Army MOS 15F (Aircraft Electrician) to Civilian Career: Your Complete Transition Guide (With 2024-2025 Salary Data)

Bottom Line Up Front

Army 15F Aircraft Electricians—you're sitting on one of the most marketable military skill sets in the aviation industry. Your electrical system troubleshooting, avionics installation and repair, wiring and circuit analysis, component-level diagnostics, technical documentation interpretation, and quality assurance experience make you exactly what airlines, aerospace manufacturers, and MRO facilities desperately need. Realistic first-year civilian salaries range from $65,000-$80,000 for avionics technicians at regional operators, scaling to $85,000-$110,000 with FAA Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) certification at major airlines or aerospace companies. Senior avionics technicians with Inspection Authorization earn $100,000-$130,000+. The commercial aviation industry is projecting 13,100 annual job openings through 2032—you've got leverage.

Let's be direct: The civilian aviation world runs on electricity and avionics. Flight control systems, navigation, communication, instrumentation, electrical power generation and distribution—everything you've been doing in the Army is what keeps civilian aircraft flying. The only difference is you'll work in climate-controlled hangars instead of flight lines, earn 40-80% more money, and go home to your family every night.

Here's what you need to know: FAA Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) license ($20,000-$45,000 in training, 18-24 months, covered by GI Bill) is your golden ticket to $80,000-$120,000+ airline and aerospace careers. FCC General Radiotelephone Operator License (GROL) ($60 exam, weekend of study) adds credibility for avionics-specific roles. Your 15F experience gives you a massive head start on the electrical/avionics portions of A&P training—you already know half of what they're teaching.

Most 15F veterans with A&P licenses land airline or aerospace jobs at $75,000-$90,000 within 120 days of certification. Major airlines (Delta, United, American, Southwest) pay $80,000-$120,000+ with clear union-protected advancement. Defense contractors pay $85,000-$110,000 for avionics work on military aircraft. Corporate aviation offers $70,000-$95,000 with better schedules. You've got options—choose strategically.

What Does an Army 15F Aircraft Electrician Do?

As a 15F, you installed, troubleshot, repaired, and maintained electrical and avionics systems on Army aircraft—helicopters (Apache, Black Hawk, Chinook) and fixed-wing platforms. You diagnosed malfunctions in AC/DC electrical systems, flight control systems, communication and navigation equipment, lighting systems, electrical generators and alternators, and instrument panels. You read and interpreted complex wiring diagrams, technical manuals, and schematic diagrams. You used multimeters, oscilloscopes, meggers, and specialized test equipment to isolate faults down to component level.

You didn't just "fix electrical problems." You traced wiring through airframes, soldered circuit boards, calibrated instruments, performed continuity checks, replaced avionics components worth $50,000+, documented maintenance actions in aircraft logbooks, and ensured every system met Army aviation standards before signing off aircraft as airworthy. You worked on systems where failures meant mission compromise or loss of life.

Civilian employers need all of that. The technical skills translate directly. Airlines need avionics technicians. Aerospace companies need electrical specialists. MRO facilities need troubleshooters who can diagnose complex problems. Defense contractors need people who already know military aircraft electrical systems. You're not starting from zero—you're starting with thousands of hours of hands-on experience that civilian employers pay premium rates for.

Skills You've Developed (And Their Civilian Value)

Technical Skills (What Employers Pay For)

Aircraft electrical system troubleshooting = Avionics technician, electrical systems specialist (airlines, aerospace manufacturers, corporate aviation—$70K-$110K+)

Avionics installation and repair = Avionics maintenance technician, flight control systems specialist (commercial aviation, defense contractors—$75K-$120K)

Wiring and circuit analysis = Aircraft electrician, electrical systems technician (airlines, MRO facilities—$65K-$95K)

Component-level diagnostics = Bench repair technician, avionics shop specialist (repair stations, manufacturers—$60K-$90K)

Test equipment operation = Test equipment technician, calibration specialist (aerospace, electronics—$55K-$85K)

Technical manual interpretation = Quality assurance inspector, technical publications specialist (aerospace companies—$60K-$95K)

Instrument calibration = Avionics calibration technician, metrology specialist (FAA repair stations—$65K-$95K)

AC/DC power systems = Electrical power generation specialist, generator/alternator technician (aviation, industrial—$60K-$85K)

Communication/navigation systems = Radio technician, nav/comm specialist (airlines, avionics shops—$65K-$100K)

Quality control procedures = QA inspector, compliance specialist (FAA-regulated operations—$60K-$90K)

Soft Skills (What Gets You Promoted)

Attention to detail = You traced wiring through complex airframes with zero margin for error. Aviation quality control roles require identical precision.

Problem-solving under pressure = You diagnosed "no-start" conditions with aircraft needed for missions. Civilian AOG (Aircraft On Ground) situations pay premium rates for fast, accurate troubleshooting.

Safety consciousness = You followed lockout/tagout procedures and electrical safety protocols. Airlines and aerospace companies have identical safety cultures—violations mean termination.

Technical documentation = You maintained aircraft logbooks, completed forms, and documented every action. FAA-regulated aviation requires identical record-keeping.

Continuous learning = You studied technical orders and adapted to system upgrades. Civilian aviation has constant technology changes—employers value learning agility.

Teamwork = You coordinated with crew chiefs, pilots, and other maintainers. Civilian maintenance operations require identical collaboration.

Top Civilian Career Paths for 15F Veterans

1. Airline Avionics/Electrical Technician (Best Long-Term Stability)

Civilian job titles:

• Avionics Maintenance Technician
• Aircraft Electrician
• Electrical Systems Technician
• Line Maintenance Technician (Avionics)
• Avionics Inspector

Salary ranges:

• Entry-level (with A&P): $65,000-$80,000
• Mid-level (3-5 years): $80,000-$100,000
• Senior/Lead (5+ years): $95,000-$120,000+
• Inspection Authorization (IA): $105,000-$130,000+

Top employers:

• Delta Air Lines - Atlanta, GA; Minneapolis, MN; Detroit, MI; Los Angeles, CA; New York, NY
• United Airlines - Houston, TX; Chicago, IL; San Francisco, CA; Newark, NJ; Denver, CO
• American Airlines - Dallas-Fort Worth, TX; Charlotte, NC; Miami, FL; Phoenix, AZ
• Southwest Airlines - Dallas Love Field, TX; Phoenix, AZ; Baltimore, MD; Chicago, IL
• Alaska Airlines - Seattle, WA; Portland, OR
• JetBlue Airways - New York JFK; Fort Lauderdale, FL; Orlando, FL
• FedEx Express - Memphis, TN; Indianapolis, IN; Newark, NJ; Oakland, CA
• UPS Airlines - Louisville, KY; Rockford, IL; Philadelphia, PA; Ontario, CA

Certifications needed:

• FAA Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) license (required for airlines—$20K-$45K, 18-24 months, GI Bill covers it)
• FCC GROL (General Radiotelephone Operator License—$60 exam, preferred for avionics work)
• Manufacturer training (Boeing, Airbus, Embraer—employer-provided)

Reality check: Airlines offer the best combination of pay, benefits, and job security. Union contracts (IAM, TWU, IBT) protect wages and working conditions. Pay scales are published—you know exactly what you'll earn in 5, 10, 20 years. Benefits include flight privileges (free/reduced travel), 401(k) matching, pensions (at some carriers), and health insurance.

The downsides: You start on night shift. You work weekends and holidays (planes fly 24/7). You're often outdoors in all weather. Advancement is seniority-based—time in seat matters more than talent initially. Hiring processes take 2-6 months.

But here's the reality: A 15F veteran with A&P starting at Delta TechOps makes $70,000-$80,000 year one. After 5 years, you're at $90,000-$100,000+. After 10 years, $100,000-$120,000+ is common. Add overtime (time-and-a-half for weekends, double-time for holidays), and total compensation exceeds $130,000-$150,000 for senior technicians.

Best for: 15F soldiers wanting long-term stability, clear advancement path, union protection, and willingness to pay dues (night shift, holidays) for 2-3 years before better schedules.

2. Defense Contractor Avionics Technician (Immediate High Pay)

Civilian job titles:

• Aircraft Avionics Technician (Military Aircraft)
• Electrical Systems Specialist
• Avionics Field Service Representative
• Flight Control Systems Technician
• Quality Assurance Inspector (Avionics)

Salary ranges:

• Entry-level (0-2 years): $70,000-$90,000
• Mid-level (3-5 years): $85,000-$110,000
• Senior/Specialized (5+ years): $100,000-$130,000+
• OCONUS/Deployed: $95,000-$145,000+ (tax advantages)

Top employers:

• Lockheed Martin - Fort Worth, TX (F-35); Marietta, GA (C-130); Sikorsky sites
• Boeing Defense - St. Louis, MO (F/A-18); Philadelphia, PA (Chinook); Mesa, AZ (Apache)
• Northrop Grumman - Multiple locations (various platforms)
• Raytheon Technologies - Multiple locations (avionics systems)
• L3Harris - Nationwide (communication/avionics systems)
• BAE Systems - Multiple locations (aircraft upgrades)
• General Dynamics - Multiple locations (military aviation support)
• Collins Aerospace (RTX) - Multiple locations (avionics manufacturer)
• Honeywell Aerospace - Phoenix, AZ; Kansas City, MO (avionics systems)
• AECOM, KBR, Vectrus - Base support contracts worldwide

Certifications needed:

• Security clearance (Secret or TS—essential; worth $15K-$25K premium)
• A&P license (preferred but not always required for military aircraft work)
• Platform-specific training (employer-provided)

Reality check: Defense contractors specifically recruit 15F soldiers because you already know military aircraft electrical systems. If you worked on Apache as a 15F, Boeing wants you for Apache contractor support. Your training is exactly what they need.

Pay is higher than airlines initially, but advancement is less predictable. Contracts can end due to budget cuts. OCONUS work (Korea, Japan, Middle East, Europe) pays premium but means deployments away from family. Some contracts are CONUS-based supporting military depots and bases—home every night, still good pay.

Your clearance is gold. If you have active Secret or TS, prioritize jobs requiring it. Clearance adds $15,000-$25,000 to base salary and makes you highly competitive.

Best for: 15F veterans with active clearances, willingness to deploy (for OCONUS roles), and desire to continue working on military aircraft in civilian capacity.

3. Corporate/Business Aviation Avionics Technician

Civilian job titles:

• Corporate Avionics Technician
• Business Jet Electrician
• Avionics Installation Technician
• Completion Center Technician

Salary ranges:

• Entry-level: $60,000-$75,000
• Experienced (3-5 years): $75,000-$95,000
• Lead/Senior: $90,000-$115,000+

Top employers:

• Gulfstream Aerospace - Savannah, GA; Long Beach, CA; Appleton, WI; White Plains, NY
• Textron Aviation (Cessna/Beechcraft) - Wichita, KS
• Bombardier Business Aircraft - Wichita, KS; Hartford, CT
• Embraer Executive Jets - Melbourne, FL
• Dassault Falcon Jet - Teterboro, NJ; Little Rock, AR
• Duncan Aviation - Lincoln, NE; Battle Creek, MI (MRO/completion center)
• West Star Aviation - Multiple locations (MRO)
• Jet Aviation - Multiple FBOs nationwide
• FlexJet, NetJets, Solairus - Fractional ownership/charter operators

Certifications needed:

• FAA A&P license (required)
• FCC GROL (often required for avionics work)
• Manufacturer-specific training (Gulfstream, Bombardier, etc.—employer-provided)

Reality check: Corporate aviation offers better quality of life than airlines. Smaller fleets mean you work on fewer aircraft types and become highly specialized. Schedules are more predictable—often day shift with minimal weekends. Work environment is professional—you're maintaining aircraft for executives, celebrities, and high-net-worth individuals.

Pay is slightly lower than major airlines but competitive with regionals. The trade-off is better schedules and work environment. You're less likely to be working in -10°F weather at 2 AM. Completion centers (where new aircraft get custom interiors and avionics) pay well and offer interesting work installing cutting-edge technology.

Downside: Less job security than airlines (unions are rare). Economic downturns hit corporate aviation harder than commercial airlines.

Best for: 15F veterans wanting better work-life balance, predictable schedules, working on high-end aircraft with latest avionics, and willing to trade some salary for quality of life.

4. Aerospace Manufacturer Avionics Technician

Civilian job titles:

• Avionics Installation Technician
• Electrical Integration Specialist
• Test & Checkout Technician
• Avionics Systems Installer

Salary ranges:

• Entry-level: $60,000-$75,000
• Mid-level (3-5 years): $75,000-$95,000
• Senior/Specialized: $90,000-$115,000+

Top employers:

• Boeing - Seattle/Everett, WA; Charleston, SC; Renton, WA
• Lockheed Martin Aeronautics - Fort Worth, TX; Marietta, GA; Palmdale, CA
• Northrop Grumman - Palmdale, CA; Melbourne, FL
• Bell Textron - Fort Worth, TX; Amarillo, TX
• Sikorsky (Lockheed Martin) - Stratford, CT
• Leonardo Helicopters - Philadelphia, PA
• Spirit AeroSystems - Wichita, KS
• GE Aviation - Multiple locations
• Collins Aerospace - Cedar Rapids, IA; Windsor Locks, CT

Certifications needed:

• A&P license (preferred but not always required for production work)
• FCC GROL (for avionics work)
• IPC-A-610 (electronics assembly certification—employer often provides)

Reality check: Manufacturing work is different from maintenance. You're installing new avionics systems on production aircraft, not troubleshooting failures. The work is meticulous—running wire bundles, installing components per engineering drawings, performing continuity checks, and documenting installations.

Pay is competitive, schedules are predictable (usually day shift, occasional overtime), and benefits are solid. You're building aircraft, not fixing them. Some people love the precision work; others miss the variety of troubleshooting.

Best for: 15F veterans who enjoy installation work over troubleshooting, want predictable day-shift schedules, and prefer new-build aircraft over maintenance environments.

5. Avionics Repair Station / Bench Technician

Civilian job titles:

• Avionics Bench Repair Technician
• Component Overhaul Technician
• Avionics Shop Specialist
• Instrument Repair Technician

Salary ranges:

• Entry-level: $55,000-$70,000
• Experienced (3-5 years): $65,000-$85,000
• Senior/Specialized: $80,000-$105,000+

Top employers:

• Duncan Aviation - Lincoln, NE; Battle Creek, MI
• StandardAero - Miramar, FL; Sumner, WA; Augusta, GA
• AAR Corp - Multiple locations nationwide
• Able Engineering - Phoenix, AZ
• HAECO Americas - Greensboro, NC; Lake City, FL
• ST Engineering - Multiple locations
• Lufthansa Technik - Tulsa, OK
• Satcom Direct - Melbourne, FL (avionics installation/support)

Certifications needed:

• FCC GROL (often required)
• A&P license (helpful but not always required for bench work)
• IPC certifications (soldering, electronics assembly)
• Manufacturer certifications (Garmin, Honeywell, Collins, etc.)

Reality check: Bench work is highly specialized. You're repairing avionics components—radios, autopilots, flight directors, instruments—at component level. It requires excellent soldering skills, meticulous attention to detail, and patience for repetitive work.

Work environment is climate-controlled shops, not hangars or ramps. Schedules are predictable. Pay starts moderate but experienced technicians with manufacturer certifications (Garmin, Honeywell, Collins) earn solid money. Some shops offer incentive pay for productivity.

Best for: 15F veterans who enjoy detailed electronics work, prefer bench/shop environment over flight line, and have excellent soldering and component-level troubleshooting skills.

Required Certifications & Training

High Priority (Get These First)

FAA Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) License

• What it is: FAA mechanic certification for aircraft maintenance (airframe + powerplant)
• Cost: $20,000-$45,000 (school tuition); GI Bill covers most/all costs
• Time: 18-24 months full-time at Part 147 school; OR 30 months documented on-the-job experience
• Value: Required for airlines, most aerospace manufacturers, corporate aviation; increases salary 30-50%
• 15F advantage: Your electrical/avionics experience covers significant portions of the curriculum—you'll excel in electrical systems courses
• How to get it: Attend FAA Part 147 approved school (GI Bill eligible), pass 3 written exams, 2 practical exams, 2 oral exams
• ROI: Extremely high—adds $25,000-$40,000 to annual salary potential; opens airline and aerospace careers

FCC General Radiotelephone Operator License (GROL)

• What it is: FCC license for installing, maintaining, and operating aviation radio equipment
• Cost: $60 (exam fee)
• Time: 1-2 weeks self-study, 3-hour exam
• Value: Often required or strongly preferred for avionics technician roles; demonstrates competency in radio/electronics theory
• How to get it: Study using online materials or books ($30-$50), take exam at FCC testing center
• ROI: High—relatively easy certification that differentiates you for avionics-specific positions

Maintain/Reinstate Security Clearance (if you have one)

• What it is: Secret or Top Secret clearance from military service
• Cost: $0 if maintained; 12-18 months to reinvestigate if lapsed
• Value: Worth $15,000-$25,000 salary premium for defense contractor positions
• How to get it: Accept job requiring clearance within 2 years of separation
• ROI: Extremely high—clearance can add 20-30% to base salary for contractor work

Medium Priority (Industry-Specific)

IPC-A-610 (Acceptability of Electronic Assemblies) Certification

• What it is: Industry standard for electronics soldering and assembly
• Cost: $500-$1,500 (employer often provides)
• Value: Required for many aerospace manufacturing and repair roles
• ROI: Moderate—often employer-provided, but having it before applying makes you more competitive

Manufacturer-Specific Avionics Certifications

• Garmin Dealer Certifications: $1,000-$3,000; valuable for GA and corporate aviation
• Honeywell, Collins, Rockwell Collins certifications: Employer-provided in most cases
• Value: Differentiates you for specialized avionics work; some repair stations require specific certs

Inspection Authorization (IA)

• What it is: FAA authorization to perform annual inspections and approve major repairs/alterations
• Requirements: A&P license + 3 years experience + pass IA exam
• Value: Adds $10,000-$20,000 to annual salary; allows independent inspection work
• ROI: Good for long-term career; not relevant until 3+ years after A&P

Lower Priority (Nice to Have)

Associate's or Bachelor's Degree

• Aviation Maintenance Technology or Avionics/Electronics preferred
• Cost: $0 with GI Bill
• Value: Opens management track; some aerospace companies prefer degrees for engineering support roles
• ROI: Moderate for hands-on technician roles; higher for supervisory/management positions

FAA Repairman Certificate

• What it is: Allows specific maintenance tasks under supervision
• Value: Limited—A&P is far more valuable
• ROI: Low—invest time in A&P instead

Companies Actively Hiring 15F Veterans

Major Airlines (Avionics/Electrical)

Passenger Carriers:

1. Delta Air Lines - Atlanta, Minneapolis, Detroit, Los Angeles, New York, Seattle, Salt Lake City
2. United Airlines - Houston, Chicago, San Francisco, Newark, Denver, Washington Dulles
3. American Airlines - Dallas-Fort Worth, Charlotte, Miami, Phoenix, Philadelphia, Los Angeles
4. Southwest Airlines - Dallas Love Field, Phoenix, Baltimore, Chicago Midway, Houston Hobby
5. Alaska Airlines - Seattle, Portland, Anchorage, San Francisco, Los Angeles
6. JetBlue Airways - New York JFK, Boston, Fort Lauderdale, Orlando, Long Beach
7. Spirit Airlines - Miramar FL, Detroit, Las Vegas, Dallas-Fort Worth
8. Frontier Airlines - Denver, Las Vegas, Orlando
9. Allegiant Air - Las Vegas, multiple bases nationwide
10. Hawaiian Airlines - Honolulu, HI

Cargo Carriers: 11. FedEx Express - Memphis TN, Indianapolis, Newark, Oakland, Anchorage, Cologne Germany 12. UPS Airlines - Louisville KY, Rockford IL, Philadelphia, Ontario CA, Columbia SC 13. Atlas Air - Multiple bases worldwide 14. Kalitta Air - Ypsilanti MI, New York

Regional Airlines: 15. SkyWest Airlines - Multiple bases nationwide 16. Republic Airways - Indianapolis IN 17. Endeavor Air (Delta Connection) - Minneapolis, Detroit, New York 18. PSA Airlines (American Eagle) - Charlotte, Dayton 19. Envoy Air (American Eagle) - Dallas-Fort Worth, Chicago 20. Piedmont Airlines (American Eagle) - Salisbury MD, Charlotte

Defense Contractors (Military Aircraft Avionics)

Major Defense Primes: 21. Lockheed Martin Aeronautics - Fort Worth TX, Marietta GA, Palmdale CA 22. Lockheed Martin Sikorsky - Stratford CT, West Palm Beach FL 23. Boeing Defense - St. Louis MO, Mesa AZ, Philadelphia PA, Ridley Park PA 24. Northrop Grumman - Palmdale CA, Melbourne FL, Lake Charles LA 25. Raytheon Technologies - Tucson AZ, McKinney TX, Tewksbury MA 26. L3Harris Technologies - Greenville TX, Waco TX, Salt Lake City UT 27. General Dynamics - Multiple locations 28. BAE Systems - Nashua NH, Fort Worth TX, Johnson City NY 29. Textron Aviation Defense - Wichita KS 30. Leonardo DRS - Multiple locations

Avionics Manufacturers: 31. Collins Aerospace (RTX) - Cedar Rapids IA, Windsor Locks CT, Rockford IL 32. Honeywell Aerospace - Phoenix AZ, Olathe KS, Redmond WA 33. Garmin - Olathe KS, Salem OR 34. L3Harris - Multiple avionics facilities 35. Thales Avionics - Irvine CA, Tempe AZ

Base Support Contractors: 36. AECOM - Worldwide military base support 37. KBR - Fort Hood TX, Fort Bragg NC, OCONUS locations 38. Vectrus - Multiple military installations 39. SOSi (SOS International) - Worldwide aviation support 40. DynCorp International - Worldwide aviation maintenance

Corporate/Business Aviation

Manufacturers: 41. Gulfstream Aerospace - Savannah GA, Long Beach CA, Appleton WI, White Plains NY, Dallas TX 42. Bombardier Business Aircraft - Wichita KS, Hartford CT 43. Textron Aviation - Wichita KS (Cessna Citation, Beechcraft King Air) 44. Embraer Executive Jets - Melbourne FL, Fort Lauderdale FL 45. Dassault Falcon Jet - Teterboro NJ, Little Rock AR, Wilmington DE 46. Pilatus Business Aircraft - Broomfield CO 47. Honda Aircraft Company - Greensboro NC 48. Cirrus Aircraft - Duluth MN, Grand Forks ND

MRO & Completion Centers: 49. Duncan Aviation - Lincoln NE, Battle Creek MI, Provo UT 50. West Star Aviation - Grand Junction CO, East Alton IL, Chattanooga TN 51. Jet Aviation - Teterboro NJ, Van Nuys CA, Palm Beach FL 52. StandardAero - Scottsdale AZ, Teterboro NJ, Dallas TX 53. Stevens Aerospace - Greenville SC 54. Constant Aviation - Orlando FL, Cleveland OH 55. Elliott Aviation - Moline IL, Des Moines IA 56. Pentastar Aviation - Waterford MI

Fractional/Charter Operators: 57. NetJets - Columbus OH (plus 20+ bases nationwide) 58. Flexjet - Dallas TX, Cleveland OH (plus bases nationwide) 59. VistaJet - Multiple bases 60. Solairus Aviation - Multiple bases nationwide

MRO Providers & Repair Stations

Major MRO Facilities: 61. AAR Corp - Indianapolis IN, Oklahoma City OK, Miami FL, Rockford IL 62. ST Engineering - Mobile AL, San Antonio TX, Pensacola FL 63. HAECO Americas - Greensboro NC, Lake City FL 64. StandardAero - Multiple locations (business & commercial aviation) 65. Lufthansa Technik - Tulsa OK, Puerto Rico 66. Air Canada Technical Services - Winnipeg, Vancouver, Montreal 67. Delta TechOps - Atlanta GA (also hires external MRO customers) 68. AerSale - Goodyear AZ, Roswell NM, Miami FL 69. Kellstrom Defense Aerospace - Sunrise FL 70. Aviation Technical Services - Everett WA, Oscoda MI

Avionics-Specific Repair Stations: 71. Able Engineering - Phoenix AZ, Mesa AZ 72. Advanced Aerospace Solutions - Multiple locations 73. Satcom Direct - Melbourne FL (avionics installation/support) 74. Mid-Continent Instruments and Avionics - Wichita KS 75. Garmin AT - Olathe KS (factory service centers nationwide) 76. Honeywell Aerospace Repair & Overhaul - Multiple locations 77. Aviall Services - Dallas TX (Boeing company) 78. Landmark Aviation - Multiple FBO locations with maintenance

Aerospace Manufacturers (Production)

Fixed-Wing: 79. Boeing Commercial Airplanes - Renton WA, Everett WA, Charleston SC 80. Airbus Americas - Mobile AL 81. Spirit AeroSystems - Wichita KS, Tulsa OK 82. GE Aviation - Cincinnati OH, Durham NC, Multiple locations 83. Pratt & Whitney - East Hartford CT, Columbus GA

Rotorcraft: 84. Bell Textron - Fort Worth TX, Amarillo TX 85. Sikorsky (Lockheed Martin) - Stratford CT, Troy AL, Coatesville PA 86. Leonardo Helicopters - Philadelphia PA 87. Airbus Helicopters - Grand Prairie TX, Columbus MS 88. MD Helicopters - Mesa AZ 89. Robinson Helicopter - Torrance CA

Government/Federal Civilian

DOD Depots & Facilities: 90. Corpus Christi Army Depot - Corpus Christi TX (helicopter maintenance) 91. Tobyhanna Army Depot - Tobyhanna PA (avionics/electronics) 92. Anniston Army Depot - Anniston AL 93. Fleet Readiness Centers (Navy) - Jacksonville FL, San Diego CA, Cherry Point NC 94. Warner Robins Air Logistics Complex (Air Force) - Warner Robins GA 95. Tinker Air Force Base - Oklahoma City OK 96. Hill Air Force Base - Ogden UT

Civilian Agencies: 97. FAA - Flight Standards District Offices nationwide (avionics inspectors) 98. CBP Air and Marine - Multiple locations nationwide 99. Department of Interior - Boise ID, Fort Collins CO (aviation support) 100. NOAA Aircraft Operations - MacDill AFB FL, Lakeland FL

Salary Expectations by Experience Level

Entry-Level (0-2 Years Civilian Experience)

Avionics Technician (with A&P): $65,000-$80,000

• Regional airlines, smaller MRO facilities, corporate aviation
• Night shift likely initially at airlines
• Union protection at airlines, clear advancement path

Avionics Technician (without A&P): $50,000-$65,000

• Defense contractors (if military aircraft experience matches)
• Bench repair technicians
• Manufacturing/production roles
• Limited advancement without A&P

Government Civilian (GS-09/10): $55,000-$70,000 base

• Plus locality pay (adds 15-35% in high-cost areas)
• Veteran preference helps hiring
• Stability, benefits, pension

Mid-Level (3-5 Years Civilian Experience)

Airline Avionics Technician (A&P + experience): $80,000-$100,000

• Major carriers: $85,000-$105,000+
• Regional carriers: $70,000-$85,000
• Better shifts available with seniority
• Overtime opportunities (time-and-a-half, double-time)

Defense Contractor (Senior Technician): $85,000-$110,000

• Specialized platforms, experienced on military systems
• Active clearance adds $10K-$20K premium
• OCONUS assignments pay more ($95K-$130K)

Corporate Aviation (Experienced): $75,000-$95,000

• Business jet manufacturers or completion centers
• Predictable schedules, day shift
• Specialized avionics systems

MRO Supervisor/Lead: $80,000-$100,000

• Leading teams of 3-8 technicians
• Responsibility for quality and scheduling
• Both technical and management duties

Senior-Level (5+ Years Civilian Experience)

Airline Senior Avionics Technician: $95,000-$120,000+

• Major carriers with seniority
• Day shift, better stations/bases
• With overtime: $120,000-$150,000+ total comp
• Lead or inspector positions available

Airline Avionics Inspector (with IA): $100,000-$130,000+

• Inspection Authorization adds $10K-$20K
• Higher responsibility, less hands-on work
• Required for annual inspections and major repairs

Defense Contractor (Subject Matter Expert): $100,000-$130,000+

• Platform specialist (e.g., Apache electrical systems expert)
• Training, technical support, field service
• Clearance + specialized knowledge = premium pay

Corporate Aviation Chief Inspector: $90,000-$115,000

• Smaller corporate flight departments
• Responsible for entire maintenance program
• Mix of hands-on and oversight

Aerospace Manufacturing Supervisor: $90,000-$115,000

• Managing production teams
• Quality oversight, schedule adherence
• Less hands-on, more management

Geographic Salary Variations

Highest Paying Regions (Airline/Aerospace):

• Seattle-Tacoma, WA: Add 15-25% (Boeing, Alaska Airlines, aerospace)
• San Francisco Bay Area: Add 25-40% (but cost of living extreme)
• Los Angeles/Southern California: Add 15-25% (aerospace corridor)
• New York Metro: Add 20-30% (JetBlue, corporate aviation)
• Washington DC Metro: Add 20-30% (government contractors, locality pay)

Strong Markets with Moderate Cost of Living:

• Dallas-Fort Worth, TX: Add 5-15% (American, Bell, aerospace—excellent value)
• Atlanta, GA: Add 5-15% (Delta TechOps, Gulfstream, Lockheed)
• Phoenix, AZ: Add 5-10% (aerospace, airlines, MRO facilities)
• Denver, CO: Add 10-15% (United, Frontier, aerospace)
• Minneapolis, MN: Add 5-10% (Delta hub, Sun Country)

Best Cost-of-Living Value:

• Wichita, KS: Base salary (Textron, Spirit AeroSystems, low cost of living)
• Oklahoma City, OK: Base to +5% (Tinker AFB, AAR, low cost of living)
• Huntsville, AL: Base to +5% (defense contractors, low cost of living)
• San Antonio, TX: Base to +5% (military, contractors, low cost of living)

Resume Translation for 15F Veterans

Before (Military Jargon):

• "15F Aircraft Electrician, 5 years experience"
• "Performed maintenance on UH-60 electrical systems"
• "Maintained aircraft readiness"

After (Civilian Translation):

• "Avionics and Electrical Systems Technician with 5+ years maintaining electrical, navigation, communication, and flight control systems on military helicopters valued at $20M+"
• "Diagnosed and repaired AC/DC electrical systems, avionics, instrumentation, and flight control components on UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters achieving 97% operational readiness"
• "Ensured airworthiness of 15-aircraft fleet through systematic troubleshooting, component replacement, and meticulous documentation meeting Army aviation standards"

10 Resume Bullet Points (Copy and Customize):

1. "Maintained and repaired electrical, avionics, navigation, and communication systems on 15+ military helicopters (UH-60/AH-64/CH-47) valued at $300M+, achieving 97% mission readiness across 500+ flight hours monthly"

   • Shows fleet size, aircraft value, and performance metric

2. "Diagnosed complex electrical faults using multimeters, oscilloscopes, and meggers, reducing average troubleshooting time 35% through systematic isolation and component-level analysis"

   • Demonstrates technical capability and measurable improvement

3. "Installed, calibrated, and repaired avionics systems including communication radios, navigation equipment, flight directors, and autopilot systems worth $50,000+ per aircraft"

   • Shows avionics-specific experience and component values

4. "Interpreted and applied complex wiring diagrams, technical manuals, and schematic drawings to trace electrical circuits through airframes and isolate faults to component level"

   • Critical skill for civilian avionics work

5. "Performed continuity checks, resistance testing, and voltage measurements on AC (115V) and DC (24/28V) electrical systems, ensuring all circuits met engineering specifications"

   • Specific technical detail valuable for avionics roles

6. "Maintained 100% accountability for 800+ tools, test equipment, and avionics components totaling $3M+ with zero losses across 48-month period"

   • Shows responsibility and attention to detail

7. "Documented all maintenance actions in aircraft logbooks and DA Forms in accordance with Army aviation regulations, achieving 100% audit compliance across 30+ inspections"

   • Relevant for FAA-regulated civilian aviation

8. "Trained and mentored 6 junior electricians on troubleshooting procedures, safety protocols, and quality standards, improving team efficiency 30%"

   • Demonstrates leadership and training ability

9. "Followed lockout/tagout procedures and electrical safety protocols when working on energized systems, maintaining zero electrical safety incidents across 2,000+ maintenance actions"

   • Safety consciousness is critical in civilian aviation

10. "Collaborated with pilots, crew chiefs, and quality assurance inspectors to diagnose intermittent electrical faults and ensure airworthiness before flight release"

    • Shows teamwork and mission focus

Key Resume Tips:

• Quantify everything: Number of aircraft, dollar values, readiness percentages, flight hours supported
• Translate systems: "UH-60 electrical systems" → "28V DC electrical generation and distribution, AC inverter systems, flight control electrical components"
• Highlight relevant skills: Avionics, electrical troubleshooting, wiring diagrams, test equipment
• Include certifications: FCC GROL, A&P (if obtained), IPC certifications
• Mention clearance: "Active Secret Security Clearance" if current

Transition Timeline: Your First 12 Months

6-12 Months Before Separation

Months 6-9: Critical Decision

• Decide on A&P: This is the single most important career decision. Airlines, major aerospace, corporate aviation require A&P. Without it, your options narrow significantly.
  • Yes to A&P: Apply to FAA Part 147 schools, submit GI Bill paperwork, plan for 18-24 month commitment after separation
  • No to A&P: Target defense contractors working military aircraft, avionics repair stations, or manufacturing roles that don't require A&P

Month 6-8: Certifications

• Take FCC GROL exam ($60)—1-2 weeks study, easy for 15F background
• Document all aircraft you've worked on (UH-60, AH-64, CH-47, etc.)—specific models matter
• Inventory your clearance level and expiration date
• Get copies of training certificates (military schools, manufacturer training)

Month 9-12: Applications Begin

• If pursuing A&P: Research schools, visit campuses if possible, submit applications
• If not pursuing A&P: Start applying to defense contractors, manufacturing, repair stations
• Set up LinkedIn—connect with 50+ veterans in aviation maintenance
• Attend virtual job fairs targeting military aviation professionals
• Contact SkillBridge coordinator for potential internships

3-6 Months Before Separation

SkillBridge Opportunity:

• Apply for SkillBridge internship (last 180 days)—work civilian job while still getting military pay
• Airlines (Delta TechOps, United, American), Boeing, Lockheed Martin, MRO companies offer SkillBridge
• Often leads to job offer after separation

Job Search (if not doing A&P immediately):

• Apply to 30-50 positions across defense contractors, airlines (if you have A&P), corporate aviation
• Register on ClearanceJobs.com if you have clearance
• Tailor resume for each application—match keywords from job posting
• Practice interview questions (see section below)

Final Preparation:

• Get 10 copies of DD-214
• Ensure certifications are documented (FCC GROL, military training)
• Build network—informational interviews with people at target companies

First 90 Days After Separation (If Not in A&P School)

Immediate Priority:

• Accept first reasonable offer if you don't have something lined up
• Entry-level avionics tech at $55K-$65K beats unemployment
• Easier to job search while employed

If Unemployed:

• Apply to 10+ positions per week
• Temporary/contract work through aviation staffing agencies
• Continue networking aggressively

If Employed:

• Document your work for future resume updates
• Build professional network in company
• Identify advancement opportunities

Months 4-12

Career Assessment:

• Are you underpaid relative to market? (Use Glassdoor, Salary.com to check)
• If you skipped A&P initially, reconsider—is it worth investing 18 months now for long-term gain?
• Lateral moves to better-paying companies after 6-12 months experience

Skill Building:

• Manufacturer certifications (Garmin, Honeywell, etc.) if working avionics
• Consider starting A&P school part-time (evening/online programs exist)

Job Search Strategy

Where to Find Jobs

Aviation-Specific Job Boards:

• JSfirm.com - Best for aviation maintenance jobs (300+ avionics listings)
• AVJobs.com - Aviation industry focus
• AirlineApps.com - Airline-specific applications

Veteran Job Boards:

• ClearanceJobs.com - Best for defense contractors (if you have clearance)
• Hire Our Heroes - Military-friendly companies
• RecruitMilitary.com - Veteran job fairs

General Job Boards:

• Indeed.com - Search "avionics technician," "aircraft electrician"
• LinkedIn Jobs - Set alerts for keywords
• Glassdoor - Research salaries and company reviews

Company Career Pages:

• Apply direct: Delta, United, American, Southwest, Boeing, Lockheed Martin, etc. all have veteran hiring programs

Application Strategy

Tailor Your Resume:

• Match job posting keywords exactly (ATS systems scan for specific terms)
• If posting says "avionics troubleshooting," use those exact words
• Quantify everything

Cover Letter:

• 3 paragraphs: Why this company, why you're qualified, call to action
• Mention 15F MOS and specific systems (UH-60 electrical, AH-64 avionics, etc.)
• Keep to 250-300 words

Follow Up:

• LinkedIn connection request to hiring manager with polite note referencing application
• Follow up after 7-10 days

Networking (Most Important)

LinkedIn:

• Join groups: "Aviation Maintenance Professionals," "Military Transition," company alumni groups
• Engage with content—comment, share articles
• Ask for informational interviews (15-minute calls)

Veteran Organizations:

• Professional Aviation Maintenance Association (PAMA) - Networking, education
• Aircraft Electronics Association (AEA) - Avionics-specific
• Hire Heroes USA - Free career coaching

Industry Events:

• MRO Americas - Maintenance conference (job fair component)
• NBAA (National Business Aviation Association) - Corporate aviation
• Regional aviation job fairs

Interview Preparation

Common Technical Questions

1. "Walk me through troubleshooting an intermittent electrical fault."

   • STAR method: Situation (aircraft write-up), Task (isolate fault), Action (systematic checks, documentation), Result (fault found, component replaced)

2. "What avionics systems have you worked on?"

   • Be specific: "Communication radios (VHF/UHF/HF), navigation equipment (GPS, VOR/ILS), flight directors, autopilot systems, flight control computers"

3. "How do you read wiring diagrams and schematics?"

   • Explain your process: identify power sources, trace circuits, use multimeter to verify, check connectors and pins

4. "What test equipment are you proficient with?"

   • List specific tools: "Multimeters (Fluke 87V), oscilloscopes, meggers (insulation resistance testers), signal generators, continuity testers"

5. "Tell me about a time you had a safety issue. What did you do?"

   • Example demonstrating safety consciousness, stopping work, reporting to supervision, correcting issue

6. "Why are you interested in this position?"

   • Research company, specific programs/aircraft, align your skills with their needs

7. "Do you have your A&P license? If not, are you willing to pursue it?"

   • Be honest—if you don't have it, express timeline and commitment

8. "How do you handle working independently vs. as part of a team?"

   • Examples of both

9. "What's your experience with technical documentation?"

   • Maintenance logbooks, forms, work orders, 100% accuracy and compliance

10. "Describe a complex problem you solved with limited information."

    • Deployed scenario, systematic troubleshooting, resourcefulness

Interview Tips

Before:

• Research company—aircraft they operate, recent news
• Prepare 3-5 questions for them
• Bring copies of resume, certifications, DD-214

During:

• Translate military jargon
• Show enthusiasm
• Be honest about knowledge gaps
• Ask about training, advancement

After:

• Thank-you email within 24 hours
• Follow up after 5-7 days if no response

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Delaying A&P Decision - Decide within 90 days of separation. Procrastination costs you time and money.

2. Letting Clearance Lapse - If you have clearance, accept contractor job within 2 years. Reinvestigation takes 12-18 months.

3. Underselling Experience - "Fixed electrical problems" vs "Diagnosed and repaired complex AC/DC electrical systems on $20M+ aircraft"

4. Not Getting FCC GROL - It's $60 and a weekend of study. Get it.

5. Only Applying to Dream Jobs - Apply to 50+ positions. You need backup options.

6. Geographic Inflexibility - Aviation jobs cluster in specific locations. Be willing to relocate.

7. Waiting Until Last Minute - Start 6-12 months before separation. Airline hiring takes 2-4 months.

Success Stories

Case Study 1: Marcus, 28, E-5 → United Airlines Avionics Technician

Background: 6 years as 15F, worked UH-60 and AH-64, separated as E-5

Transition: Decided on A&P route. Used GI Bill for 18-month program at Aviation Institute of Maintenance. Worked part-time at avionics shop during school ($15/hr). Got A&P license.

First Job: Hired by United Airlines at $72,000 (Chicago). Night shift, worked holidays/weekends initially.

Three Years Later: Day shift, making $92,000 + overtime (total comp $110,000+). On track for $100K+ base within 5 years.

Key Factors: A&P investment, patient with career progression, union benefits

Case Study 2: Sarah, 30, E-6 → Lockheed Martin Avionics Technician

Background: 8 years as 15F, worked AH-64, held Secret clearance, separated as E-6

Transition: Didn't want 18 months in A&P school. Targeted defense contractors working Apache. Applied to Lockheed, Boeing, Northrop Grumman.

First Job: Lockheed Martin hired her as Avionics Technician supporting Apache program at $84,000 (Mesa, AZ). Her 15F Apache experience was exactly what they needed.

Two Years Later: Promoted to Senior Avionics Tech at $98,000. Working day shift, home every night.

Key Factors: Active clearance, Apache-specific experience, targeted right companies

Case Study 3: David, 33, E-7 → Gulfstream Corporate Aviation

Background: 11 years as 15F, separated as E-7, wanted work-life balance for family

Transition: Got A&P while still in (used Credentialing Assistance + evening classes at community college over 2 years). Had A&P before separation.

First Job: Gulfstream hired him at $78,000 (Savannah, GA) as Avionics Technician working business jets.

18 Months Later: $85,000, day shift, working on cutting-edge G650 avionics. Better quality of life than airlines (no shift work), interesting technology, professional environment.

Key Factors: A&P before separation, targeted corporate aviation for lifestyle

Education Options

FAA Part 147 A&P Schools (GI Bill Eligible)

Top Programs:

• Aviation Institute of Maintenance - Multiple locations; 18-21 months; $30,000-$40,000 (GI Bill covers)
• Spartan College of Aeronautics - Tulsa OK, Denver CO; 18 months
• NEIT (New England Tech) - Warwick RI; Associate degree + A&P
• Embry-Riddle - Daytona Beach FL, Prescott AZ
• Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics - Pittsburgh PA

Cost: $20,000-$45,000 (GI Bill covers tuition + housing allowance) Time: 18-24 months full-time Outcome: FAA A&P license qualifying you for airlines, aerospace, corporate aviation

Alternative: Experience Route

30 months documented experience working on aircraft, then take FAA exams. Finding apprenticeship positions difficult. School is faster and more reliable.

Geographic Considerations: Top 10 Cities

1. Atlanta, GA - Delta TechOps (largest airline maintenance), Gulfstream, Lockheed
2. Dallas-Fort Worth, TX - American Airlines, Bell, aerospace—excellent cost of living
3. Seattle-Tacoma, WA - Boeing, Alaska Airlines, aerospace corridor
4. Phoenix, AZ - Boeing (Apache), airlines, MRO facilities, good weather
5. Houston, TX - United hub, aerospace, corporate aviation
6. San Diego, CA - Defense contractors, corporate aviation, Navy/Marine Corps
7. Wichita, KS - Textron, Spirit, low cost of living
8. Chicago, IL - United, Boeing, multiple airlines
9. Charlotte, NC - American hub, aerospace
10. San Francisco Bay Area, CA - United, corporate aviation, high pay (high cost of living)

Resources

• Army Credentialing Assistance: $4,000/year for certifications
• GI Bill: 36 months tuition + housing for A&P school
• SkillBridge: Last 180 days civilian job while getting military pay
• ClearanceJobs.com: Defense contractor jobs
• JSfirm.com: Aviation maintenance jobs
• Hire Heroes USA: Free career coaching

Next Steps: Execute

This Week:

• Decide on A&P license (yes or no)
• Get FCC GROL exam scheduled ($60)
• Create LinkedIn profile
• Apply to 5 jobs (practice)

This Month:

• If A&P: Research schools, submit GI Bill paperwork
• If no A&P: Apply to 30+ defense contractor/manufacturing jobs
• Get 10 copies DD-214
• Connect with 20 veterans in aviation on LinkedIn

Next 3 Months:

• Continue applications
• Network aggressively
• Attend job fairs
• Complete FCC GROL if not done

Next 6-12 Months:

• Accept first good offer
• If A&P route: Begin school
• Build professional network
• Document achievements for resume

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Your 15F electrical and avionics expertise is in high demand. Airlines need you. Aerospace companies need you. Defense contractors need you.

First job: $65,000-$80,000. Within 5 years with A&P: $90,000-$110,000+. Execute the plan.

Ready to start? Use the Military Transition Toolkit to track your certifications and transition timeline.