Become a Toolmaker Inspector at Red River Army Depot
Are you a skilled machinist with a passion for precision and quality control? The Department of the Army is currently recruiting for a Toolmaker Inspector position at the prestigious Red River Army Depot in Texarkana, Texas. This role is central to the Army’s ability to maintain a fleet of tactical wheeled vehicles, ensuring our service members have the equipment they need when it matters most.
Job Responsibilities
As a Toolmaker Inspector, you will serve as the technical expert for fabrication and inspection. Your core duties include:
- Inspecting welds and fabricated assemblies for correct material application.
- Setting up production machines to guarantee that finished parts meet precise specifications.
- Utilizing advanced measurement systems to verify dimensions.
- Providing expert guidance on technical drawings and machine setups to fellow staff.
- Reporting and addressing material damage or customer concerns.
Requirements
To be successful in this role, you must demonstrate:
- The ability to work independently with standard machine shop tools.
- Proficiency in reading and interpreting blueprints and shop drawings.
- A comprehensive understanding of metal properties and industrial manufacturing practices.
- Physical ability to perform tasks such as lifting up to 40 lbs, walking, and standing throughout the shift.
- Adherence to safety regulations regarding personal protective equipment (PPE).
Skills Comparison Table
| Skill Category | Expected Proficiency | Importance |
|---|---|---|
| Machine Shop Tools | Advanced | High |
| Blueprint Reading | Intermediate/Advanced | High |
| Quality Inspection | Precision Focused | High |
| Metal Fabrication | Theoretical & Practical | Moderate |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive compensation package, with an hourly rate ranging from $30.67 to $35.79. The final salary is determined by locality pay and the specific qualifications of the successful candidate. Additionally, this position may be eligible for recruitment or relocation incentives.
Benefits
Federal employees enjoy a robust benefits package, which generally includes:
- Health, dental, and vision insurance options.
- Retirement plans (FERS) with government matching.
- Paid time off, including federal holidays, vacation, and sick leave.
- Opportunities for continued training and career advancement within the Department of Defense.
Application Tips
- Resume Precision: Your resume must be two pages or less. Use the space to emphasize your technical proficiency and past successes in a shop environment.
- Clarity Matters: Use plain language. Do not rely on acronyms that outsiders might not understand.
- Verify Status: Always check your USAJOBS dashboard after submitting to ensure your application status reflects a successful submission.
If you are ready to contribute to the Army's mission while utilizing your expert technical skills, this Toolmaker Inspector role at Red River Army Depot is an exceptional opportunity. Apply before September 14, 2026, to be considered.
Why This Toolmaker Inspector Job Matters
Join the Red River Army Depot team in Texarkana, Texas, and play a critical role in maintaining the strength of our nation's tactical fleet as a Toolmaker Inspector.
Toolmaker Inspector Job Overview
The Department of the Army is seeking a skilled Toolmaker Inspector to join the Control Division Electronic Inspection Branch at the Red River Army Depot in Texarkana, Texas. This position is vital to the maintenance, repair, and overhaul mission of our tactical wheeled vehicles. You will perform precision inspections on fabricated items, oversee machine setups, and ensure that all components meet rigorous quality standards.
Requirements for Toolmaker Inspector
- Must be able to perform work without more than normal supervision.
- Ability to fabricate, modify, and repair molds, tools, dies, and instrument parts.
- Must be able to read and interpret complex shop drawings.
- Proficiency in metal properties, measurement, and layout techniques.
- Must be able to lift up to 40 lbs occasionally.
- Willingness to work in a shop environment with exposure to dust, oil, and heat.
- Current permanent Army employee status (for specific appointment authorities).
- Must adhere to safety protocols, including wearing safety gear.
Preferred Qualifications for Toolmaker Inspector
- Proven experience in machine shop inspection environments.
- Demonstrated ability to use automated measuring machine systems.
- Experience in technical welding inspection and fabrication quality control.
- Strong technical communication skills for advising personnel on setup and specs.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive hourly pay
- ✓Comprehensive federal benefits package
- ✓Opportunities for professional development
- ✓Stable work environment with the Department of the Army
- ✓Recruitment or relocation incentives may be available
💡 How to Apply Toolmaker Inspector Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Toolmaker Inspector Job
- Log into your USAJOBS account.
- Complete the mandatory online questionnaire.
- Prepare a resume of two pages or less that highlights your technical experience.
- Gather proof of eligibility documents (veteran status, federal employment, etc.).
- Upload all required documentation via the application portal.
- Submit your application package before the 11:59 PM EST closing date on September 14, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume strictly to two pages or less; longer resumes will be automatically excluded.
- Use plain, clear language to describe your accomplishments and avoid internal acronyms.
- Ensure your resume explicitly details the number of hours worked per week for each listed role.
- Double-check that all supporting documents—such as performance appraisals or eligibility proofs—are clearly uploaded.
- Monitor your status through the USAJOBS dashboard to ensure your documents have cleared the virus scan.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary mission of the Red River Army Depot?
The depot focuses on the repair, rebuild, overhaul, and conversion of tactical wheeled vehicles, providing essential support to the military.
Is a security clearance required for this role?
No, this position is designated as non-sensitive/low risk and does not require a formal security clearance.
Can I apply if I am not currently a federal employee?
This specific announcement is for internal agency candidates and those meeting specific employment authority categories. Please review the 'Who May Apply' criteria in the full announcement.
What is the work environment like?
It is a well-lit, heated, and ventilated shop environment, though you will be exposed to typical machine shop elements such as noise, metal chips, and lubricants.
Is there a probationary period?
Yes, all new appointees are subject to a one-year probationary period to evaluate performance and fitness.
Job from Army Tank-Automotive And Armament Command (Tacom)
The Red River Army Depot (RRAD) is a cornerstone of American military readiness. Located in Northeast Texas, near the borders of Arkansas, Louisiana, and Oklahoma, the depot provides critical maintenance, rebuild, and overhaul services. Working here means joining a dedicated team of civilians and military personnel committed to a total force mission that keeps the Department of Defense operational.