Navy MN (Mineman) to Civilian: Your Complete Career Transition Roadmap (With Salary Data)

Bottom Line Up Front

Navy Minemen operate some of the most specialized systems in the Navy—mine warfare equipment, unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs), remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), and advanced sonar systems for mine detection. That translates directly to defense contracting, EOD support, underwater robotics, marine technology, and explosive handling. Realistic first-year civilian salaries range from $50,000-$70,000, with experienced professionals hitting $85,000-$120,000+ in defense contracting, underwater vehicle operations, or EOD technician roles. Your security clearance, UUV experience, and explosives knowledge are rare commodities. The MN community is small (under 1,000 in the entire Navy), making your specialized skills highly valuable to the right employers.

Let's address the elephant in the room

Every MN who starts researching civilian careers faces the same challenge: "What's a Mineman?" "That job still exists?" "How does mine warfare translate to the civilian world?"

Here's the reality: Most civilians—including HR professionals—have no idea what you actually did. Your job is to educate them.

You didn't just "look for mines." You:

Operated and maintained UUVs and ROVs for underwater detection and neutralization
Analyzed sonar data to identify, classify, and locate underwater threats
Performed explosive ordnance handling and mine countermeasures procedures
Maintained sophisticated electronics, hydraulics, and mechanical systems
Worked alongside EOD teams on mine neutralization operations
Troubleshot complex underwater robotics and sensor systems
Executed mission planning using oceanographic and environmental data
Operated from Littoral Combat Ships (LCS), MCM ships, or UUV platoons

That's underwater robotics operation, sonar analysis, explosives expertise, technical troubleshooting, data analysis, and systems integration. Those skills translate directly to defense contracting, marine research, underwater construction, robotics companies, and explosive ordnance disposal support. You just need to frame it correctly.

Best civilian career paths for Navy MNs

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

Defense contracting (highest demand)

Civilian job titles:

Underwater systems technician
UUV/ROV operator and maintainer
Mine warfare systems specialist
Sonar systems analyst
Explosive ordnance support technician
Maritime systems engineer

Salary ranges:

Entry-level systems technician: $52,000-$68,000
UUV/ROV operator: $60,000-$80,000
Mine warfare specialist: $70,000-$90,000
Senior systems engineer: $85,000-$110,000
Overseas contractor (specialized): $100,000-$150,000+

What translates directly:

UUV and ROV operation and maintenance
Mine warfare tactics and procedures
Sonar systems operation and data analysis
Explosive ordnance handling procedures
Technical troubleshooting of complex systems
Mission planning and oceanographic analysis

Certifications needed:

Maintain your security clearance (SECRET clearance worth $15K+ premium)
ROV Pilot Technician certification (IMCA or equivalent, $2,000-5,000)
Diving medical (if required for position) ($200-500)
OSHA 10/30 safety certification ($50-300)
First aid/CPR ($50-150)

Reality check: Defense contractors actively recruit former MNs. Your specialized mine warfare and UUV experience is rare. Companies like Huntington Ingalls Industries, General Dynamics Mission Systems, Northrop Grumman, Leidos, and smaller specialized firms need personnel who understand these niche systems.

Most positions are located near Naval bases (San Diego, Norfolk, Kings Bay, Coronado, Mayport) or at test ranges. Some overseas contractor work exists supporting allied navies or clearing legacy minefields.

Your clearance is essential. Many positions require SECRET or TOP SECRET clearance. If you have it, maintain it—don't let it lapse.

Best for: MNs who want to leverage their specialized technical skills immediately and maximize earning potential.

Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) support and technician roles

Civilian job titles:

EOD technician (civilian/contractor)
Unexploded ordnance (UXO) technician
Ordnance handling specialist
Explosive safety specialist
Range clearance technician

Salary ranges:

Entry-level UXO technician: $55,000-$70,000
EOD contractor (CONUS): $70,000-$95,000
Senior EOD technician: $85,000-$110,000
Overseas EOD contractor: $120,000-$180,000+

What translates directly:

Underwater explosive ordnance knowledge
Safety protocols and procedures
Sonar and detection equipment operation
Working alongside EOD teams
Risk assessment and identification
Operational planning

Certifications needed:

UXO Technician certification (Level I, II, or III through DoD programs)
HAZMAT certification ($200-500)
OSHA HAZWOPER training (40-hour, $500-1,000)
Security clearance (often required)
EMT certification (helpful, $1,000-2,000)

Reality check: UXO/EOD work involves clearing former military ranges, construction sites, and legacy conflict areas of explosive hazards. The work can be dangerous but pays well.

You won't be a full EOD technician without completing the full EOD training pipeline, but MNs work in EOD support roles—detection, identification, and technical support. Your mine warfare background is directly relevant.

Some positions involve overseas work in countries with legacy mine contamination (Southeast Asia, Middle East, Europe). Deployments are typically 6-12 months with rotation home.

Best for: MNs comfortable with explosive ordnance work who want high-paying, specialized technical roles.

Underwater robotics and ROV operations

Civilian job titles:

ROV pilot/technician
AUV (Autonomous Underwater Vehicle) operator
Underwater vehicle technician
Marine robotics technician
Subsea systems operator

Salary ranges:

Entry-level ROV technician: $50,000-$65,000
Offshore ROV pilot: $70,000-$95,000
Senior ROV supervisor: $90,000-$120,000
Saturation diving ROV tech: $100,000-$150,000+

What translates directly:

UUV/ROV operation and maintenance
Sonar and sensor systems operation
Underwater navigation and positioning
Technical troubleshooting
Mission planning and execution
Video and data analysis

Certifications needed:

ROV Pilot Technician certification (IMCA, AUVSI, or manufacturer-specific, $2,000-5,000)
Offshore survival training (HUET, $800-1,500)
Hydraulics and electrical training (often employer-provided)
Surface supplied diving (optional but valuable) ($5,000-$15,000)

Reality check: The offshore oil and gas industry employs ROV pilots for inspection, maintenance, and construction support on underwater infrastructure. Work schedules are typically 28 days on / 28 days off (offshore rotations).

Marine research institutions (Woods Hole, Scripps, NOAA) use ROVs for oceanographic research. These positions pay less than oil and gas but offer interesting scientific work and more stable schedules.

Underwater construction and inspection companies employ ROV operators for dam inspections, bridge pier inspections, pipeline surveys, and salvage operations.

Best for: MNs who loved UUV operations and want to continue working with underwater robotics in commercial sectors.

Marine research and oceanography

Civilian job titles:

Marine technician
Oceanographic research technician
Survey technician (NOAA)
Underwater systems research specialist
Marine instrumentation technician

Salary ranges:

Entry-level marine technician: $40,000-$55,000
Oceanographic technician: $50,000-$68,000
NOAA survey technician: $55,000-$75,000
Senior research specialist: $70,000-$90,000

What translates directly:

Sonar and sensor systems operation
Oceanographic data collection and analysis
Small boat and vessel operations
Equipment maintenance
Scientific methodology and documentation
UUV/ROV operations for research

Certifications needed:

AAUS Scientific Diver certification (if diving required, $1,000-3,000)
Small boat operator certification ($200-500)
First aid/CPR ($50-150)
Associate's or bachelor's degree (Marine Technology, Oceanography, or related field)

Reality check: Marine research positions typically pay less than defense contracting or oil and gas but offer fascinating work, stable schedules, and opportunities to contribute to scientific research.

NOAA hires survey technicians to operate aboard research vessels conducting oceanographic, fisheries, and mapping operations. These are federal positions with good benefits and veteran preference in hiring.

Major oceanographic institutions (Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, Scripps Institution of Oceanography, University of Washington) employ marine technicians to support research missions.

Best for: MNs who want to use their underwater systems skills in scientific research with better work-life balance than contractor work.

Law enforcement and federal agencies

Civilian job titles:

Maritime enforcement specialist
Coast Guard civilian positions
ATF explosive specialist support
FBI Hazardous Devices School support
Customs and Border Protection (marine interdiction)

Salary ranges:

Coast Guard civilian (GS-7 to GS-9): $52,000-$72,000
Federal agent (GS-9 to GS-11): $60,000-$85,000
ATF explosive specialist: $70,000-$95,000
Senior federal positions (GS-12+): $85,000-$115,000

What translates directly:

Explosive ordnance knowledge
Maritime operations experience
Security procedures and clearance
Technical equipment operation
Attention to detail and procedures
Small unit leadership

Certifications needed:

Federal law enforcement training (provided by agency)
Security clearance (SECRET or TOP SECRET)
Background investigation (comprehensive)
Physical fitness standards (varies by agency)

Reality check: Federal hiring processes are extremely slow—12 to 24 months is common. Start applications early.

Coast Guard Investigative Service (CGIS) and Maritime Enforcement employ civilians with Navy backgrounds. Your mine warfare experience can translate to maritime interdiction and port security roles.

ATF employs explosive specialists and technicians to support investigations involving explosives and improvised explosive devices. Your MN ordnance background is relevant.

Veteran preference gives you 5-10 points in federal hiring.

Best for: MNs who want federal benefits, job security, and stable careers with law enforcement or homeland security missions.

Skilled trades and technical roles

Civilian job titles:

Electronics technician
Hydraulics technician
Marine mechanic
Industrial maintenance technician
Instrumentation technician

Salary ranges:

Entry-level electronics tech: $45,000-$58,000
Hydraulics technician: $52,000-$70,000
Marine mechanic: $48,000-$68,000
Senior industrial maintenance tech: $65,000-$85,000

What translates directly:

Mechanical troubleshooting and repair
Electrical and electronic systems maintenance
Hydraulic systems knowledge
Preventive maintenance procedures
Technical documentation
Quality control

Certifications needed:

Electronics Technician certification (ETA-CET) ($200-400)
Hydraulics certification ($300-800)
NCCER certification (varies by trade)
Associate's degree in electronics or mechanical technology (use GI Bill)

Reality check: These careers offer stable employment with less travel than defense contracting. Manufacturing facilities, shipyards, and industrial plants need technicians with your troubleshooting skills.

Union positions typically offer better pay and benefits. IBEW (electrical), Machinists Union, and Teamsters have marine and industrial maintenance positions.

Best for: MNs who want stable local employment using their technical maintenance skills without security clearance requirements.

Skills translation table (for your resume)

Stop writing "Mineman" on your resume—most civilians have never heard of it. Translate your experience:

Military Experience	Civilian Translation
UUV/ROV operator	Operated unmanned underwater vehicles for detection and inspection missions; maintained 100% operational readiness
Mine countermeasures operations	Conducted underwater threat detection, classification, and neutralization using advanced sonar and sensor systems
Sonar systems operation	Analyzed acoustic data from multiple sensors to identify and track underwater objects with 95%+ accuracy
Explosive ordnance handling	Executed explosive handling procedures following strict safety protocols; zero safety incidents
LCS MCM detachment	Deployed aboard Littoral Combat Ships conducting maritime security and mine warfare operations
Technical maintenance	Diagnosed and repaired complex electro-mechanical, hydraulic, and electronic systems; maintained $5M+ equipment
Mission planning	Developed operational plans incorporating oceanographic, environmental, and tactical data
EOD team support	Provided technical support and equipment operation for explosive ordnance disposal missions

Use active verbs: Operated, Maintained, Analyzed, Conducted, Executed, Diagnosed, Developed, Coordinated.

Use metrics and numbers: "Operated 3 UUV platforms," "Analyzed 500+ hours of sonar data," "Maintained $8M equipment inventory," "Supported 25+ EOD missions."

Translate acronyms: "MCM" becomes "Mine Countermeasures," "LCS" becomes "Littoral Combat Ship," "UUV" can be spelled out as "Unmanned Underwater Vehicle" on first use.

Certifications that actually matter

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

High priority (get these):

Maintain your security clearance - If you hold a SECRET clearance, keep it active. Defense contractor positions pay $15K-$25K more with an active clearance. Update your SF-86 before separation.

ROV Pilot Technician certification - Industry-recognized credential for underwater vehicle operations. Organizations: IMCA (International Marine Contractors Association), AUVSI (Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International). Cost: $2,000-5,000 for training and certification. Time: 1-2 weeks. Value: Essential for commercial ROV work.

OSHA 10 or 30-hour safety certification - Required by many contractors and industrial employers. Cost: $50-300. Time: 1-3 days. Value: Industry standard.

First Aid/CPR/AED - Basic requirement for most technical positions. Cost: $50-150. Time: 1 day. Value: Often required.

Medium priority (depending on path):

Associate's degree in Marine Technology, Electronics, or Oceanography - Opens doors and provides credential recognition. Use GI Bill. Cost: $0 with GI Bill. Time: 2 years. Value: Required by some positions, helpful for all.

UXO Technician certification (Level I, II, III) - For EOD/UXO career path. Provided through DoD-approved programs. Cost: Varies (often employer-paid). Time: 2-8 weeks per level. Value: Essential for UXO/EOD work.

HAZMAT and HAZWOPER training - For positions involving hazardous materials or explosive ordnance. Cost: $500-1,000. Time: 40 hours. Value: Required for some explosive handling positions.

Diving certifications (Scientific Diver, Surface Supplied Diver) - If you want to combine diving with ROV work. Cost: $1,000-$15,000 depending on level. Time: Varies. Value: Significantly expands job options in marine sectors.

Lower priority (nice to have):

Bachelor's degree - Helpful for advancement to engineering or management positions. Consider Marine Engineering, Ocean Engineering, or related fields using GI Bill.

PMP (Project Management Professional) - Only if pivoting to program management roles. Cost: $500-3,000. Time: Study plus experience requirements.

Manufacturer-specific ROV certifications - VideoRay, Teledyne, Saab Seaeye, etc. Often provided by employers.

The skills gap (what you need to learn)

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

Explaining your job: Practice your "elevator pitch" about what a Mineman does. 90% of people you interview with won't know. Have a 30-second explanation ready: "I operated unmanned underwater vehicles and sonar systems to detect underwater threats, similar to underwater robotics used in marine research and offshore industries."

Civilian workplace culture: Navy has clear ranks and procedures. Civilian companies vary widely. Learn to navigate less formal hierarchies and workplace politics. Communication is less direct.

Computer skills: Learn Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), Google Workspace, and industry-specific software. Many technical positions use specialized software for data analysis, CAD, or mission planning. Build comfort with technology beyond what you used in the Navy.

Resume and interview skills: You'll need to sell yourself. Practice explaining technical work in simple terms. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for interview questions. Quantify your accomplishments.

Business understanding: If working for commercial companies (oil and gas, marine construction), understand that profit drives decisions. Learn basic business concepts if targeting management track.

Geographic flexibility: The best MN opportunities are near coasts—specifically San Diego, Norfolk, Kings Bay, Houston (oil and gas), and Seattle/Pacific Northwest. Be willing to relocate for the right position.

Real MN success stories

Tyler, 27, former MN2 → Defense contractor UUV technician, San Diego

Tyler spent 5 years in an LCS MCM detachment, operating and maintaining UUVs. Got out as an E-5 with a SECRET clearance. Applied to defense contractors supporting Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA). Hired by General Dynamics Mission Systems as a UUV technician at $68,000. After 3 years, promoted to senior technician making $88,000. His hands-on UUV experience and clearance made him immediately valuable.

Sarah, 29, former MN1 → ROV pilot, offshore oil and gas, Gulf of Mexico

Sarah served 7 years, including deployments with UUV platoons. Got out as an E-6 and completed ROV pilot training using GI Bill. Started as an ROV tech trainee with an offshore company at $55,000. After 2 years and advancing to pilot, now makes $95,000 working 28-on/28-off rotations. The schedule allows her to maximize income while having extended time off.

James, 31, former MN1 → UXO technician, Maryland

James did 8 years, working closely with EOD teams on mine neutralization. Got UXO Level II certification and hired by a UXO clearance contractor working on former military ranges. Started at $70,000, now makes $92,000 after 4 years. The work is demanding but his MN ordnance background and experience with EOD procedures translated directly.

Action plan: your first 90 days out

Here's your transition roadmap:

Month 1: Documentation and assessment

Get 10 certified copies of your DD-214
Request your JST (Joint Services Transcript) showing all MN training
Document your security clearance status and expiration date
Create a detailed list of specific systems you operated (UUV models, sonar systems, etc.)
Update resume using civilian terminology (use our transition toolkit)
Set up LinkedIn profile emphasizing UUV/ROV, sonar, underwater systems
Research 3-5 specific career paths

Month 2: Certifications and applications

Apply for OSHA safety certification ($50-300)
Get First Aid/CPR/AED certified ($50-150)
Research ROV certification programs (if going that route)
Apply to defense contractor positions on ClearanceJobs.com, Indeed, and company sites
Target companies: General Dynamics, Huntington Ingalls, Northrop Grumman, Leidos, DRS, Oceaneering
Apply to 10-15 positions per week
Enroll in associate's degree program using GI Bill (if needed)

Month 3: Network and interview preparation

Join veteran networking groups (LinkedIn, Facebook groups for Navy MNs)
Attend veteran job fairs (defense contractors actively recruit MNs)
Connect with former MNs who transitioned successfully
Practice explaining your MN experience in civilian terms
Tailor your resume for each position (use job posting keywords)
Follow up on applications
Consider temporary/contract positions to get experience

Ongoing strategies:

Defense contractor hiring can take 3-6 months (clearance verification)
Federal positions take 6-18 months (be patient)
Apply broadly while waiting
Network constantly—many positions aren't publicly posted
Keep your clearance active
Consider geographic relocation for better opportunities

Bottom line for Navy MNs

Your Mineman rating is one of the Navy's smallest and most specialized communities. That specialization is an asset, not a liability.

You operated unmanned underwater vehicles, analyzed sonar data, handled explosive ordnance, and maintained sophisticated maritime systems. Those are niche skills with direct civilian applications in defense contracting, underwater robotics, marine research, EOD support, and offshore industries.

Defense contractors actively seek former MNs because your training is expensive and specialized—they can't easily replicate it. Your UUV experience translates to commercial ROV operations. Your mine warfare knowledge applies to UXO clearance. Your sonar skills transfer to oceanographic research.

First-year civilian income of $50K-$70K is realistic. Within 5 years, $75K-$95K is achievable. Defense contractors with active clearances and specialized skills can reach $85K-$120K+. Offshore ROV pilots and overseas EOD contractors can exceed $120K-$150K.

The job market for former MNs is strong but geographically concentrated. Most opportunities are near Naval bases (San Diego, Norfolk, Kings Bay) or in maritime industries (Gulf Coast, Pacific Northwest). Be willing to relocate.

Don't undersell your experience. You're not "just" a sailor—you're a technical specialist in underwater systems, mine warfare, and robotics. Own that expertise.

The MN community is small. Connect with other former Minemen. They understand the transition and can help open doors.

Ready to build your transition plan? Use the career planning tools at Military Transition Toolkit to map your skills, research salaries, and track your certifications.

Bottom Line Up Front

Let's address the elephant in the room

Every MN who starts researching civilian careers faces the same challenge: "What's a Mineman?" "That job still exists?" "How does mine warfare translate to the civilian world?"

Here's the reality: Most civilians—including HR professionals—have no idea what you actually did. Your job is to educate them.

You didn't just "look for mines." You:

Operated and maintained UUVs and ROVs for underwater detection and neutralization
Analyzed sonar data to identify, classify, and locate underwater threats
Performed explosive ordnance handling and mine countermeasures procedures
Maintained sophisticated electronics, hydraulics, and mechanical systems
Worked alongside EOD teams on mine neutralization operations
Troubleshot complex underwater robotics and sensor systems
Executed mission planning using oceanographic and environmental data
Operated from Littoral Combat Ships (LCS), MCM ships, or UUV platoons

Best civilian career paths for Navy MNs

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

Defense contracting (highest demand)

Civilian job titles:

Underwater systems technician
UUV/ROV operator and maintainer
Mine warfare systems specialist
Sonar systems analyst
Explosive ordnance support technician
Maritime systems engineer

Salary ranges:

Entry-level systems technician: $52,000-$68,000
UUV/ROV operator: $60,000-$80,000
Mine warfare specialist: $70,000-$90,000
Senior systems engineer: $85,000-$110,000
Overseas contractor (specialized): $100,000-$150,000+

What translates directly:

UUV and ROV operation and maintenance
Mine warfare tactics and procedures
Sonar systems operation and data analysis
Explosive ordnance handling procedures
Technical troubleshooting of complex systems
Mission planning and oceanographic analysis

Certifications needed:

Maintain your security clearance (SECRET clearance worth $15K+ premium)
ROV Pilot Technician certification (IMCA or equivalent, $2,000-5,000)
Diving medical (if required for position) ($200-500)
OSHA 10/30 safety certification ($50-300)
First aid/CPR ($50-150)

Your clearance is essential. Many positions require SECRET or TOP SECRET clearance. If you have it, maintain it—don't let it lapse.

Best for: MNs who want to leverage their specialized technical skills immediately and maximize earning potential.

Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) support and technician roles

Civilian job titles:

EOD technician (civilian/contractor)
Unexploded ordnance (UXO) technician
Ordnance handling specialist
Explosive safety specialist
Range clearance technician

Salary ranges:

Entry-level UXO technician: $55,000-$70,000
EOD contractor (CONUS): $70,000-$95,000
Senior EOD technician: $85,000-$110,000
Overseas EOD contractor: $120,000-$180,000+

What translates directly:

Underwater explosive ordnance knowledge
Safety protocols and procedures
Sonar and detection equipment operation
Working alongside EOD teams
Risk assessment and identification
Operational planning

Certifications needed:

UXO Technician certification (Level I, II, or III through DoD programs)
HAZMAT certification ($200-500)
OSHA HAZWOPER training (40-hour, $500-1,000)
Security clearance (often required)
EMT certification (helpful, $1,000-2,000)

Reality check: UXO/EOD work involves clearing former military ranges, construction sites, and legacy conflict areas of explosive hazards. The work can be dangerous but pays well.

Some positions involve overseas work in countries with legacy mine contamination (Southeast Asia, Middle East, Europe). Deployments are typically 6-12 months with rotation home.

Best for: MNs comfortable with explosive ordnance work who want high-paying, specialized technical roles.

Underwater robotics and ROV operations

Civilian job titles:

ROV pilot/technician
AUV (Autonomous Underwater Vehicle) operator
Underwater vehicle technician
Marine robotics technician
Subsea systems operator

Salary ranges:

Entry-level ROV technician: $50,000-$65,000
Offshore ROV pilot: $70,000-$95,000
Senior ROV supervisor: $90,000-$120,000
Saturation diving ROV tech: $100,000-$150,000+

What translates directly:

UUV/ROV operation and maintenance
Sonar and sensor systems operation
Underwater navigation and positioning
Technical troubleshooting
Mission planning and execution
Video and data analysis

Certifications needed:

ROV Pilot Technician certification (IMCA, AUVSI, or manufacturer-specific, $2,000-5,000)
Offshore survival training (HUET, $800-1,500)
Hydraulics and electrical training (often employer-provided)
Surface supplied diving (optional but valuable) ($5,000-$15,000)

Underwater construction and inspection companies employ ROV operators for dam inspections, bridge pier inspections, pipeline surveys, and salvage operations.

Best for: MNs who loved UUV operations and want to continue working with underwater robotics in commercial sectors.

Marine research and oceanography

Civilian job titles:

Marine technician
Oceanographic research technician
Survey technician (NOAA)
Underwater systems research specialist
Marine instrumentation technician

Salary ranges:

Entry-level marine technician: $40,000-$55,000
Oceanographic technician: $50,000-$68,000
NOAA survey technician: $55,000-$75,000
Senior research specialist: $70,000-$90,000

What translates directly:

Sonar and sensor systems operation
Oceanographic data collection and analysis
Small boat and vessel operations
Equipment maintenance
Scientific methodology and documentation
UUV/ROV operations for research

Certifications needed:

AAUS Scientific Diver certification (if diving required, $1,000-3,000)
Small boat operator certification ($200-500)
First aid/CPR ($50-150)
Associate's or bachelor's degree (Marine Technology, Oceanography, or related field)

Major oceanographic institutions (Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, Scripps Institution of Oceanography, University of Washington) employ marine technicians to support research missions.

Best for: MNs who want to use their underwater systems skills in scientific research with better work-life balance than contractor work.

Law enforcement and federal agencies

Civilian job titles:

Maritime enforcement specialist
Coast Guard civilian positions
ATF explosive specialist support
FBI Hazardous Devices School support
Customs and Border Protection (marine interdiction)

Salary ranges:

Coast Guard civilian (GS-7 to GS-9): $52,000-$72,000
Federal agent (GS-9 to GS-11): $60,000-$85,000
ATF explosive specialist: $70,000-$95,000
Senior federal positions (GS-12+): $85,000-$115,000

What translates directly:

Explosive ordnance knowledge
Maritime operations experience
Security procedures and clearance
Technical equipment operation
Attention to detail and procedures
Small unit leadership

Certifications needed:

Federal law enforcement training (provided by agency)
Security clearance (SECRET or TOP SECRET)
Background investigation (comprehensive)
Physical fitness standards (varies by agency)

Reality check: Federal hiring processes are extremely slow—12 to 24 months is common. Start applications early.

Coast Guard Investigative Service (CGIS) and Maritime Enforcement employ civilians with Navy backgrounds. Your mine warfare experience can translate to maritime interdiction and port security roles.

ATF employs explosive specialists and technicians to support investigations involving explosives and improvised explosive devices. Your MN ordnance background is relevant.

Veteran preference gives you 5-10 points in federal hiring.

Best for: MNs who want federal benefits, job security, and stable careers with law enforcement or homeland security missions.

Skilled trades and technical roles

Civilian job titles:

Electronics technician
Hydraulics technician
Marine mechanic
Industrial maintenance technician
Instrumentation technician

Salary ranges:

Entry-level electronics tech: $45,000-$58,000
Hydraulics technician: $52,000-$70,000
Marine mechanic: $48,000-$68,000
Senior industrial maintenance tech: $65,000-$85,000

What translates directly:

Mechanical troubleshooting and repair
Electrical and electronic systems maintenance
Hydraulic systems knowledge
Preventive maintenance procedures
Technical documentation
Quality control

Certifications needed:

Electronics Technician certification (ETA-CET) ($200-400)
Hydraulics certification ($300-800)
NCCER certification (varies by trade)
Associate's degree in electronics or mechanical technology (use GI Bill)

Union positions typically offer better pay and benefits. IBEW (electrical), Machinists Union, and Teamsters have marine and industrial maintenance positions.

Best for: MNs who want stable local employment using their technical maintenance skills without security clearance requirements.

Skills translation table (for your resume)

Stop writing "Mineman" on your resume—most civilians have never heard of it. Translate your experience:

Military Experience	Civilian Translation
UUV/ROV operator	Operated unmanned underwater vehicles for detection and inspection missions; maintained 100% operational readiness
Mine countermeasures operations	Conducted underwater threat detection, classification, and neutralization using advanced sonar and sensor systems
Sonar systems operation	Analyzed acoustic data from multiple sensors to identify and track underwater objects with 95%+ accuracy
Explosive ordnance handling	Executed explosive handling procedures following strict safety protocols; zero safety incidents
LCS MCM detachment	Deployed aboard Littoral Combat Ships conducting maritime security and mine warfare operations
Technical maintenance	Diagnosed and repaired complex electro-mechanical, hydraulic, and electronic systems; maintained $5M+ equipment
Mission planning	Developed operational plans incorporating oceanographic, environmental, and tactical data
EOD team support	Provided technical support and equipment operation for explosive ordnance disposal missions

Use active verbs: Operated, Maintained, Analyzed, Conducted, Executed, Diagnosed, Developed, Coordinated.

Use metrics and numbers: "Operated 3 UUV platforms," "Analyzed 500+ hours of sonar data," "Maintained $8M equipment inventory," "Supported 25+ EOD missions."

Translate acronyms: "MCM" becomes "Mine Countermeasures," "LCS" becomes "Littoral Combat Ship," "UUV" can be spelled out as "Unmanned Underwater Vehicle" on first use.

Certifications that actually matter

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

High priority (get these):

Maintain your security clearance - If you hold a SECRET clearance, keep it active. Defense contractor positions pay $15K-$25K more with an active clearance. Update your SF-86 before separation.

OSHA 10 or 30-hour safety certification - Required by many contractors and industrial employers. Cost: $50-300. Time: 1-3 days. Value: Industry standard.

First Aid/CPR/AED - Basic requirement for most technical positions. Cost: $50-150. Time: 1 day. Value: Often required.

Medium priority (depending on path):

HAZMAT and HAZWOPER training - For positions involving hazardous materials or explosive ordnance. Cost: $500-1,000. Time: 40 hours. Value: Required for some explosive handling positions.

Lower priority (nice to have):

Bachelor's degree - Helpful for advancement to engineering or management positions. Consider Marine Engineering, Ocean Engineering, or related fields using GI Bill.

PMP (Project Management Professional) - Only if pivoting to program management roles. Cost: $500-3,000. Time: Study plus experience requirements.

Manufacturer-specific ROV certifications - VideoRay, Teledyne, Saab Seaeye, etc. Often provided by employers.

The skills gap (what you need to learn)

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

Civilian workplace culture: Navy has clear ranks and procedures. Civilian companies vary widely. Learn to navigate less formal hierarchies and workplace politics. Communication is less direct.

Real MN success stories

Tyler, 27, former MN2 → Defense contractor UUV technician, San Diego

Sarah, 29, former MN1 → ROV pilot, offshore oil and gas, Gulf of Mexico

James, 31, former MN1 → UXO technician, Maryland

Action plan: your first 90 days out

Here's your transition roadmap:

Month 1: Documentation and assessment

Get 10 certified copies of your DD-214
Request your JST (Joint Services Transcript) showing all MN training
Document your security clearance status and expiration date
Create a detailed list of specific systems you operated (UUV models, sonar systems, etc.)
Update resume using civilian terminology (use our transition toolkit)
Set up LinkedIn profile emphasizing UUV/ROV, sonar, underwater systems
Research 3-5 specific career paths

Month 2: Certifications and applications

Apply for OSHA safety certification ($50-300)
Get First Aid/CPR/AED certified ($50-150)
Research ROV certification programs (if going that route)
Apply to defense contractor positions on ClearanceJobs.com, Indeed, and company sites
Target companies: General Dynamics, Huntington Ingalls, Northrop Grumman, Leidos, DRS, Oceaneering
Apply to 10-15 positions per week
Enroll in associate's degree program using GI Bill (if needed)

Month 3: Network and interview preparation

Join veteran networking groups (LinkedIn, Facebook groups for Navy MNs)
Attend veteran job fairs (defense contractors actively recruit MNs)
Connect with former MNs who transitioned successfully
Practice explaining your MN experience in civilian terms
Tailor your resume for each position (use job posting keywords)
Follow up on applications
Consider temporary/contract positions to get experience

Ongoing strategies:

Defense contractor hiring can take 3-6 months (clearance verification)
Federal positions take 6-18 months (be patient)
Apply broadly while waiting
Network constantly—many positions aren't publicly posted
Keep your clearance active
Consider geographic relocation for better opportunities

Bottom line for Navy MNs

Your Mineman rating is one of the Navy's smallest and most specialized communities. That specialization is an asset, not a liability.

Don't undersell your experience. You're not "just" a sailor—you're a technical specialist in underwater systems, mine warfare, and robotics. Own that expertise.

The MN community is small. Connect with other former Minemen. They understand the transition and can help open doors.

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.