Production Controller (Aircraft) Opportunity with the Washington Air National Guard at Fairchild AFB

Are you a highly organized and detail-oriented professional with a knack for managing complex workflows? The Washington Air National Guard is seeking a skilled Production Controller (Aircraft) to join their dynamic team at Fairchild Air Force Base. This permanent, excepted service position offers a unique chance to contribute to critical aircraft maintenance operations and ensure the readiness of vital aviation assets. If you possess strong logistical, scheduling, and communication skills, and are looking for a rewarding career that supports national defense and your local community, this opportunity is for you.

About the Air National Guard

The Air National Guard stands as the oldest component of the U.S. Armed Forces, with a proud history dating back to colonial times. Its members serve their nation, states, and communities, providing a robust defense force that responds to both domestic emergencies and global security needs. The Air National Guard offers dedicated individuals the chance to serve part-time while maintaining civilian careers, or to pursue full-time service through technician positions like this one. Joining the Air National Guard means becoming part of a team committed to excellence, readiness, and community service.

Job Responsibilities

As a Production Controller (Aircraft) at the GS-9 level, your primary responsibility will be to implement preliminary and immediate maintenance plans for assigned aircraft weapon systems and transient aircraft. You will designate, maintain, and monitor current maintenance repair priorities to ensure compliance with flying schedules. This role involves authorizing and assigning aircraft maintenance jobs, including the use of job control numbers via manual or computerized systems, and setting work priorities and completion times for both scheduled and unscheduled maintenance.

Key duties include:

• Controlling and dispatching shop assignments, monitoring job completion progress.
• Managing maintenance for assigned aircraft, support equipment, and training equipment.
• Making on-the-spot adjustments to maintenance repair priorities due to unscheduled requirements and integrating them into daily plans.
• Maintaining visual aids that track maintenance status, specialist availability, and the location/status of aircraft, ground equipment, munitions, and vehicles.
• Keeping a visual schedule of daily flying activities, noting any deviations or cancellations.
• Coordinating with Materiel Control regarding the availability of parts (MICAP/NMCS status) and urgency of need.
• Determining sources for cannibalization actions.
• Liaising with Quality Assurance, Air Operations, other maintenance shops, and functional areas to ensure smooth operations.
• Requesting necessary support services, such as fire standby, refueling, and civil engineer support.
• Directing the physical movement of aircraft and aerospace ground equipment.
• Managing maintenance communications and transportation systems for efficient information flow and personnel/material movement.
• Developing procedural check sheets for emergency situations like mass loads, combat turnarounds, or aircraft crashes.
• Monitoring and revising sequences for contingency aircraft commitments.
• Performing data inputs and retrieving information from automated data systems.
• Conducting training for assigned military personnel.
• Performing other related duties as assigned.

Requirements

To be considered for this position, candidates must meet the following qualifications:

Basic Qualifications:

• Education: High School Diploma or GED.
• General Experience: Experience, education, or training that demonstrates the ability to reason in quantitative terms and communicate effectively both orally and in writing, understanding the terminology and data related to repair operations and production processes.
• Specialized Experience: A minimum of 24 months of experience, education, or training in:
  • Scheduling workflow across multiple areas.
  • Coordinating products or materials from support activities.
  • Performing or supervising journeyman-level work in a production facility.
  • Preparing job/work orders, scheduling project phases, and monitoring progress.
  • Adjusting materials, machine processes, and work sequencing for changes.
  • Utilizing automation support programs for data input, equipment status tracking, job order monitoring, priority management, and requisitioning/tracking repair parts.

Military Requirements:

• Military Grades: E4 - E5.
• Desired Military Assignments: 2AXXX, 2WXXX, 2RXXX.
• Membership: Must maintain current membership in the Washington Air National Guard. Selectees who are not currently members must be eligible for immediate membership and employment in the National Guard at the required military grade.
• Uniform: Acceptance of this position requires wearing the military uniform.
• Security Clearance: Must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
• Selective Service: Males born after December 31, 1959, must be registered.
• Driver's License: A valid driver's license may be required.
• Trial Period: May be required to successfully complete a trial period.
• Direct Deposit: Participation in direct deposit is mandatory.

Other Requirements:

• This is a Swing Shift Position, potentially requiring work outside normal duty hours, including overtime.
• The incumbent must be able to establish effective professional working relationships with coworkers and customers.
• Awareness of environmental responsibilities related to the job is essential.

Salary Overview

This position is graded at the GS-9 level. The annual salary ranges from $62,044 to $80,662 per year, depending on the applicant's qualifications and experience.

Benefits

As a permanent employee of the Washington Air National Guard, you will be eligible for a comprehensive benefits package. While specific details are not fully elaborated in the announcement, typical federal employee benefits often include:

• Health, dental, and vision insurance options.
• Life insurance coverage.
• Retirement plan (Federal Employees Retirement System - FERS).
• Paid time off, including vacation and sick leave.
• Paid federal holidays.
• Opportunities for professional development and training.

Specific details regarding benefits enrollment and eligibility will be provided during the hiring process.

Application Process

To apply for the Production Controller (Aircraft) position, follow these steps:

1. Create or Log In: Access your USAJOBS account at www.usajobs.gov. If you don't have an account, you'll need to create one.
2. Apply Online: Navigate to the job announcement and click the 'Apply' button.
3. Complete Application: Fill out the online application form completely and accurately.
4. Upload Documents: Submit all required documents. This includes:
   • Resume: Must be in your own words, no more than two pages, and detail your relevant experience, including dates, duties, position titles, and series/grade (if applicable).
   • MIL Form 174: This is mandatory. If you have no prior military service, indicate this on the form.
   • Optional Documents: Cover Letter, DD-214, SF-50 (latest non-award), Transcripts (if claiming education).
5. Review and Submit: Carefully review your entire application package for accuracy and completeness before submitting. Ensure all uploaded documents are clear and legible.

Application Deadline: July 12, 2026, at 11:59 PM Eastern Standard Time.

Application Tips

• Tailor Your Resume: Ensure your resume directly addresses the specialized and general experience outlined in the announcement. Use detailed descriptions and your own phrasing.
• Check for Completeness: Verify that all required documents are uploaded. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
• Understand Military Experience: Current Guard/Reserve members should clearly document their military work history, including dates of enlistment, duties, and types of orders (ADOS/AT/ST/AGR).
• Read Carefully: Pay close attention to all instructions, especially regarding resume content and formatting.
• Submit Early: Avoid last-minute submission issues by applying well in advance of the closing date.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Question	Answer
What is the salary range?	The annual salary ranges from $62,044 to $80,662.
What are the basic requirements?	A High School Diploma or GED, 24 months of specialized experience in production control/scheduling, and eligibility for Washington Air National Guard membership (E4-E5 military grades).
Do I need to be in the military now?	No, but you must be eligible for immediate membership and assignment within the Washington Air National Guard, and obtain the required AFSC within one year of appointment.
What does 'Swing Shift Position' mean?	It indicates that the role requires working non-standard hours, which may include evenings, nights, or rotating shifts. Overtime may also be necessary.
Is this a public or internal announcement?	This is an excepted service position open to the public (nguard/public hiring paths), but requires mandatory membership in the Air National Guard.
What is the security clearance requirement?	A Secret security clearance is required for this position.
How long is the application period?	The announcement is open from January 21, 2026, and closes on July 12, 2026.
Where can I find more information about the Air National Guard?	For general information about joining the Air National Guard, you can call 1-800-TO-GO-ANG. For specific vacancy details, refer to the announcement and provided contact information.

The Production Controller (Aircraft) position at Fairchild AFB offers a challenging and rewarding career path within the Air National Guard. By ensuring the efficient management and scheduling of aircraft maintenance, you will play a crucial role in maintaining operational readiness and supporting the mission of the National Guard. If you meet the qualifications and are ready to take on this important responsibility, we encourage you to apply. Join a team dedicated to service, excellence, and protecting our nation.