Become an Aircraft Sheet Metal Mechanic with the Washington Air National Guard
Are you a skilled metalworker with a passion for aviation? The 141st Maintenance Squadron at Fairchild Air Force Base is looking for a dedicated Sheet Metal Mechanic to keep our aircraft mission-ready. This unique position allows you to serve your community and your country while utilizing your specialized technical skills in a high-stakes, professional environment.
Job Responsibilities
As an Aircraft Sheet Metal Mechanic (WG-10), you will perform critical structural repairs, including:
- Inspecting aircraft damage and determining repair methods.
- Fabricating patches, stringers, and bulkheads.
- Using advanced machinery to bend, cut, and form metal components.
- Applying protective coatings and corrosion control treatments.
- Collaborating with maintenance teams to meet strict safety and flight requirements.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Position | Sheet Metal Mechanic (Aircraft) |
| Salary | $29.85 - $34.81 / hour |
| Location | Fairchild AFB, WA |
| Security Clearance | Secret |
| Appointment Type | Indefinite, Excepted Service |
Requirements
To be eligible, candidates must meet specific criteria, including:
- Membership in the Washington Air National Guard.
- Ability to hold a Secret-level security clearance.
- Completion of the Mil Form 174.
- Demonstrated specialized experience in aircraft metal repair.
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive hourly wage, reflecting the high level of skill and precision required for military aircraft maintenance. The salary range for this grade is currently $29.85 to $34.81 per hour.
Benefits
Working with the Air National Guard offers more than just a paycheck. You gain access to a network of professionals, specialized training opportunities, and the pride of contributing to the national defense mission.
Application Tips
- Customize your resume: Ensure your experience is described in your own words, not the job posting language.
- Watch the length: Your resume must be two pages or less.
- Include your Military ID/Records: Ensure all necessary documentation is uploaded, specifically the Mil Form 174.
- Double-check the deadline: Ensure everything is submitted by 11:59 PM EST on the closing date.
If you are ready to take your sheet metal skills to the next level while serving your country, we encourage you to apply. Join the Washington Air National Guard today and make a meaningful impact on the safety and success of our fleet.
Why This Sheet Metal Mechanic (Aircraft) Job Matters
Join the elite maintenance team at the 141st Maintenance Squadron and keep our fleet mission-ready as an Aircraft Sheet Metal Mechanic.
Sheet Metal Mechanic (Aircraft) Job Overview
The Washington Air National Guard is seeking a skilled Sheet Metal Mechanic (Aircraft) to join the 141st Maintenance Squadron at Fairchild Air Force Base. This is a Title 32 Excepted Service role, meaning it serves as a critical link between civilian technical expertise and military readiness. You will be responsible for the structural integrity of aircraft, performing complex repairs, fabrications, and modifications to ensure our airframe structures, from fuselage to stabilizers, remain flight-safe and operational. This position requires active membership in the Washington Air National Guard and a commitment to maintaining a professional, collaborative work environment.
Requirements for Sheet Metal Mechanic (Aircraft)
- Must be or be willing to become a member of the Washington Air National Guard.
- Must possess or be able to obtain a Secret security clearance.
- Completion of a Mil Form 174 is mandatory.
- Ability to work with stainless steel, copper, magnesium, and honeycomb materials.
- Proficiency in advanced mathematical calculations and precision measuring tools.
- Must hold a High School Diploma or GED.
- Compliance with the Lautenberg Amendment regarding domestic violence convictions.
Preferred Qualifications for Sheet Metal Mechanic (Aircraft)
- Experience in complex aircraft structural layout, repair, and modification.
- Ability to interpret technical orders, blueprints, and engineering diagrams.
- Experience with metal-to-metal bonding and composite/fiberglass repair.
- Current military status or eligibility for enlistment in the WA Air National Guard.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal Civil Service career opportunities
- ✓Access to military facilities and support services
- ✓Contribution to national defense and local emergency response
- ✓Training and professional development in specialized aerospace fields
💡 How to Apply Sheet Metal Mechanic (Aircraft) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Sheet Metal Mechanic (Aircraft) Job
- Log in to your USAJOBS account or create a new profile.
- Prepare a resume that is exactly two pages or fewer, focusing on your specific technical experience.
- Complete the mandatory Mil Form 174.
- Upload all required documentation, including transcripts and military records (DD-214, etc.) as needed.
- Submit your application package through the online portal before the closing date.
- Monitor your status through the USAJOBS dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Avoid copying the job description text verbatim; use your own words to describe your past work history.
- Be specific with dates (Month/Year) and hours worked per week for each position.
- Ensure your Mil Form 174 is included; applications without it will be rejected.
- Submit your documents early to account for potential technical delays or virus scan processing time.
- Ensure your contact information is current and accurate in your USAJOBS profile.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is military membership required for this position?
Yes. This is an Excepted Service position that requires membership in the Washington Air National Guard. You must be willing to wear the military uniform and maintain a compatible military assignment.
What kind of appointment is this?
This is a temporary, indefinite appointment. While not permanent, incumbents may be converted to permanent status if funding and manning levels permit.
How long should my resume be?
Your resume must not exceed two pages. Resumes exceeding this limit will not be considered.
What if I am not currently in the Guard?
If you are not a member, you must be eligible for immediate enlistment to qualify for this position.
Are there drug tests?
Yes, drug testing is required for this sensitive position.
Job from Air National Guard Units
The Washington Air National Guard provides essential defense and emergency response capabilities. As a member of our team, you will be joining a tradition of service that dates back to the early American colonial days. We pride ourselves on operational excellence, integrity, and camaraderie.