Marine Corps MOS · Aviation
7523 Pilot VMFA F/A-18 Qualified
Overview
A VMFA F/A-18 pilot operates an electronics-equipped fighter-attack aircraft. The pilot provides air defense and air support in all weather conditions, day and night.
Minimum clearance: Secret
Core Skills
- complex systems operation
- mission planning and execution
- sensor and weapons systems employment
- tactical communications
- situational awareness and decision making
- checklist and procedure discipline
- systems monitoring and fault recognition
- debriefing and after-action reporting
- risk management under stress
- team coordination and leadership
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 Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate
Career Growth
- FAA Airline Transport Pilot (ATP)
- FAA Certified Flight Instructor (CFI)
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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