Become a Skilled Painter with the New Jersey National Guard in Lakehurst

In military operations, the preservation of tactical assets is just as critical as their mechanical readiness. Extreme weather, chemical hazards, and rugged training conditions constantly threaten the structural integrity of military hardware. To combat this, the Department of the Army relies on highly skilled trade professionals to execute precise corrosion-prevention operations.

If you are an experienced painter with a strong eye for detail, the New Jersey National Guard has a premier career opportunity for you. The agency is currently hiring for a Painter (WG-4102-9) based in Lakehurst, New Jersey. This role is a Title 32 Excepted Service position, which offers a unique blend of civilian stability and military service. Operating within the CSMS-1 unit, you will play a crucial role in safeguarding tactical vehicles and heavy machinery from wear and tear, ensuring that local units remain fully equipped to handle both domestic emergencies and overseas missions.

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About the Agency: CSMS-1 & the New Jersey National Guard

The Combined Support Maintenance Shop (CSMS-1) is the core maintenance hub of the New Jersey Army National Guard. Located in Lakehurst, NJ, this state-of-the-art facility is dedicated to the overhaul, repair, and preservation of combat systems, communication setups, and tactical transport vehicles.

The New Jersey National Guard serves a dual role. Under state control, the Guard responds to local disasters, civil support missions, and humanitarian emergencies. Under federal orders, it deploys to protect national defense interests across the globe. By joining CSMS-1, you become part of a vital community of technicians, mechanics, and logistics experts who keep the military's physical inventory in top-tier condition.

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Job Responsibilities

As a WG-09 Painter, your day-to-day duties extend far beyond standard residential or commercial painting. You will operate within an industrial, military-grade finishing shop, applying specialized materials to high-value military assets. Your core responsibilities will include:

• Comprehensive Surface Preparation: You will prep wood, metal, glass, and composite surfaces by removing old paint, rust, dirt, scale, and corrosion using methods like manual scraping, wire brushing, power sanding, and chemical etching.
• Coating Formulation and Mixing: You will mix, tint, tone, and blend paint materials. This requires exact measurements of specialized additives, including hardeners, retardants, catalysts, and thinners, to ensure proper paint viscosity and adhesion across varying climates.
• Industrial Spraying and Coating: You will apply protective coatings using advanced professional methods, including conventional, airless, and electrostatic spray systems, alongside traditional brushing and rolling for intricate trim work.
• Paint Booth Management: You will monitor and calibrate complex spray booth environmental systems. This includes controlling differential air pressures and tuning drying temperatures within curing chambers to achieve ideal finish results.
• Applying Defensive CARC Finishes: You will work directly with Chemical Agent Resistant Coatings (CARC). These protective coatings resist chemical weapons and decontamination washes, requiring strict adherence to federal specifications and safety protocols.

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Requirements & Qualifications

Because this is a Title 32 Dual-Status Military Technician position, applicants must satisfy distinct civilian and military requirements. Failing to meet even one of these parameters will result in disqualification.

Dual-Status Military Requirements

• National Guard Membership: You must hold or be eligible to obtain active enlisted membership in the New Jersey National Guard.
• Compatible Military Assignment: You must be assigned to a military unit that is compatible with this technician position, as determined by the Human Resources Office.
• Military Grade Limits: The position is open to enlisted personnel between the grades of E-3 and E-7. If your current rank is above E-7, you must include a statement on your resume confirming your willingness to take a voluntary reduction in rank before taking the job.

General Experience vs. Specialized Experience

To qualify for the WG-09 grade level, applicants must demonstrate a blend of general trade knowledge and detailed specialized experience. Below is a comparison table outlining what you must show on your application:

Experience Level	Key Qualifications & Requirements
General Experience	• Fundamental knowledge of preparing surfaces (removing rust, scale, and old coatings). • Familiarity with basic brush, roll, and spray application methods. • Ability to work with standard paints, varnishes, shellacs, and primers. • Basic competence reading and following instruction labels.
Specialized Experience (12+ Months)	• Over 1 year of professional experience preparing surfaces with wire brushes, sanders, and chemical treatments. • Expert use of putties, spackling, and surface fillers to repair defects. • Advanced experience mixing catalysts, retardants, and chemical hardeners. • Skill in precision techniques like cutting-in and dip/overflow applications. • Proven history of interpreting military specifications, publications, and technical blueprints.

Additional Employment Criteria

• Direct Deposit: You must enroll in direct deposit for federal payroll purposes.
• Background Checks: You must pass a federal background check to confirm your suitability for government service.
• Drug Testing: You must pass a pre-employment drug screening.
• Selective Service: All male applicants born after December 31, 1959, must provide proof of registration.

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Salary and Benefits

This position offers a highly competitive pay rate under the Federal Wage System (FWS) guidelines for the Lakehurst, NJ area:

• Hourly Salary: $33.25 to $38.85 per hour (based on experience and steps).
• Schedule: Full-time.

Benefits Package

As a federal employee, you will enjoy a comprehensive suite of benefits designed to support your health, family, and retirement goals:

1. Health Insurance: Access to the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) program, featuring comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage.
2. Retirement: Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS), which features a defined benefit pension alongside a Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with agency-matching contributions.
3. Leave Programs: Earned annual and sick leave, plus 11 paid federal holidays each year.
4. Telework: Though this is primarily a hands-on trade position, occasional telework options may be approved by supervisors and the Director.
5. Union Rights: Dual-status technicians are eligible for representation under the Federal Labor Relations Authority (FLRA) agreements.

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Application Tips to Succeed

Applying for a federal job requires a strategic approach. Use these proven tips to make your application stand out:

• Avoid Plagiarism (Crucial): Never copy and paste parts of the job description or qualifications directly into your resume. The automated review systems will flag this as plagiarism, leading to immediate disqualification. Rewrite your tasks in your own words.
• Keep Your Resume Compact: Your federal resume must not exceed two pages. Prioritize your most relevant industrial painting and military experience.
• Show Your Metrics: Use specific figures when describing your accomplishments. For example: "Prepped and coated over 50 tactical vehicles using airless spray systems over a 12-month period while maintaining a 100% safety record."
• Highlight Your Guard Status: Clearly state your current military unit, rank, and military occupational specialty (MOS). If your current rank exceeds E-7, make sure to write a clear, visible statement indicating your willingness to take a voluntary reduction in rank.
• Verify Your Uploads: Ensure your most recent SF-50 (if applicable), proof of military credentials, and Veterans' Preference papers (DD-214 or SF-15) are successfully attached before hitting submit.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can civilians without military experience apply for this job?

No. This is a Title 32 Excepted Service Dual-Status Technician position. It requires you to be an active, enlisted member of the New Jersey National Guard. If you are not in the Guard, you must be willing to join and enlist before starting employment.

What happens if my resume exceeds the two-page limit?

Federal HR reviewers will not review any material beyond the first two pages of your resume. This means critical details about your qualifications could be missed, leading to a lower rating or disqualification. Keep your formatting clean and concise.

Is there a probationary period for this role?

Yes. New hires may be required to complete a 1-to-2-year trial or probationary period. This allows the agency to evaluate your work performance, attendance, and technical abilities before certifying your permanent appointment.

Are military bonuses affected by taking this job?

They can be. If you are currently receiving a military enlistment bonus or are enrolled in the Student Loan Repayment Program, you should contact your incentive manager to determine how accepting a full-time technician position might affect your eligibility.

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The Painter (WG-4102-9) position with the New Jersey National Guard in Lakehurst is more than just a painting job; it is a vital support role that keeps our defense forces ready to respond. With an attractive salary range of $33.25 to $38.85 per hour and an outstanding federal benefits package, this role offers incredible stability and room for professional growth.

If you have the industrial painting experience and are ready to apply your skills in service of your state and country, do not delay. Prepare your resume, double-check your documents, and submit your application before the closing date on September 21, 2026.