Aviation Boatswain’s Mates Fuels (ABF) not working on board a ship are called Aviation Fuels Shore Base Operations Technicians. Like their counterparts working the flight deck or below decks, they have the responsibility to guarantee the safe delivery and handling of JP5 aviation fuel to aircraft and storage facilities. By conducting Quality Assurances tests, they ensure that the fuel meets essential purity standards—a vital consideration because contaminated fuel can result in difficulties controlling engine thrust, among other problems. This is particularly important when it involves fuel being delivered for jet testing, since degraded engine performance due to contaminated fuel will skew test results and could have long-term ramifications.
A particularly important job for ABFs working Shore Base Operations Technicians is the inspection and maintenance of storage equipment. While storage leaks at sea are certainly of concern, the risk from leaks at shore-based storage facilities is sometimes compounded by the presence of aquifers that are the source of drinking water for both military and civilian personnel.
Aviation Boatswain’s Mates Fuels seeking employment after their service has ended will find jobs available in the 49-0000 Group of the Bureau of Labor Statistic Standard Occupational Codes (Installation, Maintenance, and Repair Occupations).
Important: While we might have this item in stock, low demand means this item is frequently manufactured to order. Please allow up to 10 business days processing time.