Become a Range Operations Technician with the Illinois National Guard
Are you looking for a career that combines technical expertise with a commitment to service? The Illinois National Guard is currently hiring a Range Operations Technician in Sparta, Illinois. This role is essential for the effective management of training facilities, ensuring that our soldiers have the safe and functional environments they need to succeed.
Job Responsibilities
As a Range Operations Technician, your daily tasks are diverse and critical to mission success. Key duties include:
- Range Maintenance: Conducting preventative maintenance on automated targeting systems and live-fire enablers.
- Operational Support: Assisting with deconfliction of training schedules and range facility usage.
- Safety Inspections: Regularly patrolling ranges and training lands to identify and mitigate safety hazards.
- Administrative Duties: Maintaining equipment records, providing budget input, and disseminating Notices to Airmen (NOTAMS).
- Exercise Facilitation: Supporting simulation training exercises and coordinating safety memos and risk assessment worksheets.
Requirements
Candidates must meet specific criteria to be considered for this role:
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Military Membership | Must be/become a member of the ILNG |
| Rank | Must be SPC through SSG |
| Clearance | Ability to obtain/maintain Secret clearance |
| Experience | 1 year of specialized experience at GS-06 level |
In addition to the above, you must adhere to the Lautenberg Amendment regarding domestic violence and be willing to wear the military uniform daily.
Salary and Benefits
The position offers a competitive annual salary ranging from $51,740 to $67,264. In addition to base pay, federal employees enjoy a robust benefits package, including:
- Comprehensive health and retirement plans.
- Paid federal holidays and sick leave.
- Opportunities for military career advancement.
Application Tips
Your application is your first impression. To ensure you are competitive:
- Customize Your Resume: Clearly state your duties and accomplishments. Ensure dates are included.
- Check Your Eligibility: If you are unsure of your military status, contact an Illinois National Guard recruiter before applying.
- Use Official Forms: Ensure you have your NGIL Form 73 and any relevant DD-214 documents ready.
If you are a detail-oriented professional looking to support the Illinois National Guard’s training mission, this role offers a rewarding path forward. Apply today to contribute to the readiness of our forces.
Why This Range Operations Technician (Title 32) Job Matters
Support our nation's readiness by serving as a Range Operations Technician with the Illinois National Guard in Sparta.
Range Operations Technician (Title 32) Job Overview
The Illinois National Guard is seeking a dedicated Range Operations Technician (Title 32) to join our team in Sparta, Illinois. This vital role ensures that our training facilities remain operational, safe, and ready for use by our service members. You will be responsible for maintaining equipment, coordinating range schedules, and assisting in the management of live-fire enablers, playing a direct part in the operational success of the National Guard.
Requirements for Range Operations Technician (Title 32)
- Must be a member of the Illinois National Guard or willing to gain membership.
- Must hold a military grade between SPC and SSG.
- Must possess at least one year of specialized experience at the GS-06 level or equivalent.
- Required to wear the military uniform.
- Must pass a federal background investigation for a Secret clearance.
- Must not have a conviction for a qualifying crime of domestic violence per the Lautenberg Amendment.
- Male applicants born after December 31, 1959, must be registered with the Selective Service.
- Ability to work irregular, overtime, or weekend hours to meet operational needs.
Preferred Qualifications for Range Operations Technician (Title 32)
- Demonstrated experience in equipment maintenance and troubleshooting.
- Prior experience in range safety or facility operations.
- Strong proficiency in administrative record-keeping and data entry.
- Ability to interpret training directives and safety protocols.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal career retirement benefits
- ✓Comprehensive health insurance options
- ✓Paid federal holidays
- ✓Access to ongoing professional military and civilian training
- ✓Direct deposit enrollment
- ✓Generous leave programs
💡 How to Apply Range Operations Technician (Title 32) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Range Operations Technician (Title 32) Job
- Ensure you meet all eligibility requirements, including Illinois National Guard membership.
- Log into your USAJOBS account to prepare your federal resume.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Collect required documentation, including your resume, SF-50 (if applicable), and the NGIL Form 73.
- Submit your complete application package via the USAJOBS portal before the closing date.
- Monitor your status via the USAJOBS dashboard for updates.
💡 General Tips
- Tailor your resume specifically to the duties described; generic resumes are often less effective.
- Clearly document your work experience with dates (month/year) and hours worked per week.
- Use your own words to describe your accomplishments rather than copying the announcement verbatim.
- Verify that your military qualifications match the required grade range before applying.
- Submit your application early to allow time for document uploads and system processing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to be a member of the National Guard to apply?
Yes, this is a Title 32 Excepted Service position, which requires membership in the Illinois National Guard as a condition of employment.
Can I substitute education for the required experience?
No, this specific position requires qualifying experience alone; education cannot be used as a substitute for the required experience.
What happens if I submit my resume verbatim from the job description?
Applications that copy the job description language will not be considered; ensure your resume reflects your specific experience in your own words.
Is this a permanent position?
This is an Indefinite/Temporary promotion that has the potential to become permanent.
Will I need to work weekends?
Yes, operational needs may require irregular or weekend hours.
Job from Army National Guard Units
The National Guard is the oldest component of the U.S. Armed Forces, with a rich history of serving both the state and the nation. As a Title 32 Excepted Service employee, you will be part of an organization that values integrity, teamwork, and operational excellence. Joining the National Guard team means becoming part of a community that responds to emergencies and supports national defense efforts.