Become a Quality Assurance Specialist with the Washington Army National Guard
Are you a detail-oriented professional with a passion for aviation safety and quality management? The Washington Army National Guard is currently seeking a motivated Quality Assurance Specialist to support the Army Aviation Support Facility (AASF) 1 at Joint Base Lewis-McChord. This position is a critical component of our readiness mission, ensuring that our aircraft and maintenance practices meet the highest standards of the Department of Defense.
Job Responsibilities
As a Quality Assurance Specialist (GS-1910-9), you will be the cornerstone of our maintenance safety and compliance program. Your primary duties will include:
- Program Management: Developing and maintaining the AASF Quality Management Plan (QMP).
- Technical Oversight: Serving as the authoritative reference for maintenance procedures, technical manuals, and engineering specifications.
- Safety Compliance: Managing the Safety-of-Flight (SOF) and Aviation Safety Action Message (ASAM) programs.
- Inspection: Conducting regular audits of maintenance shops, verifying aircraft historical records, and performing specialized inspections for aircraft components.
- Continuous Improvement: Analyzing failure trends and recommending corrective actions to enhance operational efficiency.
Requirements
To qualify for this position, applicants must meet specific military and professional benchmarks:
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Military Status | Must be or become a member of the WA Army National Guard. |
| Experience | 24 months of specialized QA experience or 1 year equivalent to the next lower grade. |
| Clearance | Must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance. |
| License | Valid WA state and military driver's license required. |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive annual salary ranging from $69,373 to $90,190. Compensation is based on the General Schedule (GS) pay scale for federal employees.
Benefits
Employees in this position are eligible for a robust federal benefits package, including health insurance, retirement planning (Thrift Savings Plan), and opportunities for military-based career development. You will also serve in a professional environment that prioritizes safety and technical expertise.
Application Tips
- Personalize Your Resume: Do not copy the job description. Tailor your resume to show your specific experience in quality assurance and aviation maintenance.
- Formatting Matters: Keep your resume under two pages to meet strict HR guidelines.
- Include Documentation: Ensure your Mil Form 174 is included, as it is a mandatory document for all applicants.
Serving as a Quality Assurance Specialist with the Washington Army National Guard is an excellent way to apply your technical skills while supporting the national defense. If you meet the qualifications, we encourage you to submit your application package before the October 10, 2026 deadline.
Why This Quality Assurance Specialist Job Matters
Elevate your career with the Washington Army National Guard: Join our team at Joint Base Lewis-McChord as a Quality Assurance Specialist and ensure the highest standards of excellence in aviation maintenance.
Quality Assurance Specialist Job Overview
The Army Aviation Support Facility (AASF) 1 at Joint Base Lewis-McChord is seeking a dedicated Quality Assurance Specialist to lead and implement our Quality Management Plan. In this vital role, you will serve as the primary authority on maintenance standards, ensuring all operations align with Department of Defense policies. This is a Title 32 Excepted Service position that requires membership in the Washington Army National Guard, offering a unique opportunity to combine professional civilian expertise with military service.
Requirements for Quality Assurance Specialist
- Must be a member of the Washington Army National Guard or eligible for immediate membership.
- 24 months of specialized experience in quality assurance principles, statistical sampling, or technical report preparation.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
- Must hold a valid Washington state driver's license and military driver's license.
- Must be able to successfully complete a trial period if required.
- Male applicants born after 12/31/1959 must be registered for Selective Service.
- Must be able to wear the appropriate military uniform.
Preferred Qualifications for Quality Assurance Specialist
- Experience in reviewing production activities against contract quality requirements.
- Proficiency in analyzing quality data to detect and correct unsatisfactory maintenance trends.
- Skill in interpreting complex engineering drawings, blueprints, and technical manuals.
- Experience conducting safety inspections and monitoring equipment calibration.
- Ability to provide formal training on quality compliance and inspection procedures.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary structure
- ✓Comprehensive federal benefits package
- ✓Opportunities for professional military and technical training
- ✓Access to state and federal employee programs
- ✓Telework eligibility as authorized by the supervisor
💡 How to Apply Quality Assurance Specialist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Quality Assurance Specialist Job
- Create or update your USAJOBS account profile.
- Prepare a resume that specifically highlights your specialized experience (do not exceed 2 pages).
- Complete and sign the Mil Form 174.
- Gather supporting documents including SF-50s, transcripts, and DD-214 if applicable.
- Apply online through the USAJOBS portal by October 10, 2026.
- Monitor your email for status notifications and confirm your documents have been successfully uploaded.
💡 General Tips
- Avoid verbatim copying from the announcement; use your own words to describe your professional achievements.
- Ensure your resume includes detailed dates (Month/Year) and average hours worked per week for all positions.
- Double-check your Mil Form 174, as applications submitted without it will be disqualified.
- Clearly articulate your military experience and how it aligns with the Quality Assurance series requirements.
- Reach out to the HR office if you are having trouble uploading documents before the deadline.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is military membership required for this position?
Yes, this is a Title 32 Excepted Service position. You must be a member of the Washington Army National Guard or be eligible to join immediately upon selection.
What is the maximum resume length?
Per the job announcement, your resume must not exceed two pages. Resumes exceeding this limit will not be considered.
Can I apply if I am not currently in the Guard?
Yes, provided you are eligible for immediate enlistment or appointment into the Washington Army National Guard at the required military grade.
Is relocation assistance provided?
*A: No, relocation expenses are not authorized for this position.*
Can I telework?
*A: Yes, telework is eligible for this position, subject to supervisory approval and mission requirements.*
Job from Army National Guard Units
The National Guard is the oldest component of the Armed Forces of the United States. With a legacy of serving both our nation and local communities during emergencies, the National Guard offers a unique professional environment. Joining the Washington Army National Guard means becoming part of a team dedicated to excellence, integrity, and collective defense.