Marine Corps MOS · Aviation
7509 Pilot VMA AV-8B Qualified
Overview
A VMA AV-8B qualified pilot operates attack aircraft to provide air support. The officer's flying duties focus on operating the AV-8B in the attack aircraft role.
Minimum clearance: Top Secret
Core Skills
- mission planning
- situational awareness
- risk management
- checklist and procedure compliance
- crew resource management
- data interpretation
- time-critical decision making
- communication and briefing
- team leadership
- problem solving under pressure
Civilian Software & Tools
- R
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft Outlook
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Microsoft Visio
- Microsoft Word
- AeroPlanner
Civilian Career Paths
- Commercial Aviation
- Aviation Management
- Unmanned Systems
- Project Management
Training & Development
Getting Started
- FAA Commercial Pilot Certificate
- FAA Instrument Rating
Career Growth
- FAA Airline Transport Pilot (ATP)
- FAA First Class Medical Certificate
What the Work Involves
- Use instrumentation to guide flights when visibility is poor.
- Start engines, operate controls, and pilot airplanes to transport passengers, mail, or freight, adhering to flight plans, regulations, and procedures.
- Work as part of a flight team with other crew members, especially during takeoffs and landings.
- Respond to and report in-flight emergencies and malfunctions.
- Inspect aircraft for defects and malfunctions, according to pre-flight checklists.
Related Occupations
- Commercial Pilots
- Air Traffic Controllers
- Airfield Operations Specialists
- Aircraft Service Attendants
Typical preparation for these civilian roles: a four-year degree or equivalent experience.
Equivalent Roles in Other Branches
Descriptions may be summarized for clarity. Verify all information with your branch career counselor or official military documentation before making career decisions.
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