AD — Aviation Machinist's Mate
Inspected, troubleshot, repaired, and overhauled aircraft engines, propellers, fuel and lubrication systems, and auxiliary power units on a flight schedule, documenting every task against technical publications.
Where AD experience fits
These civilian roles map closely to what a Navy Aviation Machinist's Mate already does:
- Aircraft Engine Mechanic
- Aviation Maintenance Technician
- Gas Turbine Field Service Technician
- Industrial Maintenance Mechanic
- Heavy Equipment / Diesel Mechanic
What you bring on day one
- Diagnosing and repairing turbine and reciprocating engines to published technical specifications
- Reading schematics, tech manuals, and test data to isolate mechanical faults
- Precision measurement, tooling, and torque work with tight tolerance control
- Maintenance documentation, parts tracking, and inspection sign-off discipline
- Working safely on live equipment under tight turnaround deadlines
Certifications to consider
- FAA Airframe & Powerplant (A&P)
- FAA Repairman Certificate
- SMRP Certified Maintenance & Reliability Technician (CMRT)
- OSHA 30-Hour General Industry
- SME Certified Manufacturing Technician (CMfgT)
Industries hiring AD talent
Aerospace & Defense
Aerospace and defense manufacturers, MRO shops, and primes run on precision, documentation, and mission discipline — exa…
Explore roles →Maintenance & Reliability
Nobody keeps complex equipment running like the military. Veteran maintainers and reliability leaders bring preventive d…
Explore roles →Manufacturing
Minnesota's manufacturing base — from medical device and food processing to metal fabrication and plastics — competes on…
Explore roles →Energy & Infrastructure
Power generation, utilities, water, and heavy infrastructure demand people who respect procedures, work safely around re…
Explore roles →Resume keywords for AD: aircraft engine mechanic, turbine engine maintenance, a&p eligible, preventive maintenance, troubleshooting. Add the ones that fit your experience so applicant-tracking systems surface your resume.
LockLeed roles in fields AD veterans move into
Live openings from our job board in the civilian fields listed above. These are real reqs — not every one will fit your experience, and applying is always free.
AD to Civilian FAQ
What civilian jobs can an AD (Aviation Machinist's Mate) do?
Common fits include Aircraft Engine Mechanic, Aviation Maintenance Technician, Gas Turbine Field Service Technician, Industrial Maintenance Mechanic, and Heavy Equipment / Diesel Mechanic. The right match depends on your specialty, leadership level, and interests.
Do I need a degree to use my AD experience?
Often no. Many of these roles value hands-on experience and certifications over a degree. Where a credential helps, we point you to the fastest path.
How do I put AD on a civilian resume?
Translate duties into civilian terms and lead with outcomes and numbers. Our free Resume Studio and MOS Translator do this for you in minutes.
Does LockLeed charge veterans?
Never. LockLeed is a veteran-owned staffing firm; our help is always free for job-seeking veterans.
Free help for your transition
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