You have the requisite love of aviation, not to mention years of experience maintaining aircraft in the military, but something’s missing. Without FAA certification, you’ll be limited in how you can put those attributes to work as a civilian.
In the civilian workforce, aviation maintenance technicians with a certification from the Federal Aviation Administration hold “highly transferable skills that can be used in a broad range of industries,” according to the administration.
Military aircraft mechanics have abilities “directly applicable” to civilian aviation that are “often developed and refined in the military,” according to aerospace recruiting firm Saxon Aerospace. Such skills may include “a blend of technical proficiency, attention to detail, and the ability to perform under pressure.”
Veterans with hands-on experience can apply some of that time toward their certification. Military or veteran education benefits may help cover the cost of training or exams, while companies often make a point to recruit mechanics or technicians with a military background.
Civilian Aviation Mechanics and Technicians
These mechanics and technicians “install, test, adjust, and repair equipment and systems in aircraft,” according to the federal Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). They work in hangars, in repair stations or on airfields.
The job typically requires a postsecondary credential from an FAA-approved program. Some new mechanics and technicians enter with an associate degree; others train on the job or in the military.
Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians
The FAA’s Aviation Mechanic certificate includes two ratings: Airframe (A) and Powerplant (P). Candidates may seek either or both.
Duties: Aircraft mechanics and service technicians, also known as airframe and powerplant (A&P) mechanics, diagnose and work on aircraft engines and assemblies, such as hydraulic and pneumatic systems, according to the BLS.
Median annual wage: $78,680 (May 2024)
Avionics Technicians
Duties: Avionics technicians “install, inspect, test, adjust, or repair avionics equipment, such as radar, radio, navigation, and missile control systems in aircraft or space vehicles,” according to the BLS.
Median annual wage: $81,390 (May 2024)
Joint DoD/FAA Testing Fast-Tracks Military Mechanics
In a partnership with the Community College of the Air Force, the FAA offers training courses and testing through the Joint Service Aviation Maintenance Technician Certification Council (JSAMTCC).
The FAA may grant credit toward a certification rating for certain military experience. The JSAMTCC administers FAA Airman Knowledge Tests to active-duty service members as well as reserve personnel, civilians, military retirees, veterans, and dependents with base access.
VA Education Benefits for Licensing and Certification
Department of Veterans Affairs education benefits pay for certain license and certification tests. Beneficiaries can receive reimbursement of up to $2,000 per test but not more than the actual cost of the test.
For recipients of the Post-9/11 GI Bill, the VA will charge you a month of benefit entitlements for every $2,578.64 in testing in the 2026-2027 academic year ($2,496.26 in 2025-2026). The Montgomery GI Bill-Active Duty, Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance and Fry Scholarship also pay for testing.
Find the Right Veteran Job
Whether you want to polish your resume, find veteran job fairs in your area or connect with employers looking to hire veterans, Military.com can help. Subscribe to Military.com to have job postings, guides, advice and more delivered directly to your inbox.
