol implementation
Vendor coordination
Facility security

Certifications needed:

National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) training (various courses, $300-$1,000)
Aviation facility management certifications
Safety and security training
Associate's or Bachelor's in Aviation Management (use GI Bill)

Reality check: Large corporations operate private aircraft fleets and need operations managers for their flight departments. Fortune 500 companies, tech companies, financial firms, healthcare systems often operate corporate aircraft.

You manage hangar operations, coordinate aircraft servicing, oversee ground operations, ensure safety compliance, manage facilities—similar to military flight line management but for corporate fleet.

Fewer aircraft than commercial airport, but higher-touch operations. You're supporting company executives and managing boutique operation rather than high-volume commercial operations.

Good work-life balance, corporate benefits and culture, exposure to business aviation side of industry.

Entry barrier: Many corporate flight departments prefer experience. Consider starting at FBO or airport operations, then transitioning to corporate aviation after 2-3 years.

Best for: Airfield Operations Specialists interested in corporate environment, smaller-scale boutique operations, and business aviation rather than commercial airline industry.

Air cargo operations/logistics

Civilian job titles:

Air cargo operations specialist
Ramp operations coordinator (cargo)
Air freight operations manager
Logistics coordinator (aviation)

Salary ranges:

Cargo operations specialist: $45,000-$65,000
Cargo ramp coordinator: $50,000-$70,000
Cargo operations supervisor: $65,000-$85,000
Cargo operations manager: $75,000-$105,000

Major employers:

FedEx (largest cargo airline)
UPS Airlines
DHL
Amazon Air
Atlas Air
Cargo-focused airlines

What translates directly:

Aircraft loading/unloading coordination
Ramp operations and safety
Time-critical operations management
Coordinating ground equipment and personnel
Safety and security protocols
Shift operations (cargo operates 24/7)

Certifications needed:

Dangerous goods training (IATA certified, required for cargo, $300-$800)
Cargo handling certifications (employer-provided)
Security training (employer-provided)
Forklift certification (OSHA, $100-$300)

Reality check: Air cargo operations coordinate loading/unloading aircraft, managing ground operations, ensuring on-time departures, handling hazardous materials, and maintaining safety.

Similar to passenger airline operations but focused on freight. Fast-paced, time-critical environment—especially at FedEx/UPS hubs where sorting happens overnight.

Your airfield operations and coordination experience translates well. You understand aircraft ground operations, safety procedures, and working in high-tempo environment.

Cargo operations run overnight and early morning shifts (most freight moves while passengers sleep). Shift differential pay but impacts lifestyle.

Best for: Airfield Operations Specialists comfortable with shift work, interested in logistics side of aviation, and preferring cargo operations over passenger operations.

Skills translation table (for your resume)

Stop writing "Marine Airfield Operations Specialist" or "7251." Civilian HR doesn't know military MOSs. Translate:

Military Skill	Civilian Translation
Conducted airfield inspections	Conducted daily airfield inspections identifying safety hazards, FOD, and regulatory compliance issues
Marshalled and parked aircraft	Directed aircraft ground movement and parking operations following safety procedures
Managed flight line operations	Coordinated daily flight line operations including aircraft servicing, fueling, and ground equipment
Enforced aviation safety procedures	Implemented and enforced aviation safety regulations ensuring zero-accident operations
Coordinated aircraft movements	Coordinated aircraft arrival/departure schedules and ramp operations with ATC and ground crews
Conducted FOD walks	Performed Foreign Object Debris inspections maintaining airfield safety standards
Maintained operational status boards	Maintained real-time operational information and communications with operational units
Trained personnel on airfield operations	Developed and delivered training on airfield safety procedures and ground operations
Responded to airfield emergencies	Executed emergency response procedures for aircraft incidents and airfield hazards

Use active verbs: Conducted, Coordinated, Managed, Implemented, Enforced, Maintained, Directed, Executed.

Use numbers: "Conducted 500+ airfield inspections," "Coordinated ground operations for 1,000+ aircraft movements," "Managed fleet of 15 ground support vehicles," "Trained 30+ personnel on safety procedures," "Maintained zero-accident record over 3 years."

Focus on safety and results: "Maintained 100% FOD-free operations," "Zero safety incidents in XX aircraft movements," "Achieved 99.9% on-time departure rate."

Certifications that actually matter

Here's what's worth your time and GI Bill for airfield operations careers:

High priority (get these first):

Airport Operations Council (AOC) Certified Member (CM) - Entry-level professional certification for airport operations. Demonstrates knowledge of airport operations fundamentals. Cost: $400-$600. Time: 3-6 months preparation, online exam. Value: Preferred or required by many airports for operations positions.

NATA Safety 1st Line Service Training - Industry standard for FBO line service. Covers aircraft marshalling, fueling safety, ground operations. Cost: $200-$400. Time: 1-2 days. Value: Required or strongly preferred by FBOs nationwide.

OSHA 10 or 30-hour safety training - General industry or construction safety. Demonstrates safety knowledge. Cost: $100-$400. Time: 10 or 30 hours online. Value: Preferred by many employers, shows safety commitment.

Associate's or Bachelor's in Aviation Management, Airport Management, or related field - Opens management track and higher positions. Use GI Bill. Cost: $0 with GI Bill. Time: 2-4 years. Value: Required for advancement to manager/director levels.

Medium priority (based on career path):

FAA Airport Certification Training - If pursuing career at FAA Part 139 certificated airports (commercial service airports). Covers airport certification regulations. Cost: Varies (some free FAA courses, some paid). Value: Required knowledge for operations at certificated airports.

Wildlife Hazard Management Training - Specialty within airport operations. Managing bird strikes and wildlife hazards. Cost: $500-$1,500 for courses. Value: Opens specialized positions in wildlife management.

Dangerous Goods/Hazardous Materials Training - If pursuing cargo operations. IATA certified training required for handling hazmat in air transport. Cost: $300-$800. Time: 2-3 days. Value: Required for cargo operations positions.

Airport Certified Employee (ACE) certifications - American Association of Airport Executives offers various specialty certifications. Cost: $200-$500 each. Value: Professional development and specialization.

Commercial Driver's License (CDL) - If interested in operating large ground support equipment. Cost: $3,000-$7,000 for training. Time: 4-8 weeks. Value: Opens GSE operator and supervisor positions.

Lower priority (advanced/specialized):

Accredited Airport Executive (AAE) - Advanced professional certification from AAAE. Requires significant experience and education. Cost: $800-$1,200. Value: Senior management credential, pursue after 5-10 years experience.

Safety Management Systems (SMS) training - Advanced safety management. FAA requires SMS at Part 139 airports. Cost: $500-$2,000 for formal training. Value: Required for aviation safety specialist/manager roles.

Private Pilot License - Not required but demonstrates aviation knowledge and passion. Cost: $8,000-$12,000 (not GI Bill eligible for private). Time: 6-12 months. Value: Career enhancement, better understanding of pilot perspective.

The skills gap (what you need to learn)

Honest assessment helps you close gaps faster:

Civilian FAA regulations - Military airfields follow DoD procedures. Civilian airports follow FAA regulations (Part 139 for certificated airports). Learn FAA regs through AOC certification study or aviation management degree programs.

Customer service skills - Military airfield operations has minimal customer service. Civilian airports and FBOs require customer service mindset—you're serving passengers, pilots, airlines, tenants. Practice professional customer service communication.

Civilian communication style - Military radio procedures and brevity codes differ from civilian aviation communications. You'll need to learn civilian aviation phraseology and professional communication standards.

Business operations - If pursuing FBO or management roles, understand business: P&L, budgets, revenue generation, customer satisfaction metrics. Business courses or MBA (use GI Bill) build this knowledge.

Resume writing for civilian aviation - Translate military experience using civilian aviation terms. "Airfield operations" not "flight line." "FOD inspections" not "FOD walks." "Aircraft marshalling" not "spotting aircraft." Use civilian terminology.

Networking in aviation community - Connect with airport professionals on LinkedIn. Attend aviation conferences (AAAE, NATA, ACI-NA). Join local airport and aviation organizations. Many jobs filled through aviation community connections.

Real Airfield Operations Specialist success stories

Daniel, 26, former Marine Airfield Operations → Airport Operations Specialist at Denver International Airport

Four years as airfield operations specialist, got out as Corporal. Got AOC Certified Member (CM) certification and applied to airports nationwide. Hired by Denver International at $62,000. Now makes $78,000 after 3 years. Says his military airfield inspection and safety experience translated directly—same work, different regulations (FAA instead of DoD).

Jessica, 28, former Airfield Operations → FBO Manager at Signature Flight Support

Five years, got out as Sergeant. Started as FBO line service tech at $42,000 to learn civilian operations and customer service. Advanced to operations coordinator ($58,000) then manager ($82,000) in 4 years. Says military airfield operations gave her huge advantage on ramp operations and safety, just had to learn customer service aspect.

Mike, 30, former section leader → Aviation Safety Manager at regional airport

Seven years, got out as Staff Sergeant. Got bachelor's in Aviation Safety using GI Bill and AOC certifications. Started as operations specialist ($58,000), advanced to safety inspector ($72,000), now safety manager at $95,000. Says his military attention to detail and safety mindset were exactly what aviation safety roles needed.

Action plan: your first 90 days out

Here's what to actually do when you transition:

Month 1: Foundation and targeting

Get 10 copies of DD-214
File for VA disability if applicable
Determine career path: Airport operations (most direct), FBO operations (customer service), aviation safety (inspection focus), corporate aviation (smaller scale), or cargo operations
Create resume emphasizing: airfield operations, safety inspections, aircraft ground operations, FOD prevention, regulatory compliance (use Military Transition Toolkit)
Set up LinkedIn profile: airfield operations specialist, aviation operations, airport operations, aviation safety
Research target employers:
- Airports: Major hubs in cities where you want to live
- FBOs: Signature, Atlantic, Jet Aviation, Million Air, Ross Aviation
- Airlines: Check operations specialist positions
- Military contract operators: Companies managing military airfields
Join aviation LinkedIn groups and start connecting with airport professionals

Month 2: Certifications and applications

Start AOC Certified Member (CM) study and exam process (3-6 months, $400-$600, online)
Get NATA Safety 1st training if targeting FBOs ($200-$400, 1-2 days)
Complete OSHA 10-hour safety training ($100, online)
Enroll in associate's/bachelor's aviation program using GI Bill (if don't have degree)
Apply to 20+ positions weekly:
- Airport jobs: Check individual airport websites (most don't post on job boards)
- FBO positions: Company career sites and Indeed/LinkedIn
- Airlines: Cargo operations, ground operations positions
- USAJobs.gov: FAA and military contract airfield operations
Register with aviation-specific recruiting: Avjobs.com, AviationJobSearch.com
General veteran recruiting: Hire Heroes USA, RecruitMilitary

Month 3: Interview, network, launch

Complete AOC CM exam
Complete NATA Safety 1st training
Tailor resume for each application (emphasize relevant experience: safety inspections for safety roles, customer service willingness for FBO roles, operational coordination for operations roles)
Practice interview answers: safety examples, problem-solving, customer service (for FBO roles), working under pressure, attention to detail
Follow up on applications (call airport/FBO HR or operations managers directly)
Attend aviation job fairs if available in your area
Connect with 30+ airport and aviation professionals on LinkedIn
Join professional organizations: American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE), National Air Transportation Association (NATA for FBO career)
Consider relocation: Best airport jobs are at major hubs (Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, Denver, LA, etc.) or growing mid-size airports
If struggling to get hired: Consider starting as FBO line service tech ($35K-$50K) to get civilian aviation experience, then move to airport operations within 1-2 years

Bottom line for Airfield Operations Specialists

Your Marine airfield operations experience is one of the most directly transferable aviation careers—civilian airports need exactly what you did in the Marine Corps.

You've conducted airfield inspections, coordinated aircraft ground operations, enforced safety procedures, marshalled aircraft, responded to emergencies, and managed flight line operations. Civilian airports, FBOs, and aviation companies do the exact same work—just following FAA regulations instead of military procedures.

Airport operations offers most direct career path ($55K-$95K), with advancement to management ($80K-$140K+). FBO operations ($45K-$95K) combines aviation with customer service. Aviation safety ($65K-$120K+) focuses on inspections and compliance. All are viable paths with strong demand.

First-year income of $50K-$75K is realistic and achievable. Within 5-7 years, $80K-$110K is very achievable in airport operations management or aviation safety management with degree and professional certifications.

Your priorities: (1) Get AOC Certified Member certification (industry standard for airport operations professionals), (2) Learn FAA regulations and civilian aviation (different from military but not difficult), (3) Target airports and FBOs actively—most hire through relationships and veteran referrals, not just online postings.

The aviation industry needs qualified airfield operations professionals. Your Marine training gave you 3-5 years head start on civilian candidates. Use it. Airports actively recruit military veterans for operations positions. You're not starting from zero—you're entering as experienced aviation professional who just needs to learn civilian regulations.

Get your certifications, target the right employers, and leverage your military airfield experience. That's your path to stable, well-paying aviation career.

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 Airfield Operations Specialist transitioning out hears: "Civilian airports are completely different." "You'll start at the bottom." "Military airfield experience doesn't count."

Wrong. Here's what they don't understand: Airfield operations are airfield operations—military or civilian, the fundamentals are identical.

You didn't just "work on a flight line." You:

Managed daily airfield operations and flight line activities
Marshalled and directed aircraft movement on taxiways and ramps
Conducted airfield inspections identifying FOD (Foreign Object Debris) and safety hazards
Coordinated aircraft parking, fueling, and ground servicing
Maintained airfield status boards and operational information
Enforced aviation safety regulations and airfield procedures
Communicated with pilots, tower, and ground crews via radio
Managed aircraft arrival/departure schedules and parking plans
Responded to airfield emergencies and incidents
Trained personnel on airfield safety and operations procedures

Best civilian career paths for Airfield Operations Specialists

Let's get specific. Here are the fields where Airfield Operations Specialists land jobs, with current 2024-2025 salary data.

Airport operations specialist/coordinator (most direct transfer)

Civilian job titles:

Airport operations specialist
Airport operations coordinator
Airfield operations officer
Airport duty manager
Ramp operations coordinator

Salary ranges:

Airport operations specialist: $50,000-$70,000
Airport operations coordinator: $55,000-$75,000
Senior operations specialist: $65,000-$90,000
Airport duty manager: $70,000-$95,000
Operations manager: $80,000-$110,000
Director of operations (major airport): $100,000-$140,000+

Major employers:

Commercial airports (major hubs, regional, and small)
Airport authorities (regional/municipal)
Private airport management companies (Avports, Vantage, others)
Military contract operations (Woolpert, IAP Worldwide, others supporting military airfields)

What translates directly:

Airfield inspections and FOD checks
Aircraft marshalling and ground movement
Safety protocol enforcement
Coordinating ground operations
Radio communications
Emergency response
Regulatory compliance mindset
Shift operations (24/7 airports)

Certifications needed:

Airport Operations Council (AOC) certifications (Certified Member - CM or Accredited Airport Executive - AAE, $400-$600)
FAA security training (usually employer-provided)
Airfield driving and safety training (employer-provided)
OSHA safety certifications (10 or 30-hour, $100-$400)
Associate's or Bachelor's in Aviation Management (preferred for management track, use GI Bill)

Civilian airport operations specialists:

Conduct daily airfield inspections (runways, taxiways, ramps—FOD checks, lighting, markings)
Respond to aircraft incidents and emergencies
Coordinate snow removal and airfield maintenance
Manage wildlife hazards and bird strikes
Enforce FAA regulations and airport security procedures
Brief pilots on NOTAMs (Notices to Airmen) and airfield status
Communicate with tower, pilots, ground crews, airport tenants

Your military airfield experience is exactly what they need. You understand aviation safety, you're comfortable around aircraft, you know how to conduct inspections and enforce procedures.

Many airports specifically recruit military veterans for operations positions, recognizing value of military airfield training and discipline.

Best for: Airfield Operations Specialists who want direct career transfer, airport operations work, clear advancement path, and staying in aviation environment.

Fixed Base Operator (FBO) operations/management (private aviation)

Civilian job titles:

FBO line service technician
FBO operations coordinator
FBO supervisor/manager
Customer service representative (aviation)
General aviation operations specialist

Salary ranges:

FBO line service technician: $35,000-$50,000
FBO operations coordinator: $45,000-$65,000
FBO supervisor: $55,000-$75,000
FBO manager: $65,000-$95,000
FBO general manager (major location): $85,000-$130,000+

Major employers:

Signature Flight Support (largest FBO chain)
Atlantic Aviation
Jet Aviation
Million Air
Ross Aviation
Independent FBOs (hundreds nationwide)

What translates directly:

Aircraft marshalling and parking
Fueling operations and safety
Ramp operations coordination
Customer service to pilots/passengers
Safety protocol enforcement
Coordinating ground services
Emergency response

Certifications needed:

NATA Safety 1st Line Service Training (National Air Transportation Association, $200-$400, industry standard)
Aircraft fueling safety certification (usually employer-provided)
Airfield driving permit (employer-provided)
Customer service training (employer-provided)

Entry-level line service pay is low ($35K-$50K) but it's good entry into corporate/private aviation. With experience, advance to supervisor ($55K-$75K) then manager ($65K-$95K+).

Lifestyle: Direct interaction with corporate executives, celebrities, and high-net-worth individuals. Customer service skills critical—you're representing the FBO to demanding clientele.

Good entry path: Start as line service tech to learn civilian aviation and customer service, advance to operations or management within 2-4 years.

Best for: Airfield Operations Specialists who want private aviation environment, customer service interaction, and path to FBO management.

Aviation safety specialist/inspector (regulatory focus)

Civilian job titles:

Airport safety inspector
Aviation safety specialist
Airfield compliance coordinator
Safety management systems (SMS) coordinator
Wildlife hazard management specialist

Salary ranges:

Airport safety inspector: $55,000-$80,000
Aviation safety specialist: $65,000-$90,000
SMS coordinator: $70,000-$100,000
Aviation safety manager: $85,000-$120,000
Director of safety (major airport/airline): $100,000-$140,000+

What translates directly:

Airfield inspections and hazard identification
Safety regulation enforcement
Incident investigation and reporting
Safety training and briefings
Compliance monitoring
FOD prevention programs
Attention to detail for safety-critical operations

Certifications needed:

Certified Aviation Manager (CAM) (AAAE - American Association of Airport Executives, $600-$800)
Airport Certified Employee (ACE) certifications (AAAE various specialties, $200-$500 each)
FAA Safety Management Systems (SMS) training
OSHA safety certifications (30-hour preferred, $200-$400)
Bachelor's degree in Aviation Safety or related (strongly preferred, use GI Bill)

Employers: Airports, airlines, aviation authorities, FAA (as Aviation Safety Inspector—federal career, GS-11 to GS-13, $73K-$110K+), corporate aviation departments.

Strong job security—aviation safety is non-negotiable and heavily regulated. FAA continually increases safety requirements, driving demand for qualified safety professionals.

Best for: Airfield Operations Specialists with strong attention to detail, interest in safety and regulatory compliance, and preference for inspection/audit work over operational roles.

Aircraft ground support equipment (GSE) operations/management

Civilian job titles:

GSE operations coordinator
Ground support equipment manager
Ramp equipment supervisor
Aviation maintenance scheduler
Fleet management specialist (aviation)

Salary ranges:

GSE coordinator: $45,000-$65,000
Ground equipment supervisor: $55,000-$80,000
GSE manager: $70,000-$95,000
Director of ground operations: $85,000-$120,000

What translates directly:

Operating and maintaining ground support equipment
Coordinating equipment for aircraft servicing
Equipment safety and compliance
Troubleshooting mechanical issues
Managing equipment inventories
Training personnel on equipment operations

Certifications needed:

Ground support equipment certifications (varies by equipment type, employer-provided)
Commercial Driver's License (CDL) (for some equipment, $3,000-$7,000 for training)
Forklift and heavy equipment certifications (OSHA, $100-$300)
Equipment maintenance training (varies)

You coordinate equipment availability, schedule maintenance, ensure regulatory compliance, train operators, manage budgets. Less glamorous than flight operations but critical to airport operations.

Your experience operating ground equipment, coordinating aircraft servicing, and maintaining equipment accountability translates directly.

Good path for Marines who prefer equipment operations and management over direct flight line work. More mechanical/logistics focus than aviation operations focus.

Best for: Airfield Operations Specialists interested in equipment operations and logistics rather than direct aircraft operations, with mechanical aptitude.

Corporate/business aviation operations

Civilian job titles:

Corporate aviation operations coordinator
Flight department coordinator
Aviation facilities manager
Corporate hangar operations manager

Salary ranges:

Flight operations coordinator: $55,000-$80,000
Aviation operations manager: $75,000-$105,000
Aviation facilities manager: $80,000-$110,000
Flight department director: $95,000-$140,000+

What translates directly:

Aircraft ground operations coordination
Facility/hangar operations management
Coordinating aircraft servicing and maintenance
Safety protocol implementation
Vendor coordination
Facility security

Certifications needed:

National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) training (various courses, $300-$1,000)
Aviation facility management certifications
Safety and security training
Associate's or Bachelor's in Aviation Management (use GI Bill)

Fewer aircraft than commercial airport, but higher-touch operations. You're supporting company executives and managing boutique operation rather than high-volume commercial operations.

Good work-life balance, corporate benefits and culture, exposure to business aviation side of industry.

Entry barrier: Many corporate flight departments prefer experience. Consider starting at FBO or airport operations, then transitioning to corporate aviation after 2-3 years.

Best for: Airfield Operations Specialists interested in corporate environment, smaller-scale boutique operations, and business aviation rather than commercial airline industry.

Air cargo operations/logistics

Civilian job titles:

Air cargo operations specialist
Ramp operations coordinator (cargo)
Air freight operations manager
Logistics coordinator (aviation)

Salary ranges:

Cargo operations specialist: $45,000-$65,000
Cargo ramp coordinator: $50,000-$70,000
Cargo operations supervisor: $65,000-$85,000
Cargo operations manager: $75,000-$105,000

Major employers:

FedEx (largest cargo airline)
UPS Airlines
DHL
Amazon Air
Atlas Air
Cargo-focused airlines

What translates directly:

Aircraft loading/unloading coordination
Ramp operations and safety
Time-critical operations management
Coordinating ground equipment and personnel
Safety and security protocols
Shift operations (cargo operates 24/7)

Certifications needed:

Dangerous goods training (IATA certified, required for cargo, $300-$800)
Cargo handling certifications (employer-provided)
Security training (employer-provided)
Forklift certification (OSHA, $100-$300)

Reality check: Air cargo operations coordinate loading/unloading aircraft, managing ground operations, ensuring on-time departures, handling hazardous materials, and maintaining safety.

Similar to passenger airline operations but focused on freight. Fast-paced, time-critical environment—especially at FedEx/UPS hubs where sorting happens overnight.

Your airfield operations and coordination experience translates well. You understand aircraft ground operations, safety procedures, and working in high-tempo environment.

Cargo operations run overnight and early morning shifts (most freight moves while passengers sleep). Shift differential pay but impacts lifestyle.

Best for: Airfield Operations Specialists comfortable with shift work, interested in logistics side of aviation, and preferring cargo operations over passenger operations.

Skills translation table (for your resume)

Stop writing "Marine Airfield Operations Specialist" or "7251." Civilian HR doesn't know military MOSs. Translate:

Military Skill	Civilian Translation
Conducted airfield inspections	Conducted daily airfield inspections identifying safety hazards, FOD, and regulatory compliance issues
Marshalled and parked aircraft	Directed aircraft ground movement and parking operations following safety procedures
Managed flight line operations	Coordinated daily flight line operations including aircraft servicing, fueling, and ground equipment
Enforced aviation safety procedures	Implemented and enforced aviation safety regulations ensuring zero-accident operations
Coordinated aircraft movements	Coordinated aircraft arrival/departure schedules and ramp operations with ATC and ground crews
Conducted FOD walks	Performed Foreign Object Debris inspections maintaining airfield safety standards
Maintained operational status boards	Maintained real-time operational information and communications with operational units
Trained personnel on airfield operations	Developed and delivered training on airfield safety procedures and ground operations
Responded to airfield emergencies	Executed emergency response procedures for aircraft incidents and airfield hazards

Use active verbs: Conducted, Coordinated, Managed, Implemented, Enforced, Maintained, Directed, Executed.

Focus on safety and results: "Maintained 100% FOD-free operations," "Zero safety incidents in XX aircraft movements," "Achieved 99.9% on-time departure rate."

Certifications that actually matter

Here's what's worth your time and GI Bill for airfield operations careers:

High priority (get these first):

Medium priority (based on career path):

Lower priority (advanced/specialized):

The skills gap (what you need to learn)

Honest assessment helps you close gaps faster:

Real Airfield Operations Specialist success stories

Daniel, 26, former Marine Airfield Operations → Airport Operations Specialist at Denver International Airport

Jessica, 28, former Airfield Operations → FBO Manager at Signature Flight Support

Mike, 30, former section leader → Aviation Safety Manager at regional airport

Action plan: your first 90 days out

Here's what to actually do when you transition:

Month 1: Foundation and targeting

Get 10 copies of DD-214
File for VA disability if applicable
Determine career path: Airport operations (most direct), FBO operations (customer service), aviation safety (inspection focus), corporate aviation (smaller scale), or cargo operations
Create resume emphasizing: airfield operations, safety inspections, aircraft ground operations, FOD prevention, regulatory compliance (use Military Transition Toolkit)
Set up LinkedIn profile: airfield operations specialist, aviation operations, airport operations, aviation safety
Research target employers:
- Airports: Major hubs in cities where you want to live
- FBOs: Signature, Atlantic, Jet Aviation, Million Air, Ross Aviation
- Airlines: Check operations specialist positions
- Military contract operators: Companies managing military airfields
Join aviation LinkedIn groups and start connecting with airport professionals

Month 2: Certifications and applications

Start AOC Certified Member (CM) study and exam process (3-6 months, $400-$600, online)
Get NATA Safety 1st training if targeting FBOs ($200-$400, 1-2 days)
Complete OSHA 10-hour safety training ($100, online)
Enroll in associate's/bachelor's aviation program using GI Bill (if don't have degree)
Apply to 20+ positions weekly:
- Airport jobs: Check individual airport websites (most don't post on job boards)
- FBO positions: Company career sites and Indeed/LinkedIn
- Airlines: Cargo operations, ground operations positions
- USAJobs.gov: FAA and military contract airfield operations
Register with aviation-specific recruiting: Avjobs.com, AviationJobSearch.com
General veteran recruiting: Hire Heroes USA, RecruitMilitary

Month 3: Interview, network, launch

Complete AOC CM exam
Complete NATA Safety 1st training
Tailor resume for each application (emphasize relevant experience: safety inspections for safety roles, customer service willingness for FBO roles, operational coordination for operations roles)
Practice interview answers: safety examples, problem-solving, customer service (for FBO roles), working under pressure, attention to detail
Follow up on applications (call airport/FBO HR or operations managers directly)
Attend aviation job fairs if available in your area
Connect with 30+ airport and aviation professionals on LinkedIn
Join professional organizations: American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE), National Air Transportation Association (NATA for FBO career)
Consider relocation: Best airport jobs are at major hubs (Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, Denver, LA, etc.) or growing mid-size airports
If struggling to get hired: Consider starting as FBO line service tech ($35K-$50K) to get civilian aviation experience, then move to airport operations within 1-2 years

Bottom line for Airfield Operations Specialists

Your Marine airfield operations experience is one of the most directly transferable aviation careers—civilian airports need exactly what you did in the Marine Corps.

Get your certifications, target the right employers, and leverage your military airfield experience. That's your path to stable, well-paying aviation career.

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.