Launch Your Aviation Career: Sheet Metal Mechanic (Aircraft) with the Nebraska Air National Guard

Are you a skilled technician looking to apply your talents to high-stakes aviation environments? The Nebraska Air National Guard is currently hiring a Sheet Metal Mechanic (Aircraft) for the 155th Maintenance Squadron in Lincoln, Nebraska. This is more than just a job; it is a commitment to ensuring the safety and readiness of our national defense assets.

Job Responsibilities

As a Sheet Metal Mechanic, you will be responsible for the structural integrity of aircraft. Key duties include:

Inspecting aircraft for damage and determining repair needs.
Fabricating and installing structural components like bulkheads, spars, and skin.
Repairing complex composite and bonded honeycomb materials.
Aligning and balancing airframes using precision measuring tools.
Operating industrial shop equipment including power shears, brakes, and riveters.

Requirements

This position is in the excepted service, requiring specific commitments:

Military Membership: You must be or become a member of the Nebraska Air National Guard.
Compatibility: Candidates must maintain a compatible military grade (E-3 to E-6).
Clearance: Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
Experience: Applicants must demonstrate specific experience in metal fabrication and aircraft structural repair.

Salary and Comparison Table

Compensation for this role is based on an hourly scale. Below is a breakdown of the typical structure.

Pay Grade	Hourly Minimum	Hourly Maximum	Potential
WG-08	$28.00	$36.52	Promotion to WG-10
WG-10	$28.00	$36.52	Full Performance

Benefits

Competitive hourly wages.
Potential for up to 25% recruitment or relocation incentives.
Professional development and training in advanced aviation maintenance.
Access to federal benefits and career stability.

Application Tips

To stand out during the review process, ensure your resume clearly mirrors the language of the job duties. Use specific examples of your work with different metals and structural components. Always verify your eligibility for National Guard membership before applying.

If you have the precision, dedication, and technical skill to maintain aircraft structures, we encourage you to apply. This role offers the perfect blend of technical work and service to the state of Nebraska.

Why This Sheet Metal Mechanic (Aircraft) Job Matters

Take your career to new heights as an Aircraft Sheet Metal Mechanic with the Nebraska Air National Guard. Master the craft of precision aviation maintenance in a mission-critical role.

Sheet Metal Mechanic (Aircraft) Job Overview

The Nebraska Air National Guard is currently seeking a skilled Sheet Metal Mechanic (Aircraft) to support the 155th Maintenance Squadron in Lincoln, Nebraska. This role involves the intricate repair, modification, and fabrication of aircraft structures. You will play a vital role in maintaining the operational readiness of our fleet, ensuring every component meets the highest safety and performance standards. This position is open to individuals willing to serve as members of the Air National Guard.

Requirements for Sheet Metal Mechanic (Aircraft)

Must be or become a member of the Nebraska Air National Guard
Must maintain a compatible military assignment and grade (E-3 to E-6)
Must hold or be able to obtain a Secret security clearance
Must pass all required background investigations
Must be able to wear the official military uniform
Must meet physical and technical qualifications for AFSC 2A7X3

Preferred Qualifications for Sheet Metal Mechanic (Aircraft)

Experience in complex sheet metal layout and fabrication
Proficiency with composite materials and honeycomb structures
Ability to read and interpret complex technical blueprints and schematics
Advanced experience with power shears, brakes, and precision measuring tools

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive hourly compensation
✓Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives up to 25% of basic pay
✓Training and development opportunities
✓Comprehensive federal benefits package
✓Access to state-of-the-art aviation maintenance facilities
✓Service to community and nation

💡 How to Apply Sheet Metal Mechanic (Aircraft) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Sheet Metal Mechanic (Aircraft) Job

Create or update your USAJOBS profile
Prepare a detailed resume highlighting relevant aviation or mechanical experience
Submit all required documents, including SF-50 and transcripts if applicable
Complete the online questionnaire via the provided link
Monitor your email for status updates and follow-up communication

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume includes dates of employment in Month/Year format and clearly defines hours worked per week.
Address both general and specialized experience requirements explicitly in your resume.
Contact the local recruiting office early if you have questions regarding your eligibility for National Guard membership.
Submit your application package well before the deadline to allow for system processing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is military membership required for this position?

Yes. This is a Title 32 excepted service position, which requires membership in the Nebraska Air National Guard in a compatible military assignment.

What is the pay range for this role?

The pay rate for this position is between $28.00 and $36.52 per hour.

Can I be promoted from a WG-8 to a WG-10?

Yes. Trainees hired at the WG-8 level may be eligible for promotion to WG-10 upon completing six months of experience and meeting specific development and classification requirements.

What if I am not currently in the National Guard?

If you are not a member, you must be eligible for immediate enlistment into the Nebraska Air National Guard to be considered for this role.

How often is the position reviewed?

The first cutoff for consideration is November 12, 2025. Applications received after this date may be reviewed periodically based on agency needs.

Job from Air National Guard Units

The National Guard is the oldest component of the Armed Forces of the United States. Serving the dual mission of supporting state emergencies and contributing to national defense, our members are the backbone of community safety. By joining the Air National Guard, you become part of a tradition of service that dates back to the founding of our country.