As you say you are going for your C licence, it would suggest you are an engine fitter in the raf. I am sure you are aware that you will need to become an rigger in civvy street. However, some companies, historically, still loosely use the old raf trade boundaries when it comes to engines. FLS at Stansted has a number of a&c engineers who are sooties thru and thru. (Or at least they did when i worked there). However, chronic shortages of engineers is probably putting a stop to this.
As i mentioned, i used to work at fls, and although plenty of people have bad things to say about the company, it could be a good option for you for a number of reasons.
1. With licences and overtime you could expect to double your pay. (I wouldnt get out of bed for 19k!)
2. 3rd party maintenance is ideal for experience and courses. (I did 7 type courses when i was there).
3. There are still a lot of good blokes working there even though the management havent got a clue.
Incidentally, you are leaving the raf at a good time. The manpower situation in the industry is desperate. This has come about over the last ten years because of the following;
1. The end of the cold war has meant cut backs in the forces. The industry used to rely heavily on a constant flow of experienced engineers leaving the raf. This has dried up considerably.
2. The recession in the early nineties meant early retirement for many seasoned engineers and cost saving cutbacks meant training and apprenticeships were put on hold.
3. Kids leaving school want a job with a suit, a computer and a mobile phone.Oddly enough, they dont seem to keen to spray freight bays with dinitrol! cant think why.
All this adds up to a very healthy condition for the experienced, qualified engineer. Leaving the air force will be the best thing you will ever do.
Finally, the suggestion to go contracting is a good one. Not only will you gain good experience and good money, but you will be able to sample a few places before you move. If you get your a&c, you may find that you will get relocation expenses.
Good luck.