Surface Maintenance Mechanic Careers in Mead, Nebraska: Join the Nebraska Army National Guard

Are you a skilled automotive or heavy equipment technician looking for a meaningful career that combines mechanical expertise with military service? The Nebraska Army National Guard is currently seeking a Surface Maintenance Mechanic (WG-5801-08/10) in Mead, Nebraska.

This position offers a unique chance to work on high-powered military systems, combat vehicles, and heavy-duty machinery. Positioned within the Title 32 Excepted Service program, this role allows you to earn federal hourly wages ranging from $28.00 to $36.52 per hour while actively serving as a member of the National Guard.

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About the Agency: Nebraska Army National Guard

The National Guard is the oldest component of the United States Armed Forces, tracing its heritage back to early colonial defense units. Modern Guardsmen fulfill a dual role: responding to state emergencies under the direction of the Governor and supporting national defense missions overseas under federal direction.

The Surface Maintenance Managers Office oversees repair and maintenance hubs across Nebraska, ensuring tactical equipment and combat vehicles remain operational and combat-ready. Employees in these facilities perform essential maintenance that keeps units safe, trained, and prepared for quick mobilization.

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Core Job Responsibilities

As a Surface Maintenance Mechanic, you will handle complex diagnostic, maintenance, overhaul, and repair tasks on diverse military fleets. Duties vary depending on assigned grade (WG-08 or WG-10) and facility needs:

• Vehicle & System Maintenance: Inspect, troubleshoot, overhaul, and repair tracked combat vehicles, semi-trailers, bulldozers, mobile cranes, self-propelled artillery, and all-terrain utility vehicles.
• Major Engine & System Overhauls: Disassemble, recondition, and rebuild multi-fuel engines, diesel engines, turbine assemblies, automatic transmissions, drive lines, and intricate fuel injection systems.
• Advanced Diagnostics: Diagnose mechanical and electronic failures using precision diagnostic equipment, digital multi-meters, pressure gauges, compression testers, and embedded vehicle computers.
• Field Contact & Recovery Operations: Deploy as part of field contact teams to perform mobile maintenance at remote training sites, recovering and evacuating disabled vehicles when required.
• Readiness Inspections: Conduct operational evaluations on unit equipment prior to Inactive Duty Training (IDT) and Annual Training (AT) periods. Serve on Command Maintenance Management evaluations (COMET) as requested.

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Specialized Qualifications and Skill Requirements

Applicants must demonstrate general mechanical aptitude alongside specific level-based technical experience:

1. General Experience: Hands-on work or training showing familiarity with basic tools, preventive maintenance procedures, and routine mechanical maintenance.
2. WG-08 Specialized Experience (Minimum 12 Months): Proficiency utilizing power tools, precision measuring devices, and manual tools to remove, replace, fit, and adjust mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic components.
3. WG-10 Specialized Experience (Minimum 18 Months): Deep knowledge of complex integrated vehicle systems. Demonstrated ability to independently diagnose, repair, and overhaul heavy combat or tactical equipment, including complex fuel injection, electronic control, and pneumatic systems.

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Grade Level Comparison: WG-08 vs. WG-10

The table below outlines key differences between the two target pay grades for this announcement:

Feature / Qualification	Wage Grade 08 (WG-08)	Wage Grade 10 (WG-10)
Required Experience	12 months of specialized experience	18 months of specialized experience
Work Complexity	Routine repairs, replacing assemblies, basic electrical/hydraulic work	Complex overhauls, engine rebuilding, multi-system diagnostics
System Knowledge	Basic understanding of vehicle sub-systems	In-depth understanding of interconnected hydraulic, pneumatic, & electronic systems
Supervision Level	Receives guidance on complex overhauls	Performs major overhauls independently; assists or mentors lower-grade techs
Diagnostic Tools	Uses standard hand tools, gauges, and basic testers	Operates advanced computer diagnostics, engine analyzers, & calibrators

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Salary Overview and Compensation Structure

This position operates under the Federal Wage System (FWS) for trades and labor occupations:

• Pay Range: $28.00 per hour to $36.52 per hour.
• Starting Grade: Offered as a WG-08 or WG-10 depending on verified experience and qualifications.
• Work Schedule: Full-time hours within the dual-status technician structure.

In addition to civilian hourly pay, technicians receive drill pay and military allowances associated with their Guard service requirements.

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Benefits Package

Federal National Guard technicians receive robust compensation and comprehensive benefit options, including:

• Retirement Planning: Coverage under the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) and access to the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching contributions.
• Healthcare Coverage: Choice of low-cost health plans under the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) program, plus vision and dental options.
• Paid Time Off: Earned annual leave, sick leave, and paid time off for all statutory federal holidays.
• Life Insurance: Access to low-cost group life insurance via Federal Employees' Group Life Insurance (FEGLI).
• Military Training & Career Advancement: Opportunities to attend advanced military technical schools and leadership courses.

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Step-by-Step Application Guide and Tips

Follow these guidelines to submit a complete application package:

Application Steps

1. Go to USAJobs and search for Position ID NE-13054764-AR-26-112.
2. Ensure your military status or enlistment eligibility with the Nebraska Army National Guard is active.
3. Click Apply to open the USA Staffing application tool.
4. Complete the online Occupational Questionnaire.
5. Attach your tailored federal resume along with mandatory supporting documents.
6. Confirm receipt and monitor status updates on your USAJobs dashboard.

Application Tips

• Detail Work History: Clearly state start and end dates (MM/YYYY) along with average weekly hours worked for every job entry.
• Highlight Relevant Systems: Explicitly describe the specific machinery, vehicles (e.g., tanks, heavy trucks, diesel engines), and diagnostic equipment you have operated or repaired.
• Match Qualifications: Ensure all responses selected in the online questionnaire are fully supported by plain language statements in your uploaded resume.
• Observe Key Dates: Apply by September 16, 2026 for first-round consideration. Final closing is November 16, 2026.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What is a Title 32 Excepted Service position?
A: It is a federal civilian position reserved for active members of the National Guard. Technicians maintain dual status as civilian employees and military service members, wearing the uniform during daily duties.

Q: What military rank is required for this position?
A: Applicants must be eligible for or hold an enlisted rank between E-1 and E-7 in the Nebraska Army National Guard.

Q: Is a security clearance required?
A: Yes, candidates must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret Security Clearance as well as pass mandatory background suitability checks.

Q: Is relocation assistance provided?
A: No. Relocation expenses or incentives are not authorized for this recruitment.

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If you possess strong mechanical aptitude and wish to serve your community in Mead, Nebraska, applying for the Surface Maintenance Mechanic opening is an excellent career step. Review your qualifications, update your federal resume, and submit your application prior to the initial September 16, 2026 review date.