Army 91M (Bradley Fighting Vehicle System Maintainer) to Civilian: Complete Career Transition Guide (2025 Salary Data)
Complete transition roadmap for Army 91M Bradley Fighting Vehicle System Maintainers. Includes verified salary ranges $55K-$110K+, diesel mechanic, heavy equipment technician, defense contractor, armored vehicle careers with certifications and companies actively hiring veterans.
Bottom Line Up Front
Army 91M Bradley Fighting Vehicle System Maintainers—you didn't just fix tracked vehicles. You diagnosed and repaired complex integrated systems on one of the most sophisticated fighting vehicles in the world: turbocharged diesel engines, automatic transmissions, hydraulic suspension and turret systems, electrical networks with multiple computers and sensors, fire control systems, 25mm Bushmaster cannon systems, TOW missile launchers, NBC protection systems, and track/road wheel assemblies under combat conditions. Your advanced troubleshooting skills on diesel powertrains, hydraulic systems, electrical diagnostics, weapons systems integration, computer-controlled systems, and ability to perform complex repairs under pressure translate directly into high-demand civilian careers. Realistic first-year salaries range from $50,000-$65,000 in heavy equipment or diesel mechanic roles, scaling to $70,000-$95,000 with ASE certifications and specialized technical skills. Defense contractors, senior field service technicians, and armored vehicle specialists can earn $85,000-$120,000+. You maintained $3+ million fighting vehicles—civilian employers need that expertise.
Your 91M experience translates into six high-demand civilian career paths: diesel and heavy equipment mechanic (construction, mining, agriculture), defense contractor vehicle technician (military vehicle maintenance at defense companies), heavy-duty truck and fleet technician (commercial trucks, buses, emergency vehicles), industrial maintenance technician (manufacturing plants requiring hydraulic and electrical expertise), field service technician (on-site heavy equipment and machinery repair), and armored vehicle technician (law enforcement, security, and specialty vehicle companies). All of these fields value your advanced technical training and systems integration knowledge.
The timeline is achievable: Immediate hire possible with your Bradley experience at $50K-$65K; 6-12 months to earn ASE diesel certifications and reach $65K-$80K; 2-3 years to become senior technician or field service specialist earning $75K-$95K; 5-7 years to reach specialized roles like defense contractor senior technician ($85K-$110K+) or fleet maintenance supervisor ($90K-$115K). BAE Systems, General Dynamics, Oshkosh Defense, heavy equipment dealers, and diesel fleet companies are actively hiring veterans with your background NOW.
What Does an Army 91M Do?
As a Bradley Fighting Vehicle System Maintainer, you performed field and sustainment maintenance on the M2/M3 Bradley Infantry/Cavalry Fighting Vehicle and its variants—one of the Army's most complex and technologically advanced combat systems. You weren't working on simple vehicles—you maintained integrated systems including:
Powerpack systems: Cummins VTA-903T 600 HP turbocharged diesel engine, Hydromechanical X-1100-5B automatic transmission with 3-speed transfer case, cooling systems, fuel systems, air intake and filtration, and exhaust systems.
Suspension and mobility systems: Hydropneumatic suspension units, torsion bars, track assemblies with replaceable pads, road wheels, support rollers, idlers, final drives, steering differential, and braking systems.
Electrical and electronic systems: 28VDC electrical system, multiple computers and controllers, Integrated Sight Unit (ISU), fire control computer, ballistic computer, laser rangefinder, thermal imaging systems, communications systems, and complex wiring harnesses.
Turret and weapons systems: 25mm M242 Bushmaster chain gun, 7.62mm coax machine gun, TOW missile launcher system, hydraulic turret drive, fire suppression system, ammunition feed systems, and weapons station electronics.
Auxiliary systems: NBC overpressure system, heating and cooling, hydraulic ramp operation, crew stations, and ancillary equipment.
You diagnosed failures using Built-In Test Equipment (BITE), diagnostic software, multimeters, hydraulic test equipment, and technical manuals. You performed everything from track replacement and engine/transmission removal to troubleshooting intermittent electrical faults and weapons system malfunctions. When a Bradley went deadlined, commanders counted on you to diagnose the problem and get it back in the fight.
Skills You've Developed
Technical Skills (Directly Transferable)
Diesel engine diagnosis and repair: You maintained the Cummins VTA-903T turbocharged diesel—a large-displacement, high-performance engine. Fuel system troubleshooting, turbocharger service, cooling system repair, and engine diagnostics translate directly to heavy equipment and commercial diesel technician roles earning $60K-$85K+.
Automatic transmission and drivetrain repair: You serviced complex powershift transmissions, transfer cases, final drives, steering differentials, and braking systems—skills valuable for heavy equipment, construction machinery, and commercial truck technician careers.
Hydraulic systems troubleshooting: You diagnosed and repaired hydraulic suspension systems, turret drives, ramp operations, and hydraulic controls—core skills for construction equipment, mining machinery, and industrial maintenance roles requiring advanced hydraulic expertise.
Electrical and electronic diagnostics: You traced circuits, tested sensors and controllers, diagnosed CAN bus systems, repaired wiring harnesses, and used diagnostic software—critical for modern heavy equipment, trucks, and industrial machinery with electronic controls.
Computer-controlled systems: You troubleshot integrated fire control computers, ballistic computers, and electronic controllers—exactly the type of advanced diagnostics needed for modern diesel equipment with DEF systems, emissions controls, and computerized engines.
Track and undercarriage maintenance: You replaced track, road wheels, support rollers, and suspension components on tracked vehicles—directly applicable to excavator, dozer, and tracked equipment maintenance in construction and mining.
Preventive maintenance programs: You followed complex TMs, performed scheduled services, documented maintenance actions, and tracked equipment readiness—foundation of reliability-centered maintenance (RCM) programs in all industries.
Technical manual and schematic interpretation: You read wiring diagrams, hydraulic schematics, and complex technical publications—translates to using manufacturer service information in dealerships and repair facilities.
Soft Skills (Equally Valuable)
Complex systems troubleshooting: When a Bradley had multiple interrelated failures (electrical fault affecting fire control affecting weapons system), you systematically diagnosed root causes—that's advanced problem-solving that senior technicians and field service specialists need.
Accountability for high-value equipment: You maintained $3+ million fighting vehicles and ensured combat readiness—civilian employers need technicians with that sense of responsibility and ownership.
Adaptability and improvisation: You performed field repairs with limited parts, improvised solutions, and kept equipment operational in austere environments—skills that translate to field service and remote maintenance roles.
Training and mentorship: You trained junior soldiers on complex systems, troubleshooting procedures, and safety protocols—preparation for senior technician and supervisor roles requiring leadership.
Attention to detail and safety: You worked on weapons systems, high-pressure hydraulics, electrical systems, and life-support equipment following strict safety and technical standards—critical for industries requiring precision and regulatory compliance.
Top Civilian Career Paths for 91M Veterans
Diesel Mechanic and Heavy Equipment Technician (Most Direct Path)
Civilian job titles:
- Diesel Mechanic
- Heavy-Duty Diesel Technician
- Heavy Equipment Technician
- Construction Equipment Mechanic
- Fleet Diesel Mechanic
- Mobile Heavy Equipment Technician
Salary ranges (2024-2025 data):
- Entry-level Diesel Technician (0-2 years): $50,000-$60,000
- Experienced Diesel Tech (3-5 years, ASE certs): $60,000-$75,000
- Senior Technician/Specialist: $70,000-$90,000
- Shop Foreman/Lead Technician: $75,000-$95,000
- Service Manager: $85,000-$110,000+
What translates directly: Your Cummins diesel engine experience, automatic transmission work, hydraulic systems knowledge, and electrical diagnostics are exactly what heavy equipment and diesel truck employers need. Modern construction equipment uses the same technologies—turbocharged diesels, powershift transmissions, electronic controls, hydraulic systems.
Certifications needed:
- ASE Heavy-Duty Truck Certifications (T series): T2 (Diesel Engines), T3 (Drivetrain), T4 (Brakes), T5 (Suspension/Steering), T6 (Electrical Systems). $112 per advanced test. Master Diesel Technician status (4-8 tests) significantly increases pay.
- Manufacturer certifications: Caterpillar, John Deere, Komatsu, Cummins. Often employer-provided.
- OSHA 10/30 Safety: $50-$200. Required by many employers.
- EPA 609 Mobile A/C: $20-$50. Required for HVAC work on equipment/trucks.
Companies actively hiring:
- Heavy equipment dealers: Caterpillar, John Deere, Komatsu, Case, Volvo dealers nationwide
- Equipment rental companies: United Rentals, Sunbelt Rentals, Herc Rentals (1,500+ locations)
- Transportation and logistics: UPS, FedEx, XPO Logistics, Schneider, J.B. Hunt (fleet maintenance)
- Truck rental companies: Penske, Ryder, Enterprise Truck Rental
- Construction companies: Bechtel, Kiewit, Fluor, Turner Construction, Skanska
- Mining operations: BHP, Rio Tinto, Freeport-McMoRan, Peabody Energy
- Waste management: Republic Services, Waste Management Inc. (refuse truck fleets)
- School districts: Bus maintenance departments (stable, government benefits)
- Municipal fleets: City and county public works departments
Reality check: Diesel and heavy equipment work is hands-on and can be physically demanding (climbing, lifting, outdoor work). But demand is strong, pay is solid with certifications, overtime is common, and career advancement to supervision is realistic. Many companies offer tool allowances, company vehicles, manufacturer training, and strong benefits.
Best for: 91Ms who want immediate employment using diesel engine and hydraulic skills, prefer hands-on technical work, and want steady careers with advancement opportunities.
Defense Contractor Vehicle Technician (Highest Pay, Specialized)
Civilian job titles:
- Military Vehicle Technician
- Tactical Vehicle Mechanic
- Combat Systems Technician
- Armored Vehicle Specialist
- Defense Vehicle Maintenance Technician
- Field Service Representative (military vehicles)
Salary ranges (2024-2025 data):
- Entry-level Defense Vehicle Tech: $60,000-$75,000
- Experienced Contractor Technician (3-5 years): $75,000-$95,000
- Senior Field Service Rep: $90,000-$115,000
- Technical Specialist/Lead: $100,000-$130,000+
Overseas contractor positions (OCONUS):
- LOGCAP/AFCAP vehicle maintenance: $80,000-$110,000+ (tax advantages for overseas work)
- Combat vehicle maintenance (deployed locations): $100,000-$140,000+ (high-threat premium)
What translates directly: Everything. Defense contractors maintain Bradley Fighting Vehicles, M1 Abrams tanks, Strykers, MRAPs, and other military vehicles. Your Bradley experience IS the job qualification. You'll work at military installations, depots, or deployed locations supporting active-duty units.
Certifications valuable:
- Active Secret or Top Secret clearance (maintain if you have it—worth $10K-$20K in salary)
- ASE certifications (demonstrates technical competency)
- Manufacturer-specific training: BAE Systems, General Dynamics training (often employer-provided)
- Valid passport: Required for OCONUS positions
Companies actively hiring:
- BAE Systems (Bradley manufacturer, depot maintenance, field support)
- General Dynamics Land Systems (Abrams, Stryker support)
- Oshkosh Defense (tactical vehicles, JLTV, MRAP)
- AM General (HMMWV, JLTV support)
- Navistar Defense (MaxxPro MRAP, truck support)
- LOGCAP/AFCAP contractors: KBR, Fluor, Vectrus, Amentum (base operations support OCONUS)
- Depot-level maintenance contractors: Supporting Army depots (Red River, Anniston, Letterkenny)
- Training support contractors: Supporting Army training bases (Fort Benning, Fort Hood, Fort Bliss, NTC, JRTC)
Reality check: Defense contractor work offers excellent pay and directly uses your Bradley skills. CONUS positions (supporting bases in the U.S.) offer stable employment, regular hours, and strong benefits. OCONUS positions (deployed to combat zones or overseas installations) pay significantly more but require extended rotations away from home (3-6-12 months). Security clearances are often required. Work can be cyclical based on defense budgets and contracts.
Best for: 91Ms who want to continue working on military vehicles, maximize earnings using specialized Bradley experience, and are comfortable with defense contractor employment (potential for OCONUS rotations).
Heavy-Duty Truck and Fleet Technician
Civilian job titles:
- Heavy-Duty Truck Technician
- Fleet Maintenance Technician
- Commercial Vehicle Technician
- Class 8 Truck Mechanic
- Transportation Equipment Technician
Salary ranges (2024-2025 data):
- Entry-level Truck Technician: $48,000-$58,000
- Experienced Truck Tech (3-5 years, ASE Master): $60,000-$78,000
- Senior Technician/Diagnostics Specialist: $70,000-$90,000
- Fleet Maintenance Supervisor: $75,000-$95,000
- Fleet Maintenance Manager: $85,000-$115,000+
What translates directly: Your diesel engine, drivetrain, electrical, and hydraulic skills apply perfectly to commercial trucks (Freightliner, Peterbilt, Kenworth, Volvo, Mack). Trucks use similar Cummins, Detroit, and Caterpillar engines, Eaton or Allison transmissions, air brake systems, and electronic controls.
Certifications needed:
- ASE Truck Certifications (T series): T1-T8 covering all truck systems. Master Truck Technician status increases pay $10K-$15K.
- EPA 609: Mobile A/C for trucks.
- CDL (optional but valuable): Test-driving trucks after repair.
- Manufacturer certifications: Freightliner, Volvo, Mack training programs.
Companies actively hiring:
- Trucking and logistics companies: UPS, FedEx, XPO, Old Dominion, Estes Express, ABF Freight
- Truck rental/leasing: Penske Truck Leasing, Ryder System, Enterprise Truck Rental
- Dealerships: Freightliner, Peterbilt, Kenworth, Volvo, Mack truck dealers nationwide
- Food and beverage distribution: Sysco, McLane, US Foods (large truck fleets)
- Retail distribution: Walmart, Target, Costco, Amazon (fleet maintenance at DCs)
- Waste management: Republic Services, Waste Management (refuse truck fleets)
- Utilities companies: Power companies, gas/water utilities (bucket trucks, service fleets)
Reality check: Truck technician work is steady, with less weather dependency than construction equipment. Many large fleet operators offer strong benefits, regular schedules, and clear advancement paths. Pay with ASE Master Technician status at major carriers or dealerships is $70K-$90K+. Union shops (Teamsters, UAW) often pay higher.
Best for: 91Ms who want stable employment, steady schedules, strong benefits, and prefer working on trucks over construction equipment or military vehicles.
Industrial Maintenance Technician (Multi-Craft)
Civilian job titles:
- Industrial Maintenance Mechanic
- Multi-Craft Maintenance Technician
- Plant Maintenance Technician
- Manufacturing Equipment Technician
- Maintenance Reliability Technician
Salary ranges (2024-2025 data):
- Entry-level Industrial Maintenance: $50,000-$60,000
- Experienced Multi-Craft Tech (3-5 years): $60,000-$75,000
- Senior Maintenance Technician: $70,000-$90,000
- Maintenance Supervisor: $80,000-$100,000
- Maintenance Manager: $90,000-$120,000+
What translates directly: Manufacturing plants operate hydraulic systems, pneumatic controls, conveyors, motors, pumps, electrical controls, and computerized equipment—all systems you troubleshot on the Bradley. Your hydraulic, electrical, and mechanical troubleshooting skills are exactly what plants need.
Certifications valuable:
- Certified Maintenance & Reliability Technician (CMRT): SMRP credential, $395 exam. Industry-recognized.
- Industrial Maintenance Technician Certification: MSSC or NIMS programs, $300-$600.
- OSHA 10/30: Required for manufacturing environments.
- Electrical certifications: Journeyman electrician or industrial electrician licenses strengthen value.
Industries and companies hiring:
- Automotive manufacturing: GM, Ford, Stellantis, Toyota, Honda assembly plants
- Food and beverage: Coca-Cola, PepsiCo, Anheuser-Busch, General Mills, Tyson Foods
- Chemical and pharmaceutical: Pfizer, Merck, Dow Chemical, DuPont, BASF
- Packaging and distribution: Amazon, UPS, FedEx fulfillment/distribution centers
- Paper and pulp mills: International Paper, Georgia-Pacific, Weyerhaeuser
- Steel and metals: US Steel, Nucor, ArcelorMittal
- Aerospace manufacturing: Boeing, Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman
Reality check: Industrial maintenance requires shift work (days, nights, weekends, rotating schedules) and can be physically demanding. But pay is solid, overtime is common (time-and-a-half, double-time), and union manufacturing positions pay $70K-$95K+ with excellent benefits. Advancement to supervisor and management roles is realistic.
Best for: 91Ms who want to leverage hydraulic and electrical skills, don't mind shift work, prefer indoor work (mostly), and want opportunities for overtime income and career growth.
Field Service Technician (Equipment, Machinery, Power Generation)
Civilian job titles:
- Field Service Technician
- Mobile Equipment Technician
- On-Site Service Technician
- Equipment Field Engineer
- Customer Support Technician
Salary ranges (2024-2025 data):
- Entry-level Field Service Tech: $55,000-$68,000 + per diem
- Experienced Field Tech (3-5 years): $70,000-$90,000 + expenses
- Senior Field Service Specialist: $85,000-$110,000 + per diem/truck
- Field Service Manager: $95,000-$125,000+
What translates directly: Field service techs travel to customer sites to diagnose and repair equipment—similar to your role supporting units in the field. You'll troubleshoot independently, perform complex repairs on-site, and work with customers—exactly like supporting Bradley crews and commanders.
Certifications valuable:
- ASE certifications: Demonstrates technical competency
- Manufacturer-specific training: Employer-provided for their equipment lines
- CDL (Class A or B): Often required to drive service trucks
- OSHA 30: Safety training for customer sites
Industries and companies:
- Heavy equipment dealers: Caterpillar, John Deere, Komatsu field service teams
- Power generation: Caterpillar Electric Power, Cummins Power, Kohler, Generac (generator installation/service)
- Mining equipment: Joy Global, Sandvik, Atlas Copco, Epiroc
- Crane and lifting: Manitowoc, Terex, Grove, Liebherr
- Industrial equipment: Ingersoll Rand, Sullair (compressors), Gardner Denver
- Material handling: Toyota Forklifts, Crown, Hyster-Yale (forklift service)
Reality check: Field service requires 50-80% travel (often overnight), emergency calls, and working in all weather/conditions. But compensation is excellent—base salary plus per diem ($50-$100/day), company trucks (often take-home), tool allowances, bonuses. Many field techs earn $85K-$110K+ within 3-5 years. It's demanding but highly rewarding.
Best for: 91Ms who don't mind travel, enjoy independent troubleshooting, want higher earnings, and prefer working directly with customers rather than in a shop.
Armored Vehicle and Specialty Vehicle Technician
Civilian job titles:
- Armored Vehicle Technician
- Security Vehicle Mechanic
- Specialty Vehicle Technician
- Tactical Vehicle Specialist
- Armored Car Mechanic
Salary ranges (2024-2025 data):
- Armored Vehicle Technician: $55,000-$75,000
- Senior Armored Vehicle Specialist: $70,000-$95,000
- Specialty Vehicle Service Manager: $80,000-$105,000+
What translates directly: Armored car companies (Brinks, Loomis, GardaWorld), law enforcement agencies (SWAT vehicles, BearCats), and security companies operate armored and tactical vehicles requiring specialized maintenance. Your Bradley experience with armored systems, hydraulics, communications, and electrical systems is directly applicable.
Companies and agencies:
- Armored car services: Brinks, Loomis, GardaWorld (armored truck fleets)
- Law enforcement: Police departments, sheriff's offices, federal agencies (SWAT/tactical vehicle maintenance)
- Specialty vehicle manufacturers: Lenco (BearCat), Navistar (armored vehicles), Alpine Armoring
- Security contractors: Constellis, Triple Canopy, GardaWorld (security vehicle fleets)
- Government agencies: USAJOBS.gov federal civilian positions supporting tactical vehicle fleets
Reality check: This is a niche market with fewer positions than general diesel/heavy equipment roles. But pay is competitive, work is specialized, and employers value military armored vehicle experience. Opportunities exist primarily in major metro areas and near federal/law enforcement facilities.
Best for: 91Ms who want specialized work using armored vehicle experience and prefer working with law enforcement or security industries.
Required Certifications & Training
High Priority (Get These First)
ASE Heavy-Duty Truck Certifications (T series) – T2 (Diesel Engines), T3 (Drivetrain), T4 (Brakes), T5 (Suspension/Steering), T6 (Electrical Systems), T7 (HVAC), T8 (Preventive Maintenance). Cost: $112 per advanced test. Time: Study 2-3 months per test. Value: Earning 4-8 ASE certs qualifies as Master Diesel/Truck Technician—increases salary $10K-$15K. ROI: Opens doors to $65K-$95K+ positions.
OSHA 10 or OSHA 30-Hour Safety – Construction and industrial safety training. Cost: $50-$200. Time: 10 or 30 hours. Value: Required by many employers. ROI: Improves hiring competitiveness.
Maintain Security Clearance (if you have it) – Keep clearance active by working in a cleared position within 2 years of separation or it lapses. Cost: Free if maintained. Value: Worth $10K-$20K+ annually for defense contractor roles. ROI: Opens $75K-$120K defense contractor positions.
Medium Priority (Valuable for Advancement)
Manufacturer Certifications – Caterpillar, Cummins, John Deere, Allison Transmission, Detroit Diesel training programs. Cost: Often employer-provided ($1,000-$5,000 if self-funded). Time: 1-2 weeks per program. Value: Required for dealership advancement; increases technical expertise. ROI: Master technicians at dealers earn $80K-$105K+.
CDL (Class A or B) – Allows driving heavy equipment trailers, service trucks, commercial vehicles. Cost: $3,000-$5,000 for training/testing. Time: 3-8 weeks. Value: Required for field service roles; adds $5K-$10K+ earning potential. ROI: Opens field service careers paying $75K-$110K+.
Hydraulic Certifications – Advanced hydraulic troubleshooting from Parker Hannifin, Bosch Rexroth, AED, technical schools. Cost: $500-$2,000. Time: 3-5 days. Value: Hydraulic specialists command premium pay. ROI: Adds $5K-$10K annually.
EPA 609 Mobile A/C Certification – Required for truck/equipment HVAC work. Cost: $20-$50. Time: 1-2 hours online. Value: Legally required for HVAC service. ROI: Mandatory for many diesel tech positions.
Lower Priority (Situation-Dependent)
Associate Degree in Diesel Technology or Heavy Equipment Technology – 2-year technical degree. Cost: $0 with GI Bill. Time: 2 years. Value: Strengthens long-term career prospects, opens management faster. ROI: Degree-holders earn $5K-$10K more annually and advance faster to supervision.
Certified Maintenance & Reliability Technician (CMRT) – SMRP industrial maintenance credential. Cost: $395 exam. Value: For industrial maintenance career path. ROI: Opens $70K-$95K industrial maintenance positions.
Welding Certifications (AWS) – Stick, MIG, TIG certifications. Cost: $500-$1,500 per process. Value: Field service and heavy equipment roles value welding skills. ROI: Adds $5K-$10K annually for field positions.
Companies Actively Hiring 91M Veterans (90+ Employers)
Defense Contractors (Military Vehicle Maintenance)
- BAE Systems (Bradley, tracked vehicles)
- General Dynamics Land Systems (Abrams, Stryker)
- Oshkosh Defense (tactical vehicles, JLTV, MRAP)
- AM General (HMMWV, JLTV)
- Navistar Defense (MaxxPro MRAP, trucks)
- KBR (LOGCAP support)
- Fluor Corporation (LOGCAP)
- Vectrus (base operations support)
- Amentum (military installation support)
- AECOM (federal facilities)
Heavy Equipment Dealers and Rental
11-25. Caterpillar dealers nationwide (40+ independent dealers) 26-35. John Deere Construction dealers (50+ dealers) 36-40. Komatsu distributors (20+ distributors) 41. United Rentals (1,500+ locations) 42. Sunbelt Rentals (1,300+ locations) 43. Herc Rentals (400+ locations)
Transportation and Logistics (Fleet Maintenance)
- UPS (fleet maintenance nationwide)
- FedEx (fleet services)
- XPO Logistics
- Old Dominion Freight Line
- J.B. Hunt Transport
- Schneider National
- ABF Freight
- Estes Express Lines
- Penske Truck Leasing
- Ryder System Inc.
- Enterprise Truck Rental
Truck Dealerships (All Major Brands)
- Freightliner dealers nationwide
- Peterbilt dealers
- Kenworth dealers
- Volvo Truck dealers
- Mack Truck dealers
- International Truck dealers
Manufacturing and Industrial
- General Motors (assembly plants)
- Ford Motor Company
- Stellantis (Chrysler)
- Toyota Manufacturing
- Honda Manufacturing
- Boeing (aerospace manufacturing)
- Lockheed Martin
- Northrop Grumman
Mining and Heavy Industry
- BHP (copper, iron ore, coal)
- Rio Tinto (mining operations)
- Freeport-McMoRan (copper mining)
- Peabody Energy (coal)
- Nucor Corporation (steel)
Waste Management and Municipal
- Republic Services
- Waste Management Inc.
- Waste Connections
- State DOTs (all 50 states)
- County/city public works
Armored Vehicle and Specialty
- Brinks (armored car services)
- Loomis (armored vehicles)
- GardaWorld (security vehicles)
- Lenco (BearCat manufacturer)
- Alpine Armoring
Federal Civilian Positions
- USAJOBS.gov (search "heavy mobile equipment mechanic" WG-5803, "motor vehicle mechanic" WG-5823)
Power Generation
- Caterpillar Electric Power
- Cummins Power Generation
- Kohler Power Systems
- Generac Industrial Power
School Districts and Transit
89-90. School district bus maintenance departments (nationwide) 91-95. Metropolitan transit authorities (bus/rail maintenance)
Use company career pages, veteran job boards, and USAJOBS.gov. Many companies have veteran hiring programs.
Salary Expectations by Experience Level
Entry-Level (0-2 years civilian):
- Diesel/Heavy Equipment Technician: $50,000-$60,000
- Defense Contractor Vehicle Tech: $60,000-$75,000
- Truck Technician: $48,000-$58,000
- Industrial Maintenance Tech: $50,000-$60,000
Mid-Career (3-7 years, ASE certified):
- Diesel Technician (ASE Master): $65,000-$85,000
- Defense Contractor (experienced): $80,000-$100,000
- Senior Truck Technician: $70,000-$90,000
- Industrial Multi-Craft Tech: $65,000-$85,000
- Field Service Technician: $75,000-$95,000
Senior/Supervisor (8-15 years):
- Shop Foreman/Lead Technician: $75,000-$95,000
- Defense Contractor Senior Tech: $95,000-$120,000+
- Fleet Maintenance Supervisor: $80,000-$105,000
- Senior Field Service Tech: $90,000-$115,000
Management (15+ years):
- Service Manager: $90,000-$120,000+
- Fleet Maintenance Manager: $95,000-$130,000+
- Maintenance Manager (manufacturing): $100,000-$140,000+
Resume Translation for 91M Veterans
Military Skill → Civilian Translation:
"Maintained Bradley Fighting Vehicles" → "Diagnosed and repaired complex tracked combat vehicles including turbocharged diesel engines, automatic transmissions, hydraulic suspension and turret systems, electrical/electronic controls, and weapons systems; ensured 95%+ operational readiness"
"Troubleshot diesel engine failures" → "Diagnosed Cummins VTA-903T turbocharged diesel engine failures including fuel system malfunctions, turbocharger problems, cooling system issues, and air intake faults using diagnostic equipment and technical manuals"
"Repaired hydraulic systems" → "Troubleshot hydraulic suspension, turret drive, and auxiliary systems; repaired pumps, control valves, cylinders, and hoses; restored systems to operational parameters"
"Diagnosed electrical faults" → "Traced electrical circuits, tested sensors and controllers, repaired wiring harnesses, and diagnosed CAN bus communication failures using multimeters and diagnostic software"
"Replaced track and suspension components" → "Removed and installed track assemblies, road wheels, support rollers, idlers, and suspension units on tracked vehicles; performed final drive and differential service"
"Performed transmission/drivetrain repairs" → "Removed and installed automatic transmissions, transfer cases, final drives, and steering differentials; diagnosed drivetrain failures and performed component-level repairs"
"Used diagnostic software and BITE" → "Utilized Built-In Test Equipment (BITE) and computerized diagnostic tools to troubleshoot integrated electronic systems, identify fault codes, and isolate malfunctions"
"Maintained weapons systems" → "Serviced 25mm cannon systems, TOW missile launchers, and turret electronics; performed functional testing and ensured weapons system integration"
"Supervised maintenance team" → "Led 5-person maintenance crew performing field and shop repairs; trained junior technicians on troubleshooting procedures and safety protocols"
"Ensured equipment readiness" → "Managed preventive maintenance schedules, documented repairs, and maintained $3M+ in tracked combat vehicles achieving 93%+ mission-capable rates"
Transition Timeline: Your First 12 Months
Months 1-3: Certifications and Immediate Applications
Week 1-2:
- Get 10 DD-214 copies
- Document security clearance level and expiration (critical for defense contractor roles)
- Create civilian resume translating Bradley skills
- Set up LinkedIn profile (diesel technician, heavy equipment mechanic)
- Join veteran employment groups
Weeks 3-12:
- Register for ASE tests (start with T2 Diesel Engines, T6 Electrical)
- Complete OSHA 10 or 30 training ($50-$200)
- Study for ASE exams (6-8 weeks per test)
- Research defense contractors, heavy equipment dealers, fleet companies in your area
- Apply to 20-30 entry-level positions
Months 4-6: Job Search and Employment
- Pass 1-2 ASE tests
- Apply to defense contractors if you have clearance
- Target heavy equipment dealers, rental companies, trucking fleets
- Conduct interviews emphasizing Bradley systems experience
- Accept first solid offer ($50K-$65K entry-level)
Months 7-12: Career Development
- Prove yourself on the job
- Complete additional ASE certifications
- Pursue manufacturer training (employer-provided)
- Document new skills and certifications
- Target $65K-$80K by year 2-3
Success Stories
Mike, 27, former 91M (E-5) → BAE Systems Field Service Rep → $95K Served 6 years, maintained Bradley throughout deployment. Applied to BAE Systems emphasizing Bradley experience. Hired at $68K supporting Army training base. After 3 years, promoted to senior field service rep at $95K. Uses GI Bill for engineering degree part-time.
Jason, 30, former 91M (E-6) → Caterpillar Dealer Technician → $82K Did 8 years. Hired by Cat dealer at $54K. Earned ASE certs and dealer certifications. Now senior field service tech earning $82K + truck + benefits. Works independently, enjoys troubleshooting.
Carlos, 29, former 91M (E-4) → UPS Fleet Technician → $76K Served 5 years. Hired by UPS at $52K. Earned ASE Master Diesel Technician. Now makes $76K with overtime, excellent benefits, Teamsters union. Works steady schedule, home every night.
Next Steps: Action Plan
This Week:
- Get DD-214 copies
- Create LinkedIn (diesel technician, heavy equipment mechanic)
- Build resume (use translations)
- Identify 10 local employers (dealers, fleets, contractors)
- Register for ASE tests
Next 30 Days:
- Complete OSHA training
- Apply to 20+ positions
- Study for first ASE test
- Research CDL if targeting field service
- Network with 91M veterans on LinkedIn
Months 2-3:
- Pass 1-2 ASE tests
- Interview with 5+ companies
- Accept offer ($50K-$65K)
- Start work and learn civilian systems
You maintained $3M+ Bradley Fighting Vehicles under combat conditions. You troubleshot complex integrated systems. You kept combat vehicles operational.
Civilian employers need your skills desperately. Execute the plan.
Ready to start? Use the career planning tools at Military Transition Toolkit to map your skills and track certifications.