Become a Surface Maintenance Mechanic with the Washington Army National Guard

Are you a skilled mechanic looking to transition your talents into a mission-driven career? The Washington Army National Guard is currently seeking a dedicated Surface Maintenance Mechanic to join the Combined Support Maintenance Shop (CSMS) at Camp Murray. This role is vital to the operational readiness of our state’s tactical and combat fleet.

Job Responsibilities

As a Surface Maintenance Mechanic, your day-to-day work involves more than just oil changes. You will be responsible for:

Performing complex diagnostics on internal combustion and turbine engines.
Repairing hydraulic and pneumatic control systems.
Troubleshooting electrical and electronic sensors, diodes, and circuit boards.
Conducting preventive maintenance (PMCS) to avoid equipment failure.
Collaborating with team members on major overhauls and minor repairs.

Requirements

To be eligible for this position, applicants must meet specific criteria:

Military Membership: You must be a member of the Washington Army National Guard or eligible for immediate enlistment.
Technical Proficiency: Experience with common hand and power tools.
Driver's License: A valid Washington state and military driver's license.
Clearance: Ability to pass a background check and obtain a Secret security clearance.

Comparison of Qualifications

Experience Level	Key Requirement	Responsibilities
WG-08	12 months experience	Routine repairs & parts replacement
WG-10	18 months experience	Complex diagnostics & systems overhaul

Salary Overview

This position offers a competitive hourly wage ranging from $33.36 to $41.99. Compensation is commensurate with your level of experience and technical certification level.

Benefits

Working for the National Guard as a technician provides unique benefits, including:

Hands-on technical experience with advanced military equipment.
Job stability in a federal excepted service role.
A structured environment that encourages professional growth and military rank advancement.

Application Tips

Customize Your Resume: Ensure your experience is described in your own words.
Check Your Formatting: Keep your resume under two pages and exclude personal photos or SSNs.
Don't Forget the Form: Ensure your Mil Form 174 is included.

Serving as a Surface Maintenance Mechanic is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the readiness and safety of your community. If you possess the mechanical aptitude and the drive to support the Washington Army National Guard, we invite you to apply today.

Why This Surface Maintenance Mechanic Job Matters

Power the mission of the Washington Army National Guard by keeping our tactical fleets mission-ready as a Surface Maintenance Mechanic.

Surface Maintenance Mechanic Job Overview

The Washington Army National Guard is seeking a skilled Surface Maintenance Mechanic to join the Combined Support Maintenance Shop (CSMS) at Camp Murray. This is a critical Title 32 Excepted Service position that serves as a lynchpin for maintaining our heavy-duty tactical, combat, and commercial vehicle fleet. You will perform essential diagnostics, preventative maintenance, and repairs, ensuring our equipment is always ready for service. This role is perfect for a mechanically minded professional who values military service and seeks a stable, hands-on career in equipment maintenance.

Requirements for Surface Maintenance Mechanic

Must be or be willing to become a member of the Washington Army National Guard.
Must hold a valid Washington state driver's license.
Ability to obtain and maintain a Government Travel Card (GTC).
Must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
Ability to work in a cooperative, professional, and diverse environment.
Must be registered for Selective Service (for males born after 12/31/1959).
Completion of the Army Avoidance Course (AAC) training.
Must wear the official military uniform while on duty.

Preferred Qualifications for Surface Maintenance Mechanic

12 to 18 months of demonstrated experience in mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic repair.
Experience diagnosing and repairing diesel, multi-fuel, or turbine engines.
Proficiency in reading technical manuals, schematics, and engineering diagrams.
Experience using common power tools and sophisticated measurement/test equipment.
Prior military mechanical maintenance training (MOS-specific experience is a plus).

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Excepted service employment stability.
✓Opportunity to serve in a mission-critical role within the Army National Guard.
✓Access to ongoing technical training and professional development.
✓Uniformed service-compatible career path.
✓Comprehensive federal benefits eligibility.

💡 How to Apply Surface Maintenance Mechanic Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Surface Maintenance Mechanic Job

Log into your USAJOBS account.
Prepare a resume that is two pages or less and does not contain personal identifiers like SSNs or photos.
Complete the mandatory Mil Form 174.
Ensure your military history (if applicable) is documented correctly according to the provided format.
Attach all required documents, including transcripts and DD-214 (if applicable).
Submit your complete application package via the USAJOBS portal before the closing date.

💡 General Tips

Write your resume in your own words; verbatim descriptions from this announcement will be disqualified.
Focus your resume on specific years and months of relevant mechanical experience.
Verify that your application status is updated through the 'Application Status' link in your USAJOBS dashboard.
Double-check your application for missing documents like the Mil Form 174, as incomplete packages are rejected immediately.
Contact the HR office if you have questions about document uploading.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is military membership required for this position?

Yes, this is an excepted service position, and you must be a member of the Washington Army National Guard or eligible for immediate membership.

What is the pay range for this role?

The pay rate for this position is between $33.36 and $41.99 per hour, depending on experience and qualifications.

Can I submit a resume longer than two pages?

No, your resume must not exceed two pages; applications exceeding this limit will not be considered.

Job from Army National Guard Units

The Washington Army National Guard serves as a backbone for state and national defense. Our technicians are the unsung heroes who ensure that when a mission calls—whether in response to a natural disaster or national security requirement—our vehicles and equipment are ready to perform.