Advance Your Career as a Surface Maintenance Mechanic Leader
Are you a dedicated mechanic with a passion for leadership? The Virginia Army National Guard is looking for a Surface Maintenance Mechanic Leader to join our team at Fort Pickett. This role is essential for maintaining the operational readiness of our tactical fleet.
Job Responsibilities
As a leader, your primary responsibilities will bridge the gap between management and technical execution. You will:
- Assign Work Orders: Evaluate the skills of your team and delegate tasks appropriately.
- Technical Oversight: Ensure all repairs comply with established safety and shop procedures.
- Diagnostics: Troubleshoot complex mechanical failures in combat and tactical vehicles using advanced tools.
- Mentorship: Provide guidance to junior mechanics on major overhauls and electrical systems.
Role Comparison
| Feature | Surface Maintenance Mechanic | Mechanic Leader (This Role) |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Individual Repair | Team Leadership & Scheduling |
| Focus | Task Execution | Quality Control & Diagnostics |
| Responsibility | Maintenance | Resource Allocation |
Requirements
To be considered for this position, you must meet the following criteria:
- Membership: Current E5-E8 member of the VA Army National Guard.
- Experience: 24 months of specialized experience equivalent to WL-09.
- Administrative Ability: Competence in reading blueprints and interpreting technical publications.
Salary and Benefits
The position offers a competitive hourly rate ranging from $34.94 to $40.75. As a federal employee, you gain access to comprehensive benefits, stability, and the opportunity to serve your community in a meaningful way.
Application Tips
- Be Precise: Provide exact dates and hours for every job listed on your resume.
- Adhere to Limits: Keep your resume strictly to 2 pages.
- Include Documentation: Ensure your SF50 and educational transcripts are attached.
If you have the mechanical expertise and the desire to lead, apply for the Surface Maintenance Mechanic Leader position today. Help keep the Virginia Army National Guard mission-ready.
Why This Surface Maintenance Mechanic Leader (Title 32) (Permanent) Job Matters
Take your mechanical expertise to the next level: lead, mentor, and maintain the heavy-duty fleet of the Virginia Army National Guard.
Surface Maintenance Mechanic Leader (Title 32) (Permanent) Job Overview
The Virginia Army National Guard is seeking a skilled and experienced Surface Maintenance Mechanic Leader (Title 32) to join the VA MATES team at Fort Pickett. In this pivotal role, you will lead a dedicated team of technicians, overseeing the repair, maintenance, and diagnostics of an extensive array of combat, tactical, and heavy-duty vehicles. This is a permanent, excepted service position perfect for a hands-on leader who excels in both mechanical troubleshooting and team management.
Requirements for Surface Maintenance Mechanic Leader (Title 32) (Permanent)
- Must be a current member (E5/SGT - E8/MSG) in the Virginia Army National Guard Military Technician Program.
- Must possess at least 24 months of specialized experience equivalent to the WL-09 level.
- Proven ability to plan, organize, and lead work teams in a technical repair environment.
- Strong proficiency in reading and interpreting technical manuals, blueprints, and diagnostic publications.
- Experience in testing, evaluating, and diagnosing mechanical failures in heavy-duty mobile equipment.
- Valid resume detailing specific work hours, dates, and job duties.
- Submission of the most recent SF50 form.
Preferred Qualifications for Surface Maintenance Mechanic Leader (Title 32) (Permanent)
- Advanced certification in diesel or heavy-duty automotive repair.
- Previous experience serving in a Command Maintenance Management (COMET) or Maintenance Assistance Instruction Team (MAIT) role.
- Proficiency in utilizing state-of-the-art embedded diagnostic systems for military vehicles.
- Proven track record of mentoring lower-graded mechanics in complex hydraulic and electrical systems.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive hourly federal pay rates
- ✓Comprehensive federal benefits package
- ✓Direct service to the National Guard mission
- ✓Professional growth and leadership training
- ✓Access to state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment
💡 How to Apply Surface Maintenance Mechanic Leader (Title 32) (Permanent) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Surface Maintenance Mechanic Leader (Title 32) (Permanent) Job
- Log in or create an account on the USAJOBS portal.
- Prepare a resume that clearly lists job titles, dates (MM/DD/YY), and hours worked per week.
- Complete the online Occupational Questionnaire via the link provided in the announcement.
- Upload required documentation, including your most recent SF50.
- Submit your application package before the closing date of September 4, 2026.
- Monitor your status via the USAJOBS 'My Applications' dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Use the USAJOBS Resume Builder to ensure all federal requirements are captured correctly.
- Limit your resume to the required 2-page length limit.
- Be specific with dates; generic 'year' entries without months/days may lead to disqualification.
- Triple-check that your SF50 is included in your package before clicking submit.
- Apply early to allow time for the document virus scan process.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Title 32 Excepted Service position?
These positions are specific to the National Guard and require the employee to be a member of the National Guard to hold the job.
Can I apply if I am not currently in the Virginia Army National Guard?
No, this specific announcement is restricted to currently employed permanent members of the Virginia Army National Guard Military Technician Program (E5-E8).
Job from Army National Guard Units
The National Guard is the oldest component of the U.S. Armed Forces, with a rich tradition of supporting our nation, states, and local communities. Joining the Army National Guard means becoming part of a professional team committed to collective defense and emergency response.