Become a Surface Maintenance Mechanic with the Florida National Guard
Are you a master of the shop floor? Do you have a knack for diagnosing complex mechanical issues on heavy equipment? The Florida National Guard is looking for a skilled Surface Maintenance Mechanic to support our operations in Lake City, FL. This is a unique opportunity to apply your mechanical expertise in a high-stakes, rewarding environment where your work directly supports our mission.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will act as a primary troubleshooter and repair specialist. Your daily tasks will include:
- Diagnostics: Using embedded diagnostics and OEM system analyzers to identify faults in complex vehicular systems.
- Major Repairs: Disassembling and overhauling engines, transmissions, and heavy assemblies.
- System Maintenance: Performing routine preventative maintenance on hydraulic, pneumatic, and electrical systems.
- Inspections: Conducting readiness checks to ensure all equipment meets strict military safety and operational standards.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, applicants must meet specific criteria:
- Military Membership: Must hold or be eligible to join the Florida National Guard in ranks E1–E8.
- Experience: 18 months of specialized experience in repairing heavy, tactical, or combat vehicles.
- Documentation: Submission of a concise 2-page resume with references.
- Physical Ability: Capacity to perform strenuous work, including lifting and navigating cramped spaces.
Salary and Performance Overview
This position offers a competitive federal wage grade salary, reflective of your technical skill level and experience.
| Pay Grade | Hourly Range | Schedule |
|---|---|---|
| WG-10 | $34.66 - $40.46 | Per Hour |
Benefits
Working for the National Guard comes with significant advantages, including:
- Professional Growth: Ongoing technical training opportunities.
- Federal Stability: Job security within a federal service environment.
- Comprehensive Support: Access to military resources, benefits, and wellness programs.
Application Tips
- Format Matters: Keep your resume to exactly two pages. The HR office will reject longer documents.
- Be Descriptive, Not Redundant: Use your own words to describe your technical experience. Copy-pasting the job description will lead to disqualification.
- Military Status: If you are not yet a member of the National Guard, reach out to a recruiter early to understand the enlistment process.
This Surface Maintenance Mechanic position is more than just a repair role—it is a commitment to the readiness of the Florida National Guard. If you possess the mechanical talent and the drive to serve, we encourage you to submit your application by the July 10, 2026, deadline.
Why This Surface Maintenance Mechanic (Title 32) Job Matters
Launch a rewarding career in mechanical excellence with the Florida National Guard—where your technical expertise keeps our fleet mission-ready.
Surface Maintenance Mechanic (Title 32) Job Overview
The Florida National Guard is seeking a skilled Surface Maintenance Mechanic (Title 32) to join the FMS 12 team in Lake City. This role is pivotal in maintaining a diverse fleet of combat, tactical, and commercial vehicles. You will serve in an excepted service capacity, requiring dual-status military membership in the Florida National Guard. This is an exceptional opportunity for professionals with a strong background in heavy-duty equipment repair to apply their mechanical aptitude in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment.
Requirements for Surface Maintenance Mechanic (Title 32)
- Must be or be willing to become a member of the Florida National Guard.
- Must possess a military rank between E1 and E8.
- Must hold a valid driver's license for vehicle operation.
- Ability to perform strenuous physical tasks including lifting up to 40 pounds and working in confined or awkward spaces.
- Ability to wear required personal protective equipment (PPE) for extended periods.
- Must pass a background check appropriate for the position.
Preferred Qualifications for Surface Maintenance Mechanic (Title 32)
- Thorough knowledge of mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, and pneumatic systems on combat or heavy tactical vehicles.
- Advanced experience in troubleshooting and repairing diesel, turbine, and multi-fuel engines.
- Proficiency in using OEM diagnostic software and embedded equipment sensors.
- Demonstrated ability to perform precision overhauls on transmissions, fuel injection systems, and steering assemblies.
- Strong technical reading skills for interpreting blueprints, schematics, and technical manuals.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive hourly federal pay rates.
- ✓Access to comprehensive military-associated benefits packages.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and technical training.
- ✓Structured career progression within the Army National Guard.
- ✓Stability of federal employment.
💡 How to Apply Surface Maintenance Mechanic (Title 32) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Surface Maintenance Mechanic (Title 32) Job
- Log in to your USAJOBS account or create a new profile.
- Prepare a resume that is exactly 2 pages long and includes 3 professional references.
- Ensure your resume reflects detailed, relevant experience without merely copying the job description text.
- Upload required documents, including transcripts (if applicable), SF-50 (if prior federal employee), and DD214/Military orders.
- Complete the online questionnaire and application package through the USAJOBS portal.
- Submit your application before the closing date of July 10, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Tailor your resume to specifically showcase how your mechanical experience aligns with the WG-10 duties.
- Ensure your resume strictly adheres to the 2-page limit; submissions exceeding this will be disqualified.
- Do not copy and paste the vacancy announcement language directly into your resume.
- Verify your eligibility for Florida National Guard membership prior to applying.
- Use your most recent SF-50 if you have prior federal service.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to be a member of the National Guard to apply?
Yes, this is an excepted service position that requires, or the willingness to obtain, a compatible military assignment within the Florida National Guard.
Is a security clearance required?
This position involves specialized maintenance duties that may require meeting certain security and suitability standards associated with your military assignment.
What should I emphasize in my resume?
Focus on specific instances where you diagnosed and repaired complex mechanical, electrical, or hydraulic systems on heavy equipment or tactical vehicles.
What is Title 32?
This indicates an excepted service position within the National Guard, requiring dual-status as a technician and a military service member.
Can I use education to qualify?
Yes, but you must provide official or unofficial transcripts with your application if you intend to use education to substitute for specialized experience.
Job from Army National Guard Units
The Florida National Guard represents a legacy of service that spans generations. As part of the Department of the Army, our maintenance units ensure that our combat, tactical, and commercial fleets are always ready for action. By working with the National Guard, you aren't just taking a job; you are joining a community of professionals committed to the defense and service of our state and nation.