Become a Machinist and Shop Lead with the Wisconsin Army National Guard

Are you a master of the machine shop with a drive to lead? The Wisconsin Army National Guard is currently looking for an experienced Machinist (WG-3414-12) to join the team at Camp Williams. This is more than just a job; it is an opportunity to provide high-level technical support to your state and nation.

Role Overview

As a Small Shop Chief, you will wear two hats. First, you are a technical expert performing precise machining tasks on conventional and CNC equipment. Second, you are a leader, managing the workflow for other machinists and ensuring the small shop functions efficiently.

Comparison of Responsibilities

Feature	Technical Duty	Leadership Duty
Scope	Precision part manufacturing	Shop scheduling & workflow
Tools	CNC & manual machine tools	Mentorship & staff guidance
Output	Finished, accurate parts	Operational mission readiness

Requirements

To be eligible for this position, you must:

Be a current member of the National Guard or willing to enlist.
Possess at least 18 months of specialized experience in machining.
Have the ability to interpret complex blueprints and drawings.
Demonstrate mastery of shop mathematics, including trigonometry.

Salary and Benefits

This position offers an hourly wage between $31.32 and $36.56. Beyond the paycheck, the federal benefits package is substantial, including a pension plan after five years, TSP (similar to a 401k), and 11 paid federal holidays. You will also enjoy three hours of designated fitness time per week to help maintain your health.

How to Apply

Prepare your resume with specific dates and duties.
Apply via the USAJOBS portal.
Verify your eligibility for military membership.

If you have the skills to program complex parts and the desire to lead a shop, the Wisconsin Army National Guard wants to hear from you. Take the next step in your professional career and serve your community today.

Why This Machinist (Indefinite) - Title 32 Job Matters

Elevate your technical career with the Wisconsin Army National Guard as a Small Shop Chief, combining precision machining mastery with leadership in a mission-critical role.

Machinist (Indefinite) - Title 32 Job Overview

The Wisconsin Army National Guard is seeking a skilled Machinist to serve in an indefinite position at the Combined Support Maintenance Shop (CSMS) located at Camp Williams. In this role, you will act as a Small Shop Chief, overseeing daily operations and managing a team of machinists while performing advanced, non-supervisory machining tasks. This role is ideal for a hands-on professional who excels in both CNC operation and team leadership within an excepted service environment.

Requirements for Machinist (Indefinite) - Title 32

Must be a member of the Wisconsin National Guard or eligible for immediate enlistment.
Must hold a compatible military grade between E-1 and E-9 or WO1.
Possess at least 18 months of specialized experience in conventional and CNC machining operations.
Ability to plan and lay out complex work from blueprints and technical drawings.
Must pass a federal suitability background investigation.
Compliance with the Lautenberg Amendment regarding domestic violence convictions.
Ability to wear assigned Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and work flexible hours when required.

Preferred Qualifications for Machinist (Indefinite) - Title 32

Advanced proficiency in geometric and trigonometric formulas for precision machining.
Proven experience in programming and operating a wide array of CNC and conventional machine tools.
Strong leadership capabilities with experience mentoring or supervising technical personnel.
Demonstrated ability to solve complex mathematical problems related to angular machining and thread chasing.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Federal pension eligibility after 5 years of service
✓Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with 401(k)-style investment options
✓11 paid federal holidays per year
✓Generous annual and sick leave accrual
✓Flexible work scheduling and work/life balance initiatives
✓Dedicated fitness and workout time (up to 3 hours per week)
✓Ongoing professional mentorship and specialized training

💡 How to Apply Machinist (Indefinite) - Title 32 Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Machinist (Indefinite) - Title 32 Job

Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
Prepare a detailed resume including specific employment dates (month/year) and a description of your machining duties.
Submit your complete application package through the online portal by the deadline.
Monitor your status via the USAJOBS dashboard after submission.
Await notification from the Human Resources Office regarding your eligibility.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume explicitly maps your experience to the specialized requirements listed (CNC, blueprints, etc.).
Verify your military membership eligibility with a recruiter before applying if you are not currently serving.
Upload all supporting documents well before the deadline to allow time for the system's security virus scan.
Double-check that your resume includes clear descriptions of machine types you have operated.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does an 'Indefinite' appointment mean?

It means the position is not permanent and does not have a guaranteed end date. You may be subject to separation with 30 days' notice, though there is a possibility for conversion to a permanent appointment if the role status changes.

Is military membership mandatory for this job?

Yes. This is an excepted service position that requires you to maintain membership in the National Guard and wear a military uniform while on duty.

Job from Army National Guard Units

The National Guard is the oldest component of the U.S. Armed Forces. As a dual-state and federal entity, the Wisconsin Army National Guard offers a unique work environment where civilian technical expertise meets military service. Working at the Combined Support Maintenance Shop (CSMS) means playing a vital role in ensuring that equipment and vehicles are ready for any mission, whether it is a local emergency or a national deployment.