Navy MR (Machinery Repairman) to Civilian: Complete Career Transition Guide (2024-2025 Salary Data)
Real career paths for Navy Machinery Repairmen transitioning to civilian life. Includes salary ranges $45K-$95K+, machining certifications, welding credentials, and precision manufacturing jobs.
Bottom Line Up Front
Navy Machinery Repairmen manufacture precision parts using lathes, mills, drill presses, CNC machines, and welding equipment to repair shipboard machinery. That's precision machining, metal fabrication, welding, and machine shop operations—skills that translate directly to civilian manufacturing, machining, fabrication shops, and industrial maintenance. Realistic first-year salaries range from $45,000-$58,000, with experienced machinists and welders hitting $65,000-$80,000+. Tool and die makers, CNC programmers, and welding inspectors can reach $85,000-$95,000+. You'll need certifications (AWS welding, NIMS machining), but your hands-on Navy machine shop experience puts you ahead of civilian entry-level candidates.
Let's address the elephant in the room
Every MR looking at civilian careers sees the same discouraging narrative: "Machine shops are dying." "Manufacturing is dead in America." "You'll be competing with robots."
Here's the reality: advanced manufacturing is booming, and companies can't find skilled machinists and welders fast enough.
You didn't just "fix stuff." You:
- Manufactured replacement parts to tight tolerances using manual and CNC machinery
- Operated lathes, mills, boring machines, grinders, and computer-controlled equipment
- Read and interpreted engineering drawings, blueprints, and technical specifications
- Used precision measuring instruments (micrometers, calipers, gauge blocks, verniers)
- Performed welding, brazing, and metal fabrication for repairs
- Maintained quality control standards for critical components
- Worked independently and solved complex machining problems
- Operated safely in high-risk environments with rotating machinery and cutting tools
That's precision manufacturing, CNC machining, quality control, welding, and problem-solving. Those skills are in high demand across aerospace, defense, automotive, energy, and medical device manufacturing. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects favorable job opportunities for machinists and tool makers through 2033. You're not competing with robots—you're programming and maintaining them.
Best civilian career paths for MRs
Let's get specific. Here are the fields where MRs land jobs with real 2024-2025 salary data.
CNC machinist / CNC operator (most common entry path)
Civilian job titles:
- CNC machinist
- CNC machine operator
- CNC mill operator
- CNC lathe operator
- Multi-axis CNC programmer
Salary ranges:
- Entry-level CNC operator: $40,000-$50,000
- Experienced CNC machinist: $50,000-$65,000
- CNC programmer/setup: $60,000-$75,000
- Senior CNC machinist (aerospace/medical): $70,000-$85,000+
What translates directly:
- Operating CNC mills, lathes, and multi-axis machines
- Reading G-code and understanding CNC programming basics
- Using precision measuring tools to verify tolerances
- Setting up machines, selecting tooling, and adjusting feeds/speeds
- Inspecting finished parts for quality control
- Following engineering drawings and specifications
- Operating safely around machinery
Certifications needed:
- NIMS (National Institute for Metalworking Skills) Machining Level I credentials (industry-recognized standard). Cost: $100-$300 per credential. Value: High—most manufacturers recognize or require NIMS.
- Company-specific CNC training (Haas, Mazak, Fanuc controls—usually provided by employer)
- Blueprint reading certification (available through community colleges or NIMS)
- OSHA 10-hour safety (required by most manufacturers)
Reality check: CNC machining is where most MRs start. Manufacturing companies (aerospace, automotive, defense, medical devices) need CNC operators constantly.
Entry-level CNC operator jobs may feel repetitive—loading parts, hitting cycle start, inspecting. But once you prove yourself, you move into setup, programming, and running complex jobs. That's where pay increases significantly.
Defense contractors (Boeing, Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, General Dynamics) actively recruit veterans with machining experience. Aerospace and medical device companies pay top dollar for precision work.
Your Navy experience operating manual lathes and mills makes you more valuable than someone who only knows CNC. You understand machining fundamentals.
Best for: MRs who want immediate entry into manufacturing with clear advancement to programming and higher pay.
Manual machinist / precision machinist
Civilian job titles:
- Manual machinist
- Precision machinist
- Tool room machinist
- Maintenance machinist
- Job shop machinist
Salary ranges:
- Entry-level: $40,000-$50,000
- Journeyman machinist: $50,000-$65,000
- Master machinist / tool room: $65,000-$80,000
- Top earners (aerospace, tool & die): $75,000-$90,000+
What translates directly:
- Operating manual lathes, mills, drill presses, grinders, and boring machines
- Machining parts from raw stock to tight tolerances (+/- 0.001" or tighter)
- Reading complex blueprints and engineering drawings
- Using precision measuring instruments (micrometers, depth gauges, dial indicators)
- Selecting cutting tools, speeds, feeds, and coolant
- Solving machining problems and making custom parts
- Working independently with minimal supervision
Certifications needed:
- NIMS Machining credentials (Measurement, Materials & Safety, Job Planning, plus specific process credentials like Milling or Turning Level I & II)
- Journeyman machinist certification (through apprenticeship or trade school)
- OSHA 10 or 30-hour
Reality check: Manual machining is less common than CNC, but it's not dead. Job shops, maintenance shops, tool rooms, and prototype/R&D facilities all need manual machinists who can make one-off parts or repair components.
This work requires more skill and experience than running CNC. You're figuring out setups, calculating speeds and feeds, and solving problems without a programmed cycle.
Pay is good, especially in specialized industries (aerospace tool rooms, nuclear maintenance, shipyards). Your Navy MR experience operating manual equipment is exactly what these employers need.
Job shops (small manufacturing companies that make custom parts) hire manual machinists year-round. The work is varied—every job is different—and you're using all your skills.
Best for: MRs who prefer hands-on manual machining over CNC operation and like variety in their work.
Welder / welding technician
Civilian job titles:
- Welder
- Structural welder
- Pipe welder
- TIG/MIG welder
- Welding fabricator
Salary ranges:
- Entry-level welder: $38,000-$48,000
- Certified welder (AWS): $48,000-$62,000
- Pipe welder / specialized welding: $60,000-$80,000
- Underwater welder / high-demand specialties: $80,000-$120,000+
What translates directly:
- MIG, TIG, stick welding, and oxy-acetylene cutting
- Welding steel, stainless steel, aluminum, and other metals
- Reading weld symbols on blueprints
- Inspecting welds for quality and defects
- Following welding procedures and standards
- Working in confined spaces and awkward positions
- Safety protocols for hot work and welding fumes
Certifications needed:
- AWS (American Welding Society) Certified Welder (CW). This is performance-based testing. Cost: $300-$450 for single-position plate test. You pass by welding test coupons to standard. Value: High—required or strongly preferred by most employers.
- Specific AWS certifications by process and position (e.g., GMAW plate, GTAW pipe, etc.)
- Structural welding certifications (AWS D1.1 for steel structures, D1.6 for stainless)
- Pipe welding certifications (6G position certification for pipeline/oil & gas work)
Reality check: Welding is in massive demand. Construction, manufacturing, shipyards, pipelines, oil & gas, and fabrication shops all need welders.
Your Navy welding experience—repairing shipboard systems, working in tight spaces—translates well. But civilian welding often requires specific certifications for code compliance.
AWS Certified Welder is the gold standard. Get that cert, and you're employable immediately. Pipe welding pays the most, but it's also the hardest to certify (6G position welding is no joke).
Structural welding (buildings, bridges) and industrial welding (manufacturing, refineries) offer steady work. Underwater welding pays $80K-$120K+ but requires commercial diving certification and is dangerous work.
Shipyards (Newport News, Bath Iron Works, General Dynamics) actively hire veteran welders. Defense contractors need certified welders for fabrication and repair work.
Best for: MRs who focused on welding in the Navy and want high-demand trade work with strong earning potential.
Tool and die maker
Civilian job titles:
- Tool and die maker
- Mold maker
- Toolmaker
- Die maker
- Precision toolmaker
Salary ranges:
- Apprentice / entry-level: $45,000-$55,000
- Journeyman tool and die maker: $60,000-$75,000
- Experienced tool maker: $70,000-$85,000
- Top earners (automotive, aerospace): $85,000-$95,000+
What translates directly:
- Precision machining to extremely tight tolerances (+/- 0.0001")
- Reading complex engineering drawings and CAD models
- Operating manual and CNC machines for tool fabrication
- Using precision measuring equipment (CMM, surface plates, optical comparators)
- Problem-solving and creating custom tooling solutions
- Heat treating, grinding, and finishing hardened steel
Certifications needed:
- Tool and die maker apprenticeship (4-5 years, combines classroom and on-the-job training)
- NIMS credentials (multiple levels—Machining Level II, Grinding, EDM)
- Journeyman tool and die maker certification (state or union)
Reality check: Tool and die work is the highest-skilled machining trade. You're making the tools, molds, dies, and fixtures that manufacturers use to produce parts. It requires advanced machining knowledge and extreme precision.
This is not an entry-level job. Most tool and die makers complete 4-5 year apprenticeships. But if you have strong Navy MR machining skills and want to invest in a high-paying career, this is the path.
Automotive and aerospace industries employ most tool and die makers. Demand is steady, pay is excellent, and the work is challenging.
Your Navy MR experience gives you a strong foundation. You'll need additional training through an apprenticeship or advanced machining program (many community colleges offer them, covered by GI Bill).
Best for: MRs willing to invest 4-5 years in an apprenticeship for top-tier machining pay and job security.
Industrial maintenance mechanic / millwright
Civilian job titles:
- Industrial maintenance mechanic
- Maintenance machinist
- Plant machinist
- Millwright
- Industrial mechanic
Salary ranges:
- Entry-level: $40,000-$52,000
- Experienced mechanic: $52,000-$68,000
- Millwright / union mechanic: $65,000-$85,000+
What translates directly:
- Machining replacement parts for equipment repairs
- Fabricating custom components and brackets
- Operating machine shop equipment for maintenance work
- Reading blueprints and making parts from sketches
- Troubleshooting mechanical failures and designing solutions
- Working under time pressure to minimize downtime
Certifications needed:
- OSHA 10 or 30-hour
- NIMS Machining credentials (optional but valuable)
- Millwright apprenticeship (if pursuing union millwright work)
- Industrial maintenance certifications (through employers or technical schools)
Reality check: Many manufacturers have in-house machine shops for making replacement parts and modifying equipment. They need maintenance machinists who can operate lathes, mills, and welders to keep production running.
This is hybrid work—part machinist, part maintenance mechanic. You're not running production jobs; you're making the part that's needed RIGHT NOW to fix a broken machine.
Your Navy MR background is perfect for this. You made parts under pressure to keep ship systems operational. That's exactly what plant machinists do.
Pay is solid, work is steady, and you're valued because downtime costs companies thousands per hour. Manufacturing plants, power plants, mines, and large facilities all need maintenance machinists.
Best for: MRs who want variety, problem-solving, and the satisfaction of keeping operations running.
Quality control inspector / quality technician
Civilian job titles:
- Quality control inspector
- QC technician
- Dimensional inspector
- First article inspector
- CMM programmer/operator
Salary ranges:
- Entry-level QC inspector: $40,000-$50,000
- Experienced inspector: $50,000-$65,000
- CMM programmer: $60,000-$75,000
- Quality engineer (with degree): $70,000-$90,000+
What translates directly:
- Using precision measuring instruments (micrometers, calipers, height gauges)
- Reading and interpreting engineering drawings and GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing)
- Inspecting parts to verify compliance with specifications
- Documenting measurements and defects
- Understanding manufacturing processes and tolerances
- Attention to detail and following inspection procedures
Certifications needed:
- ASQ Certified Quality Inspector (CQI) (American Society for Quality). Cost: $300-$500 for exam. Value: High—recognized industry-wide.
- NIMS Measurement, Materials & Safety credential (covers precision measurement)
- CMM training and certification (for Coordinate Measuring Machine operation)
- Blueprint reading and GD&T training
Reality check: Quality control is critical in aerospace, medical device, automotive, and defense manufacturing. Parts must meet exact specifications, and inspectors verify compliance.
This is less physical than machining and welding, but requires strong technical knowledge and attention to detail. Your Navy MR experience using precision measuring tools makes you a strong candidate.
CMM operator roles pay well because CMM machines are expensive and require skilled operators. Many MRs transition into QC after a few years in machining.
Work environment is typically clean (quality lab or inspection floor). Hours are often day shift (M-F), which appeals to MRs with families.
Defense contractors and aerospace companies need inspectors who can get security clearances—your military background is an advantage.
Best for: MRs who want to use their technical knowledge in a less physical role with good work-life balance.
Skills translation table (for your resume)
Stop writing "Machinery Repairman" on your resume. Civilians don't know what that means. Here's how to translate:
| Navy Skill | Civilian Translation |
|---|---|
| Operated manual lathe and mill | Machined precision parts using manual lathes and milling machines to tolerances of +/- 0.001" |
| Operated CNC machinery | Operated CNC mills and lathes; set up machines, selected tooling, and verified part dimensions |
| Fabricated replacement parts using blueprints | Interpreted engineering drawings and machined custom parts from raw stock |
| Used precision measuring instruments | Inspected parts using micrometers, calipers, dial indicators, and gauge blocks |
| Performed MIG/TIG welding for repairs | Welded steel and aluminum components using GMAW and GTAW processes per specifications |
| Maintained machine shop equipment | Performed preventive maintenance on lathes, mills, grinders, and CNC machines |
| Read and interpreted technical drawings | Analyzed blueprints, engineering drawings, and technical specifications for fabrication |
| Operated boring mills and grinders | Set up and operated horizontal boring mills and surface grinders for large component machining |
| Conducted quality inspections | Verified part dimensions and tolerances using precision measuring equipment |
Use active verbs: Machined, Fabricated, Operated, Welded, Inspected, Programmed, Manufactured.
Use numbers: "Machined 200+ precision parts per quarter," "Maintained $2M+ machine shop equipment," "Achieved 99% first-pass quality rate."
Drop Navy acronyms. Spell out technical terms or rephrase for civilian understanding.
Certifications that actually matter
Here's what's worth your time and GI Bill benefits:
High priority (get these first):
NIMS Machining Level I credentials - Industry-standard certification for machinists. Start with "Measurement, Materials & Safety" (required for all) plus "Job Planning, Benchwork & Layout," then add process credentials (Milling Level I, Turning Level I, Drilling, Grinding). Cost: $100-$300 per credential. Time: 2-6 months. Value: High—recognized by manufacturers nationwide.
AWS Certified Welder (CW) - If you did welding in the Navy, get this. Performance-based test (you weld test coupons to standard). Start with GMAW (MIG) or GTAW (TIG) plate in flat or horizontal position. Cost: $300-$450 per test. Value: High—required or strongly preferred by most employers hiring welders.
OSHA 10-hour Safety Certification - Required by most manufacturing employers. Covers general industry safety. Online course, takes 1 day. Cost: $50-$100. Value: High—basic entry requirement.
Blueprint Reading and GD&T training - Many community colleges and technical schools offer courses. Cost: $200-$500. Time: 4-8 weeks. Value: High—GD&T knowledge is required for precision machining and QC roles.
Medium priority (if it fits your path):
CNC Programming training - If you want to move beyond operating into programming, learn G-code and CAM software (Mastercam, Fusion 360). Many community colleges offer courses. Cost: $500-$2,000 (covered by GI Bill). Time: 1-2 semesters. Value: High—CNC programmers earn $60K-$80K+.
Journeyman machinist or welder certification - Through union or state apprenticeship programs. Typically 4 years. Your Navy MR time may count toward required hours. Cost: Low (apprenticeships are paid). Value: High—union journeyman status opens high-paying jobs.
ASQ Certified Quality Inspector (CQI) - If you're pursuing quality control roles. Requires passing an exam. Cost: $300-$500. Time: 1-3 months study. Value: Medium-High—valued in aerospace and medical device manufacturing.
AWS Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) - Advanced certification for welding inspection (not welding). Requires experience and passing written exam. Cost: $1,500-$3,000 including prep course. Time: 6-12 months. Value: High—CWIs earn $60K-$85K+.
Low priority (nice to have, not critical):
CAD software training - SolidWorks, AutoCAD, or Fusion 360. Useful if you want to move into design or programming. Cost: $500-$2,000 for courses. Value: Medium—helps for career advancement but not required for entry-level machining.
Forklift and crane operator certifications - Useful in some shops. Cost: $100-$300. Value: Low—usually provided by employer if needed.
The skills gap (what you need to learn)
Let's be honest. There are civilian skills you may need to develop.
GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing): Civilian engineering drawings use GD&T symbols to specify tolerances. Navy blueprints may use older dimensioning standards. Learn GD&T—it's critical for aerospace, automotive, and medical device manufacturing. Free resources online, or take a community college course.
CAM software and CNC programming: If you want to move beyond CNC operation, you need to learn computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) software like Mastercam or Fusion 360. This is how CNC programs are created. Community colleges and technical schools teach this.
Quality management systems: Civilian manufacturing uses ISO 9001, AS9100 (aerospace), or other quality standards. You'll need to understand documentation, traceability, and quality procedures. Most companies provide training, but familiarizing yourself helps.
Computer skills: You'll need basic proficiency with email, Microsoft Office, and shop floor software (ERP systems for work orders, inventory, time tracking). If your Navy work was mostly hands-on, spend time learning computer basics.
Civilian safety culture and OSHA standards: Navy safety is mission-focused. Civilian safety is OSHA-compliance focused. Learn lockout/tagout (LOTO), machine guarding, PPE requirements, and hazard communication. OSHA 10 or 30-hour course covers this.
Real MR success stories
Jason, 27, former MR3 (E-4) → CNC machinist, aerospace manufacturer
Jason spent 4 years as an MR on a cruiser, operating manual and CNC machinery. After separation, he got his NIMS credentials and OSHA 10. Applied to 15 manufacturing companies, got 4 offers. Started as a CNC operator at a defense contractor making $48K. After 2 years, moved into CNC setup and programming at $68K. Company paid for advanced CNC training. Now he's a senior machinist making $74K with excellent benefits.
Brian, 30, former MR2 (E-5) → Certified welder, pipeline construction
Brian focused on welding in the Navy. Got out and immediately took the AWS Certified Welder test for GMAW and GTAW—passed both. Started with a structural welding company at $52K. After a year, got his 6G pipe welding cert. Moved to pipeline construction making $78K with per diem and overtime. Hard work (60-70 hour weeks, travel), but he's banking money and plans to start his own welding business in a few years.
Carlos, 32, former MR1 (E-6) → Quality inspector, medical device company
Carlos had 8 years as an MR, including time as a work center supervisor. Wanted a less physical job after leaving. Used his GI Bill to take quality control and GD&T courses. Got his ASQ Certified Quality Inspector (CQI) credential. Hired by a medical device manufacturer at $58K. Work is day shift, climate-controlled lab. After 3 years, he's making $68K and studying for his quality engineer certification. Says it's the best decision he made.
Action plan: your first 90 days out
Here's what to actually do when you transition:
Month 1: Assessment and setup
- Update your resume using the skills translation table above
- Get your DD-214, JST (Joint Services Transcript), and Navy training records
- Research NIMS and AWS certifications relevant to your MR specialty (machining vs. welding)
- Set up LinkedIn profile emphasizing CNC machining, precision manufacturing, or welding
- Identify target industries (aerospace, automotive, defense, medical devices)
- Apply for VA disability if applicable
Month 2: Certifications and applications
- Get OSHA 10-hour certification (online, 1 day)
- Get NIMS credentials or AWS welding certification (depending on your focus)
- Apply to 10-15 jobs per week on Indeed, LinkedIn, company sites (Boeing, Lockheed, Northrop, General Dynamics, Textron, local job shops)
- Attend manufacturing and veteran job fairs (bring resumes, dress business casual)
- Connect with veteran service organizations (Hiring Our Heroes, American Corporate Partners)
- Research local community college machining or welding programs if you're using GI Bill
Month 3: Networking and interviews
- Tailor your resume for each job (emphasize CNC, manual machining, welding—whatever matches the job)
- Practice interview answers focusing on precision, quality, problem-solving, and safety
- Bring a portfolio if possible (photos of parts you machined, welding samples, certifications)
- Network with other MRs who transitioned (LinkedIn groups, veteran machinist communities)
- Consider temp-to-hire or contract machining jobs if direct hire takes time (many convert to full-time)
- Apply to shipyards and defense contractors (they value security clearance eligibility)
Bottom line for MRs
Your Navy machine shop and fabrication experience isn't outdated—it's exactly what American manufacturing needs.
You made precision parts under pressure to keep critical systems running. You operated lathes, mills, CNC machines, and welding equipment. You read blueprints, measured to tight tolerances, and solved machining problems. Those skills are in demand.
CNC machining, precision manufacturing, welding, and quality control are proven career paths for MRs. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects continued demand for skilled machinists and welders. Manufacturing companies can't find enough qualified people.
First-year income of $45K-$58K is realistic. Within 5 years, $65K-$80K is achievable in machining or welding. Tool and die makers, CNC programmers, and specialized welders can exceed $85K.
Get your NIMS machining credentials or AWS welding certifications immediately. Target defense contractors, aerospace, and advanced manufacturers who need your skills and value veteran experience.
Don't believe anyone who says "manufacturing is dead." American manufacturing is evolving, and MRs are positioned perfectly to succeed in it.
Ready to build your transition plan? Use the career planning tools at Military Transition Toolkit to map your machining and welding skills, research certifications, and connect with manufacturing employers.