Navy HT (Hull Maintenance Technician) to Civilian: Complete Career Transition Guide (With 2024-2025 Salary Data)

Bottom Line Up Front

Navy HTs are skilled metalworkers, welders, pipefitters, and damage control specialists who keep ships operational in the most demanding environments. Your training in welding, brazing, pipefitting, plumbing, HVAC systems, and structural repair translates directly to high-demand civilian trades. Realistic first-year salaries range from $45,000-$60,000 for entry-level positions, with experienced journeyman tradesmen earning $75,000-$95,000, and union pipefitters or specialized welders clearing $100,000-$140,000+ with overtime. You'll need certifications and possibly apprenticeship completion, but your Navy experience gives you a significant head start.

Let's address the elephant in the room

When you start researching civilian careers as an HT, you'll see generic advice about "skilled trades" without understanding what you actually bring to the table.

Here's what civilians miss: you're not just a welder or a plumber. You're a multi-skilled craftsman who:

Performed TIG, MIG, stick, and gas welding on multiple metals (steel, stainless, aluminum, copper, brass)
Maintained complex piping systems under pressure in a marine environment
Conducted damage control operations—literally keeping a ship from sinking
Inspected welds using radiographic, ultrasonic, and magnetic particle testing
Read and interpreted complex blueprints and technical specifications
Managed Quality Assurance programs and maintained meticulous documentation
Worked in confined spaces, at heights, and in all weather conditions
Maintained accountability for tools, equipment, and repair parts worth hundreds of thousands of dollars

That's not entry-level anything. That's journeyman-level technical skill, safety discipline, and problem-solving ability. You just need to translate it into civilian credentials and target the right industries.

Best civilian career paths for Navy HT

Let's get specific. These are the fields where HTs consistently land, with real 2024-2025 salary data.

Pipefitter / Welder (highest earning potential)

Civilian job titles:

Union pipefitter
Pipefitter welder (industrial, commercial, power plants)
Pipeline welder (oil & gas)
Pressure vessel welder
Steamfitter

Salary ranges:

Entry-level apprentice (year 1-2): $45,000-$55,000
Journeyman pipefitter: $60,000-$80,000
Experienced pipefitter welder: $75,000-$95,000
Union pipefitter with overtime: $90,000-$120,000
Pipeline welder (oil & gas, traveling): $100,000-$140,000+

What translates directly:

Multi-process welding (TIG, MIG, stick, oxy-acetylene)
Pipe threading, cutting, and fitting
Blueprint reading and technical specifications
Pressure testing and leak detection
Working in confined spaces and extreme conditions
Quality control and weld inspection procedures

Certifications needed:

AWS (American Welding Society) certifications - Multiple certifications for different processes (6G pipe, TIG, MIG, stick). Cost: $500-$2,000 per cert. Your Navy welding experience puts you way ahead.
ASME (pressure vessel) certifications - For power plant or industrial work. Cost: $1,000-$3,000.
Pipefitter apprenticeship completion (4-5 years) - Many HTs can test out of early years based on military experience. Covered by GI Bill through programs like USMAP.
OSHA 10 or 30-hour safety certification - Required by most contractors. Cost: $50-$300.

Reality check: Pipefitting pays exceptionally well but requires completing an apprenticeship program. The good news: your Navy HT experience can count toward apprenticeship hours through USMAP (United Services Military Apprenticeship Program), potentially cutting 1-2 years off the timeline.

Union jobs (UA - United Association of Plumbers and Pipefitters) offer the best pay, benefits, and job security. Non-union industrial work pays less but may have faster hiring.

Traveling pipeline welders make the most money ($280/hour top rates reported in 2024), but you're living in hotels, working 12+ hour days, 6-7 days a week. It's a grind, but the pay is real.

Best for: HTs who want to maximize earning potential and don't mind physical work, travel, and completing apprenticeship requirements.

Welder / Metal Fabricator

Civilian job titles:

Certified welder (structural, industrial, manufacturing)
Metal fabricator
Shipyard welder
Maintenance welder
Welding inspector

Salary ranges:

Entry-level welder: $40,000-$50,000
Experienced welder (5+ years): $55,000-$75,000
Specialized welder (TIG, aerospace, nuclear): $70,000-$90,000
Welding inspector / QA: $75,000-$95,000
Shipyard welder (federal or commercial): $60,000-$85,000

What translates directly:

Multi-process welding on various metals
Metal fabrication and layout
Blueprint reading and technical drawings
Weld quality inspection and documentation
Shop math and measurements
Safety protocols and PPE discipline

Certifications needed:

AWS Certified Welder credentials (specific to processes: SMAW, GMAW, GTAW, FCAW). Cost: $500-$1,500 per test. You'll pass these easily with Navy experience.
CWI (Certified Welding Inspector) - Advanced cert for QA roles. Requires 5 years experience. Cost: $1,800-$2,500. Salary boost: $15K-$25K.
State-specific licenses (some states require registration for certain work)

Reality check: Welding pays decent but has a ceiling unless you specialize or move into inspection/QA roles. Manufacturing welders (repetitive production work) pay less. Specialized welding (aerospace, nuclear, underwater) pays significantly more but requires additional certs and clearances.

Your Navy experience with aluminum, stainless steel, and exotic metals is valuable—target industries that need those skills (shipyards, aerospace, food processing equipment).

Shipyard welding (federal or private) values your Navy background heavily. Many civilian shipyards actively recruit separating Navy HTs. Check NAVSEA shipyards, Bath Iron Works, Huntington Ingalls, General Dynamics.

Best for: HTs who want stable employment in manufacturing or industrial settings without extensive travel or apprenticeship requirements.

HVAC Technician

Civilian job titles:

HVAC technician
HVAC installer
Commercial HVAC mechanic
Refrigeration technician
HVAC service technician

Salary ranges:

Entry-level HVAC tech: $40,000-$50,000
Licensed HVAC technician (3-5 years): $55,000-$70,000
Experienced commercial HVAC tech: $65,000-$85,000
HVAC supervisor / lead technician: $75,000-$95,000
Specialized systems (chillers, industrial): $80,000-$100,000+

What translates directly:

Marine HVAC system maintenance and repair
Refrigerant handling and recovery
Troubleshooting mechanical and electrical systems
Reading technical manuals and schematics
Preventive maintenance scheduling
Working in confined spaces and extreme temperatures

Certifications needed:

EPA Section 608 certification (refrigerant handling) - Required by law. Universal certification covers all system types. Cost: $150-$300. Test: 2-3 hours. You'll pass this easily.
HVAC technical training (6-24 months) - Trade school or community college. Covered by GI Bill. Many programs give credit for military experience.
NATE (North American Technician Excellence) certification - Industry-recognized credential. Cost: $100-$200 per specialty. Increases pay $5K-$10K.
State contractor license (for running your own business or lead positions) - Requirements vary by state. Usually requires 2-5 years experience plus exam.
R-410A certification (for modern refrigerants)

Reality check: HVAC is a solid career with 8% projected job growth through 2034 (BLS). Demand is consistent—people always need heating and cooling.

Pay varies significantly by location and specialization. Commercial HVAC pays better than residential. Service techs (fixing problems) earn more than installers. Union positions offer better benefits.

Your Navy HVAC experience counts, but you'll need civilian certifications to be hireable. EPA 608 is mandatory and non-negotiable.

Some HTs transition into industrial refrigeration (food processing, cold storage), which pays very well ($75K-$100K+) but requires additional specialized training.

Best for: HTs who want steady work, regular hours (mostly), and don't want the physical intensity of heavy pipefitting or the travel of pipeline welding.

Plumber (commercial and industrial)

Civilian job titles:

Commercial plumber
Industrial plumber
Plumbing contractor
Pipefitter plumber
Service plumber

Salary ranges:

Apprentice plumber (years 1-2): $35,000-$45,000
Journeyman plumber: $55,000-$72,000
Master plumber: $70,000-$90,000
Plumbing contractor (self-employed): $80,000-$120,000+
Union plumber with overtime: $75,000-$100,000

What translates directly:

Shipboard plumbing and sanitation system maintenance
Pipe cutting, threading, fitting, and installation
Valve repair and replacement
Leak detection and pressure testing
Blueprint reading for piping systems
Water supply and waste system knowledge

Certifications needed:

Plumbing apprenticeship (4-5 years typically) - Can be shortened with military experience through USMAP
Journeyman plumber license (state-specific) - Requires apprenticeship completion plus exam. Cost: $200-$500.
Master plumber license (after 2-5 years as journeyman) - Required to run your own business in most states. Cost: $300-$1,000.
Backflow prevention certification - Additional specialty cert. Cost: $150-$400.

Reality check: Plumbing is recession-resistant and offers entrepreneurship opportunities. People always need plumbers, and good ones can charge premium rates.

Commercial/industrial plumbing pays better than residential. Marine plumbing experience is particularly valuable in coastal areas (shipyards, marinas, offshore platforms).

Union plumbers (UA Local unions) get the best pay and benefits, but non-union plumbers can make very good money running their own businesses.

The path requires apprenticeship completion, but many HTs skip 1-2 years using military experience credits.

Best for: HTs who want a stable, in-demand trade with entrepreneurship potential and don't mind the occasional emergency call.

Maritime trades and shipyard work

Civilian job titles:

Shipfitter (civilian shipyards)
Marine mechanic
Boatyard technician
Shipyard production worker
Marine surveyor (with experience)

Salary ranges:

Entry-level shipyard worker: $45,000-$55,000
Experienced shipfitter: $60,000-$75,000
Lead shipfitter / supervisor: $75,000-$95,000
Federal shipyard (GS-10 to GS-12): $65,000-$95,000
Private shipyard specialist: $70,000-$90,000

What translates directly: Everything. You're doing the same job in a civilian environment.

Certifications needed:

AWS welding certifications (often required for shipyard work)
OSHA Maritime Safety certification
Shipyard Competent Person training (for confined space, rigging, scaffolding)
Security clearance (for federal shipyards - you may already have this)

Reality check: Federal shipyards (Portsmouth, Norfolk, Pearl Harbor, Puget Sound, etc.) actively recruit separating Navy HTs. You get veteran preference hiring points, and your military experience counts directly toward GS pay scale placement.

Private shipyards (Bath Iron Works, Huntington Ingalls, General Dynamics, Vigor Industrial) also recruit Navy HTs heavily. They understand your skillset better than any other civilian employer.

The work is familiar, the environment is familiar, and the transition is easier than most careers. However, pay may be lower than specialized welding or pipefitting positions.

Coastal location required—these jobs cluster around major ports and naval installations.

Best for: HTs who want the smoothest transition, familiar work environment, and job stability over maximum earnings.

Boiler technician / Power plant operator

Civilian job titles:

Boiler operator
Stationary engineer
Power plant technician
Facilities engineer
Industrial maintenance mechanic

Salary ranges:

Entry-level boiler operator: $45,000-$55,000
Licensed stationary engineer: $60,000-$75,000
Power plant technician: $70,000-$90,000
Chief engineer / facilities manager: $85,000-$110,000

What translates directly:

Steam systems operation and maintenance
Boiler operation and safety procedures
Pressure vessel maintenance
Mechanical system troubleshooting
Preventive maintenance programs
Safety protocols and emergency response

Certifications needed:

Stationary Engineer license (state-specific, usually multiple classes) - Requires experience plus exam. Cost: $200-$600.
Boiler Operator license - Requirements vary by state. Your Navy experience counts toward experience requirements.
ASME certifications (for pressure vessel work)
EPA certifications (refrigerant handling for facility HVAC)

Reality check: Stationary engineers and boiler operators work in hospitals, universities, large commercial buildings, industrial facilities, and power plants. It's steady work with regular hours (though shift work is common).

Your Navy damage control and steam systems experience is highly valued. Many facilities prefer hiring veterans for these roles due to safety discipline and technical competency.

Pay is solid and job security is excellent—critical infrastructure always needs qualified operators.

Best for: HTs who want regular hours, steady work, and less physical intensity than construction trades.

Skills translation table (for your resume)

Stop writing "Hull Maintenance Technician" on your resume without context. Civilians don't understand what that means. Here's how to translate:

Navy HT Skill	Civilian Translation
Welding (TIG, MIG, stick, oxy-acetylene)	Multi-process certified welder proficient in GTAW, GMAW, SMAW, and oxy-fuel welding
Pipe fitting and installation	Installed, maintained, and repaired piping systems including threading, cutting, and pressure testing
Damage control operations	Emergency response team member; executed critical repairs under high-stress conditions
Blueprint reading / technical drawings	Interpreted complex technical specifications, schematics, and engineering drawings
NDT testing (ultrasonic, radiographic, magnetic particle)	Conducted non-destructive testing to ensure weld and structural integrity
Quality Assurance program management	Maintained QA documentation and compliance with technical standards and procedures
Marine HVAC systems	Maintained heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems in demanding environments
Confined space work	Certified confined space operations with adherence to strict safety protocols
Plumbing and sanitation systems	Maintained complex water supply and waste management systems
Tool and equipment accountability	Managed inventory of tools and equipment valued at $100K+

Use active verbs: Performed, Maintained, Executed, Inspected, Fabricated, Installed, Repaired, Operated.

Use numbers: "Conducted 200+ welds with 99% pass rate," "Maintained 15+ HVAC systems," "Managed $150K equipment inventory."

Drop Navy-specific acronyms. Translate them: "Conducted NDT inspections" not "Performed CMAV inspections." "Quality Assurance compliance" not "3-M system maintenance."

Certifications that actually matter

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

High priority (get these ASAP):

AWS Certified Welder credentials - The gold standard for welding jobs. Get certified in the processes you're strongest in (likely TIG for pipe and structural stick welding). Cost: $500-$1,500 per test. Value: Required by most industrial welding employers.

EPA Section 608 Universal certification - Legally required to work with refrigerants in HVAC. Cost: $150-$300. Time: Can be done in a day. Value: Mandatory for HVAC careers, no exceptions.

OSHA 30-hour Construction certification - Construction industry standard for safety training. Cost: $150-$300. Time: Can be done online in a week. Value: Often required for jobsite access.

Pipefitter or Plumber apprenticeship enrollment - If pursuing these paths, enroll immediately. Use USMAP to get credit for Navy experience. Cost: $0 (you get paid while training). Value: Required for journeyman license and top-paying jobs.

Medium priority (career-specific):

NATE certifications (HVAC) - If going HVAC route. Get Core certification plus specialty areas. Cost: $100-$200 per exam. Value: Increases pay $5K-$10K and demonstrates competency.

CWI (Certified Welding Inspector) - Advanced credential for experienced welders. Requires 5 years experience. Cost: $1,800-$2,500. Value: Career change to inspection/QA roles paying $75K-$95K.

Stationary Engineer license - If targeting facilities engineering or power plant work. Requirements vary by state. Cost: $200-$600. Value: Required for many positions; opens stable career path.

State plumbing license (Journeyman/Master) - If going plumbing route. Requires apprenticeship completion. Cost: $200-$1,000 depending on level. Value: Required to work independently or run a business.

Backflow prevention certification - Specialty plumbing cert. Cost: $150-$400. Value: Additional credential that increases employability and allows specialty work.

Lower priority (nice to have):

Forklift certification - Useful for shop and warehouse work. Cost: $50-$200. Time: 1 day. Value: Minor addition but may be required by some employers.

Rigging and crane signal person - Relevant for shipyard and construction work. Cost: $200-$500. Value: Useful but often provided by employer.

Blueprint reading courses - You already know this from Navy, but formal civilian course can go on resume. Cost: $200-$500 (often free at community colleges). Value: Resume boost for job applications.

The skills gap (what you need to learn)

Let's be honest about where you'll need to adapt:

Civilian welding certifications: Your Navy welding is top-notch, but you need civilian credentials to prove it. AWS certifications are the standard. The good news: you'll pass easily. Schedule your tests as soon as you separate.

Business basics (if self-employed): Navy doesn't teach you how to run a plumbing or HVAC business. If you want to be self-employed, you'll need to learn estimating, bidding, invoicing, licensing, insurance, and marketing. Consider taking a small business course or working for someone else first.

Residential vs. industrial standards: Navy trained you on shipboard standards (often stricter than civilian). Residential and commercial codes differ. You'll need to learn local building codes and industry standards for your chosen path.

Customer service: Navy HT work is technical and direct. Civilian trade jobs (especially residential service) require customer interaction, explaining technical issues to non-technical people, and dealing with homeowners or facility managers diplomatically.

Licensing bureaucracy: Every state has different requirements for plumbing, HVAC, and electrical licenses. Research your state's specific requirements early. The process is slow—background checks, experience verification, exam scheduling can take months.

Real Navy HT success stories

Mike, 28, former HT2 → Union pipefitter in Texas

After 6 years as an HT, Mike separated and used USMAP documentation to enter a UA pipefitter apprenticeship program as a 2nd-year apprentice (skipping 8,000 hours of the typical 5-year program). He's now a journeyman pipefitter working refinery turnarounds, making $95,000 annually with overtime. "The Navy welding experience put me miles ahead. I was running pipe while other apprentices were still learning basics."

Sarah, 31, former HT1 → HVAC business owner in Florida

Sarah did 8 years as an HT, got out, and immediately got her EPA 608 and NATE certifications. She worked for a commercial HVAC company for 2 years ($65K), then got her contractor license and started her own HVAC service business. Now clears $120K+ as owner-operator. "Navy taught me the technical skills and work discipline. The civilian certs were just paperwork to make it official."

James, 34, former HTC → Welding inspector at federal shipyard

James separated after 10 years, got his AWS CWI certification using GI Bill, and was hired at Norfolk Naval Shipyard as a welding inspector (GS-11, $78K). He now makes $92K with locality pay and full federal benefits. "Best transition path I could've asked for. Same environment, less stress, better work-life balance, and solid retirement plan."

Carlos, 29, former HT2 → Pipeline welder

Carlos wanted maximum money fast. He separated, got AWS pipe welding certs ($1,200 investment), and immediately started traveling pipeline work. First year he made $87K. Second year, $115K. Third year, $128K. "It's brutal—12-hour days, 6 days a week, living in hotels—but the money is unreal. I'm saving aggressively and will transition to something more stable in a few years."

Action plan: your first 90 days out

Here's what to actually do when you separate:

Month 1: Assessment and credentialing

Document your Navy training - Get USMAP certificate of completion before you separate. This is free and gives you documented proof of apprenticeship hours.
Get your DD-214 - Keep 10 copies. You'll need it for everything.
Research certifications for your target career - AWS for welding, EPA 608 for HVAC, OSHA 30 for construction.
Update your resume - Use the skills translation table above. Get resume review from TAPS or Military Transition Toolkit.
Apply for VA benefits - Get your disability rating done early.

Month 2: Certifications and job search

Get EPA 608 Universal certification (if going HVAC route) - Schedule exam, study for 2-3 weeks, knock it out. This is your entry ticket.
Schedule AWS welding certification tests (if going welding route) - Test in your strongest processes first. Your Navy welding will carry you through.
Enroll in apprenticeship program (if going pipefitter/plumber route) - Apply to UA local unions in your area. Mention your Navy experience and USMAP documentation.
Apply to 15-20 jobs per week - Target shipyards, construction companies, HVAC companies, industrial facilities, federal contractors.
Network with other HTs who transitioned - LinkedIn, Navy HT Facebook groups, local VFW/American Legion. Ask what worked for them.

Month 3: Interviews and advanced planning

Tailor applications to each company - Highlight the specific Navy experience that matches their needs (welding for weld shops, pipefitting for mechanical contractors, HVAC for HVAC companies).
Nail the interview - Talk about technical skills, problem-solving, safety discipline, and reliability. Bring copies of your certifications and USMAP documentation.
Consider temporary/contract work - Staffing agencies place welders and maintenance techs. It's a foot in the door.
Plan your GI Bill usage - If pursuing multi-year apprenticeship or advanced certifications, maximize your education benefits.
Research licensing requirements - If planning to get contractor license eventually, start tracking experience hours now.

Bottom line for Navy HTs

Your HT rating isn't just "shipboard maintenance." You're a skilled metalworker, welder, pipefitter, and HVAC technician with documented experience in high-consequence technical work.

The civilian trades desperately need people with your skills. Welders, pipefitters, HVAC techs, and plumbers are in high demand across the country, with 8-15% job growth projected through 2034.

You've already done the hard part—learning the technical skills. Now you just need to get the civilian credentials that prove it and target the right employers.

First-year income of $45K-$60K is realistic for entry positions. With certifications and experience, $75K-$95K within 3-5 years is very achievable. Union pipefitters, specialized welders, and HVAC business owners regularly clear $100K-$140K+.

Don't undersell yourself. You're not entry-level. You're a trained technician with skills that take civilians years to develop. Leverage that.

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

When you start researching civilian careers as an HT, you'll see generic advice about "skilled trades" without understanding what you actually bring to the table.

Here's what civilians miss: you're not just a welder or a plumber. You're a multi-skilled craftsman who:

Performed TIG, MIG, stick, and gas welding on multiple metals (steel, stainless, aluminum, copper, brass)
Maintained complex piping systems under pressure in a marine environment
Conducted damage control operations—literally keeping a ship from sinking
Inspected welds using radiographic, ultrasonic, and magnetic particle testing
Read and interpreted complex blueprints and technical specifications
Managed Quality Assurance programs and maintained meticulous documentation
Worked in confined spaces, at heights, and in all weather conditions
Maintained accountability for tools, equipment, and repair parts worth hundreds of thousands of dollars

Best civilian career paths for Navy HT

Let's get specific. These are the fields where HTs consistently land, with real 2024-2025 salary data.

Pipefitter / Welder (highest earning potential)

Civilian job titles:

Union pipefitter
Pipefitter welder (industrial, commercial, power plants)
Pipeline welder (oil & gas)
Pressure vessel welder
Steamfitter

Salary ranges:

Entry-level apprentice (year 1-2): $45,000-$55,000
Journeyman pipefitter: $60,000-$80,000
Experienced pipefitter welder: $75,000-$95,000
Union pipefitter with overtime: $90,000-$120,000
Pipeline welder (oil & gas, traveling): $100,000-$140,000+

What translates directly:

Multi-process welding (TIG, MIG, stick, oxy-acetylene)
Pipe threading, cutting, and fitting
Blueprint reading and technical specifications
Pressure testing and leak detection
Working in confined spaces and extreme conditions
Quality control and weld inspection procedures

Certifications needed:

AWS (American Welding Society) certifications - Multiple certifications for different processes (6G pipe, TIG, MIG, stick). Cost: $500-$2,000 per cert. Your Navy welding experience puts you way ahead.
ASME (pressure vessel) certifications - For power plant or industrial work. Cost: $1,000-$3,000.
Pipefitter apprenticeship completion (4-5 years) - Many HTs can test out of early years based on military experience. Covered by GI Bill through programs like USMAP.
OSHA 10 or 30-hour safety certification - Required by most contractors. Cost: $50-$300.

Union jobs (UA - United Association of Plumbers and Pipefitters) offer the best pay, benefits, and job security. Non-union industrial work pays less but may have faster hiring.

Traveling pipeline welders make the most money ($280/hour top rates reported in 2024), but you're living in hotels, working 12+ hour days, 6-7 days a week. It's a grind, but the pay is real.

Best for: HTs who want to maximize earning potential and don't mind physical work, travel, and completing apprenticeship requirements.

Welder / Metal Fabricator

Civilian job titles:

Certified welder (structural, industrial, manufacturing)
Metal fabricator
Shipyard welder
Maintenance welder
Welding inspector

Salary ranges:

Entry-level welder: $40,000-$50,000
Experienced welder (5+ years): $55,000-$75,000
Specialized welder (TIG, aerospace, nuclear): $70,000-$90,000
Welding inspector / QA: $75,000-$95,000
Shipyard welder (federal or commercial): $60,000-$85,000

What translates directly:

Multi-process welding on various metals
Metal fabrication and layout
Blueprint reading and technical drawings
Weld quality inspection and documentation
Shop math and measurements
Safety protocols and PPE discipline

Certifications needed:

AWS Certified Welder credentials (specific to processes: SMAW, GMAW, GTAW, FCAW). Cost: $500-$1,500 per test. You'll pass these easily with Navy experience.
CWI (Certified Welding Inspector) - Advanced cert for QA roles. Requires 5 years experience. Cost: $1,800-$2,500. Salary boost: $15K-$25K.
State-specific licenses (some states require registration for certain work)

Your Navy experience with aluminum, stainless steel, and exotic metals is valuable—target industries that need those skills (shipyards, aerospace, food processing equipment).

Best for: HTs who want stable employment in manufacturing or industrial settings without extensive travel or apprenticeship requirements.

HVAC Technician

Civilian job titles:

HVAC technician
HVAC installer
Commercial HVAC mechanic
Refrigeration technician
HVAC service technician

Salary ranges:

Entry-level HVAC tech: $40,000-$50,000
Licensed HVAC technician (3-5 years): $55,000-$70,000
Experienced commercial HVAC tech: $65,000-$85,000
HVAC supervisor / lead technician: $75,000-$95,000
Specialized systems (chillers, industrial): $80,000-$100,000+

What translates directly:

Marine HVAC system maintenance and repair
Refrigerant handling and recovery
Troubleshooting mechanical and electrical systems
Reading technical manuals and schematics
Preventive maintenance scheduling
Working in confined spaces and extreme temperatures

Certifications needed:

EPA Section 608 certification (refrigerant handling) - Required by law. Universal certification covers all system types. Cost: $150-$300. Test: 2-3 hours. You'll pass this easily.
HVAC technical training (6-24 months) - Trade school or community college. Covered by GI Bill. Many programs give credit for military experience.
NATE (North American Technician Excellence) certification - Industry-recognized credential. Cost: $100-$200 per specialty. Increases pay $5K-$10K.
State contractor license (for running your own business or lead positions) - Requirements vary by state. Usually requires 2-5 years experience plus exam.
R-410A certification (for modern refrigerants)

Reality check: HVAC is a solid career with 8% projected job growth through 2034 (BLS). Demand is consistent—people always need heating and cooling.

Your Navy HVAC experience counts, but you'll need civilian certifications to be hireable. EPA 608 is mandatory and non-negotiable.

Some HTs transition into industrial refrigeration (food processing, cold storage), which pays very well ($75K-$100K+) but requires additional specialized training.

Best for: HTs who want steady work, regular hours (mostly), and don't want the physical intensity of heavy pipefitting or the travel of pipeline welding.

Plumber (commercial and industrial)

Civilian job titles:

Commercial plumber
Industrial plumber
Plumbing contractor
Pipefitter plumber
Service plumber

Salary ranges:

Apprentice plumber (years 1-2): $35,000-$45,000
Journeyman plumber: $55,000-$72,000
Master plumber: $70,000-$90,000
Plumbing contractor (self-employed): $80,000-$120,000+
Union plumber with overtime: $75,000-$100,000

What translates directly:

Shipboard plumbing and sanitation system maintenance
Pipe cutting, threading, fitting, and installation
Valve repair and replacement
Leak detection and pressure testing
Blueprint reading for piping systems
Water supply and waste system knowledge

Certifications needed:

Plumbing apprenticeship (4-5 years typically) - Can be shortened with military experience through USMAP
Journeyman plumber license (state-specific) - Requires apprenticeship completion plus exam. Cost: $200-$500.
Master plumber license (after 2-5 years as journeyman) - Required to run your own business in most states. Cost: $300-$1,000.
Backflow prevention certification - Additional specialty cert. Cost: $150-$400.

Reality check: Plumbing is recession-resistant and offers entrepreneurship opportunities. People always need plumbers, and good ones can charge premium rates.

Commercial/industrial plumbing pays better than residential. Marine plumbing experience is particularly valuable in coastal areas (shipyards, marinas, offshore platforms).

Union plumbers (UA Local unions) get the best pay and benefits, but non-union plumbers can make very good money running their own businesses.

The path requires apprenticeship completion, but many HTs skip 1-2 years using military experience credits.

Best for: HTs who want a stable, in-demand trade with entrepreneurship potential and don't mind the occasional emergency call.

Maritime trades and shipyard work

Civilian job titles:

Shipfitter (civilian shipyards)
Marine mechanic
Boatyard technician
Shipyard production worker
Marine surveyor (with experience)

Salary ranges:

Entry-level shipyard worker: $45,000-$55,000
Experienced shipfitter: $60,000-$75,000
Lead shipfitter / supervisor: $75,000-$95,000
Federal shipyard (GS-10 to GS-12): $65,000-$95,000
Private shipyard specialist: $70,000-$90,000

What translates directly: Everything. You're doing the same job in a civilian environment.

Certifications needed:

AWS welding certifications (often required for shipyard work)
OSHA Maritime Safety certification
Shipyard Competent Person training (for confined space, rigging, scaffolding)
Security clearance (for federal shipyards - you may already have this)

Private shipyards (Bath Iron Works, Huntington Ingalls, General Dynamics, Vigor Industrial) also recruit Navy HTs heavily. They understand your skillset better than any other civilian employer.

The work is familiar, the environment is familiar, and the transition is easier than most careers. However, pay may be lower than specialized welding or pipefitting positions.

Coastal location required—these jobs cluster around major ports and naval installations.

Best for: HTs who want the smoothest transition, familiar work environment, and job stability over maximum earnings.

Boiler technician / Power plant operator

Civilian job titles:

Boiler operator
Stationary engineer
Power plant technician
Facilities engineer
Industrial maintenance mechanic

Salary ranges:

Entry-level boiler operator: $45,000-$55,000
Licensed stationary engineer: $60,000-$75,000
Power plant technician: $70,000-$90,000
Chief engineer / facilities manager: $85,000-$110,000

What translates directly:

Steam systems operation and maintenance
Boiler operation and safety procedures
Pressure vessel maintenance
Mechanical system troubleshooting
Preventive maintenance programs
Safety protocols and emergency response

Certifications needed:

Stationary Engineer license (state-specific, usually multiple classes) - Requires experience plus exam. Cost: $200-$600.
Boiler Operator license - Requirements vary by state. Your Navy experience counts toward experience requirements.
ASME certifications (for pressure vessel work)
EPA certifications (refrigerant handling for facility HVAC)

Your Navy damage control and steam systems experience is highly valued. Many facilities prefer hiring veterans for these roles due to safety discipline and technical competency.

Pay is solid and job security is excellent—critical infrastructure always needs qualified operators.

Best for: HTs who want regular hours, steady work, and less physical intensity than construction trades.

Skills translation table (for your resume)

Stop writing "Hull Maintenance Technician" on your resume without context. Civilians don't understand what that means. Here's how to translate:

Navy HT Skill	Civilian Translation
Welding (TIG, MIG, stick, oxy-acetylene)	Multi-process certified welder proficient in GTAW, GMAW, SMAW, and oxy-fuel welding
Pipe fitting and installation	Installed, maintained, and repaired piping systems including threading, cutting, and pressure testing
Damage control operations	Emergency response team member; executed critical repairs under high-stress conditions
Blueprint reading / technical drawings	Interpreted complex technical specifications, schematics, and engineering drawings
NDT testing (ultrasonic, radiographic, magnetic particle)	Conducted non-destructive testing to ensure weld and structural integrity
Quality Assurance program management	Maintained QA documentation and compliance with technical standards and procedures
Marine HVAC systems	Maintained heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems in demanding environments
Confined space work	Certified confined space operations with adherence to strict safety protocols
Plumbing and sanitation systems	Maintained complex water supply and waste management systems
Tool and equipment accountability	Managed inventory of tools and equipment valued at $100K+

Use active verbs: Performed, Maintained, Executed, Inspected, Fabricated, Installed, Repaired, Operated.

Use numbers: "Conducted 200+ welds with 99% pass rate," "Maintained 15+ HVAC systems," "Managed $150K equipment inventory."

Drop Navy-specific acronyms. Translate them: "Conducted NDT inspections" not "Performed CMAV inspections." "Quality Assurance compliance" not "3-M system maintenance."

Certifications that actually matter

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

High priority (get these ASAP):

EPA Section 608 Universal certification - Legally required to work with refrigerants in HVAC. Cost: $150-$300. Time: Can be done in a day. Value: Mandatory for HVAC careers, no exceptions.

OSHA 30-hour Construction certification - Construction industry standard for safety training. Cost: $150-$300. Time: Can be done online in a week. Value: Often required for jobsite access.

Medium priority (career-specific):

NATE certifications (HVAC) - If going HVAC route. Get Core certification plus specialty areas. Cost: $100-$200 per exam. Value: Increases pay $5K-$10K and demonstrates competency.

CWI (Certified Welding Inspector) - Advanced credential for experienced welders. Requires 5 years experience. Cost: $1,800-$2,500. Value: Career change to inspection/QA roles paying $75K-$95K.

Stationary Engineer license - If targeting facilities engineering or power plant work. Requirements vary by state. Cost: $200-$600. Value: Required for many positions; opens stable career path.

Backflow prevention certification - Specialty plumbing cert. Cost: $150-$400. Value: Additional credential that increases employability and allows specialty work.

Lower priority (nice to have):

Forklift certification - Useful for shop and warehouse work. Cost: $50-$200. Time: 1 day. Value: Minor addition but may be required by some employers.

Rigging and crane signal person - Relevant for shipyard and construction work. Cost: $200-$500. Value: Useful but often provided by employer.

The skills gap (what you need to learn)

Let's be honest about where you'll need to adapt:

Real Navy HT success stories

Mike, 28, former HT2 → Union pipefitter in Texas

Sarah, 31, former HT1 → HVAC business owner in Florida

James, 34, former HTC → Welding inspector at federal shipyard

Carlos, 29, former HT2 → Pipeline welder

Action plan: your first 90 days out

Here's what to actually do when you separate:

Month 1: Assessment and credentialing

Document your Navy training - Get USMAP certificate of completion before you separate. This is free and gives you documented proof of apprenticeship hours.
Get your DD-214 - Keep 10 copies. You'll need it for everything.
Research certifications for your target career - AWS for welding, EPA 608 for HVAC, OSHA 30 for construction.
Update your resume - Use the skills translation table above. Get resume review from TAPS or Military Transition Toolkit.
Apply for VA benefits - Get your disability rating done early.

Month 2: Certifications and job search

Get EPA 608 Universal certification (if going HVAC route) - Schedule exam, study for 2-3 weeks, knock it out. This is your entry ticket.
Schedule AWS welding certification tests (if going welding route) - Test in your strongest processes first. Your Navy welding will carry you through.
Enroll in apprenticeship program (if going pipefitter/plumber route) - Apply to UA local unions in your area. Mention your Navy experience and USMAP documentation.
Apply to 15-20 jobs per week - Target shipyards, construction companies, HVAC companies, industrial facilities, federal contractors.
Network with other HTs who transitioned - LinkedIn, Navy HT Facebook groups, local VFW/American Legion. Ask what worked for them.

Month 3: Interviews and advanced planning

Tailor applications to each company - Highlight the specific Navy experience that matches their needs (welding for weld shops, pipefitting for mechanical contractors, HVAC for HVAC companies).
Nail the interview - Talk about technical skills, problem-solving, safety discipline, and reliability. Bring copies of your certifications and USMAP documentation.
Consider temporary/contract work - Staffing agencies place welders and maintenance techs. It's a foot in the door.
Plan your GI Bill usage - If pursuing multi-year apprenticeship or advanced certifications, maximize your education benefits.
Research licensing requirements - If planning to get contractor license eventually, start tracking experience hours now.

Bottom line for Navy HTs

Your HT rating isn't just "shipboard maintenance." You're a skilled metalworker, welder, pipefitter, and HVAC technician with documented experience in high-consequence technical work.

The civilian trades desperately need people with your skills. Welders, pipefitters, HVAC techs, and plumbers are in high demand across the country, with 8-15% job growth projected through 2034.

You've already done the hard part—learning the technical skills. Now you just need to get the civilian credentials that prove it and target the right employers.

Don't undersell yourself. You're not entry-level. You're a trained technician with skills that take civilians years to develop. Leverage that.

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.