Launch Your Career as a Surface Maintenance Mechanic with the Nebraska Army National Guard
Are you a skilled mechanic looking for a career that offers more than just a paycheck? The Nebraska Army National Guard is currently seeking a highly motivated Surface Maintenance Mechanic to join our technical team in Hastings, Nebraska. This unique role blends civilian technical expertise with military service, ensuring that our essential tactical, combat, and commercial equipment remains in peak operational condition.
Job Responsibilities
As a Surface Maintenance Mechanic (WG-5801-5/8/10), you will be the backbone of our fleet maintenance operations. Your primary responsibilities include:
- Troubleshooting and Diagnostics: Utilizing advanced diagnostic tools to identify mechanical failures in heavy-duty equipment, including tanks, bulldozers, buses, and tactical vehicles.
- Major Repairs: Overhauling internal combustion engines, turbine engines, transmission systems, and complex hydraulic units.
- Readiness Inspections: Performing comprehensive preventive maintenance and ensuring all vehicles meet safety and operational standards prior to training exercises.
- Team Mentorship: Providing technical guidance to lower-graded mechanics and ensuring that all repairs follow established military technical manuals and modification work orders.
Requirements
This is a Title 32 excepted service position, which comes with specific requirements for entry:
| Requirement Category | Description |
|---|---|
| Military Affiliation | Membership in the Nebraska Army National Guard is mandatory. |
| Appearance | Must wear the military uniform daily. |
| Experience | Ranges from 6 to 18 months of specialized mechanical experience based on grade level (WG-05 to WG-10). |
| Security | Must obtain and maintain a required security clearance. |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive hourly wage ranging from $23.02 to $36.52 per hour. The specific grade level and corresponding pay are determined based on your documented experience, training, and technical proficiency as assessed during the hiring process.
Benefits
Employees in this role enjoy the stability and benefits associated with federal employment within the Department of the Army. Beyond salary, you gain access to high-level technical training, the opportunity to serve your country, and a clear career path within the federal system.
Application Tips
To stand out, your resume must be precise. Avoid generalities; list specific tools you have used, the types of engines or systems you have worked on, and the specific duration of your experience in months. Ensure your contact information is up to date and that you have met the initial cut-off date of May 20, 2026, to maximize your chances of early consideration.
Serving as a Surface Maintenance Mechanic for the Nebraska Army National Guard is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the safety and readiness of your fellow soldiers. If you have the technical skills and the desire to serve, we encourage you to submit your application through the USAJOBS portal today.
Why This Surface Maintenance Mechanic Job Matters
Launch your career with the Nebraska Army National Guard as a Surface Maintenance Mechanic—where your technical skills keep our tactical fleet mission-ready.
Surface Maintenance Mechanic Job Overview
The Nebraska Army National Guard is seeking a dedicated Surface Maintenance Mechanic to join our team in Hastings, Nebraska. This Title 32 excepted service position plays a vital role in the readiness of our tactical, combat, and commercial vehicle fleets. You will work within the Surface Maintenance Manager's Office, performing essential diagnostic, repair, and overhaul tasks to ensure our equipment meets the highest operational standards. As a uniformed member of the National Guard, you will serve both your state and your nation by maintaining the vehicles that allow our soldiers to train and deploy effectively.
Requirements for Surface Maintenance Mechanic
- Must be a member of the Nebraska Army National Guard or eligible for immediate enlistment.
- Must be willing to wear the military uniform daily.
- Must maintain appropriate security clearance/background investigation levels.
- Must meet military grade requirements (E1 to E7).
- Must have relevant experience or training using common hand tools.
- For WG-05: 6 months of experience in repetitive repairs under supervision.
- For WG-08: 12 months of experience in mechanical repairs and component installation.
- For WG-10: 18 months of experience diagnosing and overhauling complex systems.
Preferred Qualifications for Surface Maintenance Mechanic
- Experience in diesel and turbine engine overhaul.
- Proficiency with computerized diagnostic tools and electrical schematics.
- Demonstrated ability to perform repairs on hydraulic, pneumatic, and electronic control systems.
- Experience in technical leadership or training lower-graded mechanics.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal employment status within the Department of the Army.
- ✓Consistent training in state-of-the-art diagnostic technologies.
- ✓Career advancement opportunities within the National Guard technical workforce.
- ✓Comprehensive benefits package provided through the Army.
💡 How to Apply Surface Maintenance Mechanic Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Surface Maintenance Mechanic Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a detailed resume including hours worked per week and specific dates of employment.
- Complete the online Occupational Questionnaire.
- Upload required documentation such as your resume and optional documents (DD-214, SF-50).
- Submit your full application package before the closing date of September 26, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Be specific in your resume; do not assume the recruiter knows your past duties.
- Ensure your resume reflects the specific requirements of the WG grade you are applying for.
- Apply before the initial cut-off date of May 20, 2026, for priority consideration.
- Double-check that you are eligible for National Guard membership before applying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to be in the National Guard to apply?
Yes, this is an excepted service position that requires membership in the Nebraska Army National Guard. If you are not currently a member, you must be eligible for and willing to join as a condition of employment.
What is the pay range for this position?
The pay is based on an hourly rate, ranging from $23.02 to $36.52, depending on the specific WG grade (5, 8, or 10) for which you qualify.
Can I apply if I am not currently in the National Guard?
Yes, as long as you are willing and eligible to enlist in the Nebraska Army National Guard prior to the effective date of hire.
What is the trial period?
You may be required to complete a 2-year trial period to evaluate your fitness and performance in the role.
Job from Army National Guard Units
The National Guard is the oldest component of the United States Armed Forces. With a proud tradition dating back to the colonial era, our organization is dedicated to defending the nation and supporting our local communities during emergencies. By joining the Nebraska Army National Guard, you are becoming part of a professional team committed to service, excellence, and the readiness of our state's defense assets.