I know aviation boatswains mates tow jets with tractors, ive heard bm's operate forklifts, cranes, etc.... im wondering if a boatswains mate could be a materials handler or excavator when they get out
Bos'n operate and maintain a lot of heavy equipment but what depends on the ship they are attached. On a smaller ship you may only have small boat davits, while on larger amphibs and supply ships you may have forklifts and cranes and other gear. Will it help you get a job on the outside? Possibly, if you go through the journeymen process for a specific piece or pieces of gear. Where it would help you would be military sea lift command.
BM's do all the b*?!^ work on a ship. Maybe when you're higher ranking and have all your quals.
If there is the need to use them then they will be trained. With many of those vehicle etc they apply only to base and not valid on the road. They would have to get a civilian licence. It will depend on where you are H-man
