Become a Composite/Plastic Fabricator at Hill Air Force Base
Are you a skilled technician looking to take your expertise to the next level? The 419 Maintenance Squadron at Hill Air Force Base in Utah is offering a high-stakes, rewarding opportunity for a Composite/Plastic Fabricator. This role is not just a standard maintenance job; it is an Air Reserve Technician (ART) position, blending the stability of federal civil service with the pride of serving in the Air Force Reserve. If you are passionate about precision, aeronautics, and maintaining the world’s most advanced aircraft, this is your chance to make a tangible impact on global airpower.
Job Responsibilities
As a Composite/Plastic Fabricator, your primary duties involve the intricate care of high-performance aircraft. You will be responsible for:
- Troubleshooting, inspecting, and repairing advanced composite components.
- Applying specialized low-observable (stealth) coatings to exacting tolerances.
- Interpreting complex engineering drawings and manufacturing specifications.
- Operating a variety of hand and power tools safely.
- Adhering to strict EPA and environmental safety protocols.
- Providing technical training to other reservists.
Requirements
Success in this role requires a high level of technical competency and attention to detail. Candidates must be able to perform structural work with minimal supervision. Because this is a high-security environment, candidates must:
- Possess the ability to obtain a Secret security clearance.
- Pass an initial drug screening.
- Undergo a rigorous physical examination to ensure the ability to use specialized respiratory gear.
- Demonstrate proficiency in layout, pattern development, and shop mathematics.
Salary Overview
The compensation for this role reflects the high level of skill required to maintain sensitive military assets.
| Pay Metric | Details |
|---|---|
| Position Grade | WG-10 |
| Salary Range | $63,361 - $74,589 per year |
| Pay Interval | Annual |
Benefits
Federal employees enjoy a robust suite of benefits designed to support long-term wellness and financial security, including:
- Comprehensive Health Insurance.
- Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) participation.
- Paid federal holidays and generous annual leave accrual.
- Access to military training and development programs.
Application Tips
To stand out, ensure your resume is perfectly tailored to the position. Remember that recruiters operate under a strict two-page limit; prioritize your most relevant experience. Always include your hours worked per week and precise dates of employment to avoid automatic disqualification. If you are a veteran or current federal employee, ensure your DD214 or SF-50 forms are attached and legible.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Do I need to be in the military to apply? A: Yes, this is an ART position, which requires you to be an active member of the Air Force Reserve. Q: What is the work environment like? A: You will work in both indoor and outdoor shop environments. Some tasks involve physical exertion, such as climbing scaffolds, lifting up to 50 lbs, and working in cramped spaces.
Working as a Composite/Plastic Fabricator at Hill AFB offers a unique career trajectory for those who value national service and technical precision. If you are ready to apply your skills to the maintenance of 5th Generation aircraft, submit your application package before the September 15, 2026, deadline.
Why This Composite/Plastic Fabricator Job Matters
Elevate your career with the Air Force Reserve: Expertly maintain cutting-edge 5th Generation aircraft as a Composite/Plastic Fabricator at Hill AFB.
Composite/Plastic Fabricator Job Overview
The 419 Maintenance Squadron at Hill AFB is seeking a skilled Composite/Plastic Fabricator to join our team as an Air Reserve Technician (ART). In this critical role, you will perform specialized maintenance, repairs, and structural fabrication on advanced aircraft components and low-observable systems. As an ART, you serve as a vital member of the civil service team while maintaining your active membership in the Air Force Reserve, combining hands-on technical expertise with a commitment to national defense.
Requirements for Composite/Plastic Fabricator
- Ability to perform work as a Composite/Plastic Fabricator with little to no supervision.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
- Willingness to undergo a pre-employment drug test.
- Ability to pass a physical examination for respiratory protection equipment usage.
- Possession of a valid driver's license for on-base vehicle and equipment operation.
- Current membership (or eligibility for membership) in the Air Force Reserve.
- Capacity to work varying shifts and overtime as necessitated by mission demands.
Preferred Qualifications for Composite/Plastic Fabricator
- Proven expertise in sheet metal and composite structural repair.
- Proficiency in interpreting complex engineering blueprints, schematics, and technical specifications.
- Experience with specialized coatings and low-observable technology maintenance.
- Strong understanding of EPA and environmental compliance regulations.
- Demonstrated ability to perform precise manual work under exacting tolerances.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal civilian employee benefits package
- ✓Retirement savings plans (FERS)
- ✓Comprehensive health and life insurance options
- ✓Paid federal holidays and leave accrual
- ✓15 days of annual military leave for training
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and technical training
💡 How to Apply Composite/Plastic Fabricator Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Composite/Plastic Fabricator Job
- Log into or create your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly limited to two pages.
- Ensure your resume explicitly details hours worked per week and specific dates of employment.
- Complete the online application questionnaire.
- Upload all required documentation, including SF-50s for current/former federal employees and military service records.
- Submit your application before the closing date of September 15, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Double-check that your resume does not exceed the two-page limit, as longer resumes will be automatically rejected.
- Clearly link your past experience to the job requirements in your resume.
- Ensure all uploaded documents contain your full legal name.
- Monitor your USAJOBS account regularly to track the status of your application.
- Check for confirmation emails after submission to ensure your package was received successfully.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an Air Reserve Technician (ART)?
An ART is a civilian federal employee who is also a member of the Air Force Reserve. These individuals maintain the aircraft during the week and participate in military training assemblies once a month.
Is a security clearance required?
Yes, this position requires a Secret security clearance and may require access to special programs like the F-22, B-2, or F-35.
Can I apply if I am currently on active duty?
Yes, active duty members may apply under the VOW Act if they provide a certification memo indicating their expected discharge date and character of service.
Job from Headquarters, Air Force Reserve Command
The Department of the Air Force is tasked with the mission to fly, fight, and win. The 419 Maintenance Squadron plays a vital role in this vision, providing the technical muscle to keep 5th Generation aircraft combat-ready. Employees here work under the core values of integrity, service, and excellence, ensuring that our nation's fleet remains unmatched in speed, reach, and vigilance.