Become a Surface Maintenance Mechanic with the Kentucky National Guard
Are you a dedicated mechanic looking to apply your skills to high-stakes equipment? The Kentucky Army National Guard is currently accepting applications for a Surface Maintenance Mechanic (WG-5801-10). This position provides a unique opportunity to serve your community while maintaining the tactical and combat fleet that keeps our nation secure.
Job Responsibilities
As a Surface Maintenance Mechanic, you will be the backbone of fleet readiness. Your daily tasks include:
- Troubleshooting: Diagnosing mechanical and electrical failures in heavy-duty mobile equipment.
- Major Repairs: Disassembling and rebuilding engines, sub-assemblies, and major vehicle systems.
- Maintenance: Performing complex preventative maintenance and operational inspections.
- Evaluation: Testing vehicles after repairs to ensure they meet strict military readiness standards.
Requirements
Applicants must demonstrate deep technical proficiency. To qualify, you need:
- Experience: A minimum of 18 months of specialized experience in diagnosing and repairing complex systems.
- Military Status: You must be an active member of the Kentucky National Guard.
- Documentation: A resume detailing specific dates, work hours, and duties performed.
Comparison of Qualifications
| Qualification Type | Requirement Detail |
|---|---|
| Basic Experience | Routine maintenance and tool usage |
| Specialized Experience | 18+ months in complex repair & diagnostics |
| Clearance | T3 or equivalent investigation |
| Rank Requirement | SGT - SFC (with waiver if necessary) |
Salary Overview
The position offers a competitive hourly wage ranging from $29.09 to $33.97 per hour. This compensation reflects the high degree of responsibility and the technical expertise required to manage military-grade tactical equipment.
Application Tips
To ensure your application reaches the hiring manager, avoid these common pitfalls:
- Detailed Resumes: Never use just a year; always include the month and year of employment.
- Originality: Write your experience in your own words. Do not copy the job posting text.
- Naming: Ensure your name appears on every document uploaded to the system.
If you have the drive to maintain the heavy-duty fleet of the Kentucky National Guard, this role offers the perfect blend of technical challenge and service. Submit your application before the closing date to start your career with the Kentucky FMS 6.
Why This Surface Maintenance Mechanic - Title 32 Job Matters
Power the National Guard's heavy-duty fleet—advance your mechanical career in Jackson, Kentucky.
Surface Maintenance Mechanic - Title 32 Job Overview
The Kentucky Army National Guard is seeking a skilled Surface Maintenance Mechanic to perform critical diagnostic, repair, and overhaul work on combat and tactical vehicles. This is a Title 32 Excepted Service position located in Jackson, KY, offering a stable environment for experienced mechanical professionals to support national and state defense missions.
Requirements for Surface Maintenance Mechanic - Title 32
- Must maintain membership in the Kentucky National Guard.
- Must be assigned to a compatible military position.
- Military rank requirement: SGT - SFC (willingness to accept reduction in rank if necessary).
- Must obtain and maintain a favorable T3 (Secret) security investigation.
- Must meet the requirements of the Lautenberg Amendment (Domestic Violence Misdemeanor).
- Registration with Selective Service (if born after 12/31/1959).
- Ability to wear the military uniform and participate in direct deposit.
Preferred Qualifications for Surface Maintenance Mechanic - Title 32
- Over 18 months of specialized experience in diagnosing, repairing, and overhauling complex automotive systems.
- Demonstrated ability to use advanced diagnostic equipment.
- Proven track record in applying independent judgment to complex mechanical issues.
- Experience conducting, testing, and evaluating maintenance inspections on military-grade equipment.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive hourly federal compensation
- ✓Stable federal employment within the Department of the Army
- ✓Professional development through military mechanical certification
- ✓Contribution to national defense and community emergency support
💡 How to Apply Surface Maintenance Mechanic - Title 32 Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Surface Maintenance Mechanic - Title 32 Job
- Review the full vacancy announcement on the official federal portal.
- Create or update your USAJOBS profile.
- Prepare a resume that explicitly lists dates (Month/Year), hours per week, and detailed duties.
- Submit your application package, ensuring your name is on every uploaded document.
- Confirm the submission status via your account dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Do not copy and paste the vacancy description into your resume.
- Be specific about your work schedule (e.g., 40 hrs/week) to avoid automatic disqualification.
- Ensure your military rank status and any necessary agreement for rank reduction are included in writing.
- Submit documents well in advance of the deadline to allow time for system virus scans.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a civilian or military position?
It is a Title 32 Excepted Service position, which requires you to be an active member of the Kentucky National Guard and maintain a compatible military position.
What happens if my resume does not show hours worked per week?
Failure to list specific dates and hours worked per week will lead to automatic disqualification of your application.
Can I apply if I am not currently in the National Guard?
No, this position requires active membership in the Kentucky National Guard.
What is the security clearance level?
You must be able to obtain and maintain a T3 (Secret) investigation.
Job from Army National Guard Units
The National Guard is a cornerstone of the United States Armed Forces. With a tradition dating back to our earliest colonial history, the Guard acts as the primary response force for state and national emergencies. By joining the Kentucky National Guard (KY FMS 6), you become part of a legacy of service that values integrity, technical excellence, and neighborly support.