Become an Aircraft Maintenance Manager: A Career in Aviation Leadership
The Washington Air National Guard is currently seeking a dedicated and experienced professional to serve as an Aircraft Maintenance Manager (GS-13) within the 141st Aircraft Maintenance Squadron. This role is a cornerstone of our mission readiness, requiring a leader who can manage complex operations, mentor technicians, and ensure the peak performance of our aircraft fleet.
Job Responsibilities
As an Aircraft Maintenance Manager, you will be at the helm of unit efforts to ensure aircraft readiness. Key responsibilities include:
- Operational Planning: Scheduling and directing maintenance resources to meet daily and wartime requirements.
- Leadership: Managing a diverse workforce of technicians, ensuring they are trained, motivated, and capable of performing their duties.
- Resource Management: Planning fiscal budgets and managing facility upgrades.
- Compliance: Ensuring all maintenance activities adhere to federal laws, safety regulations, and airworthiness standards.
Requirements
To be eligible for this position, candidates must meet specific criteria:
- Must maintain active membership in the Washington Air National Guard.
- Possess at least 36 months of specialized experience in maintenance operations.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a SECRET security clearance.
- Must be able to work in a cooperative, professional, and military-disciplined environment.
| Feature | Requirement Detail |
|---|---|
| Salary Range | $106,991 - $139,091 |
| Location | Fairchild AFB, Washington |
| Security Clearance | SECRET |
| Appointment Type | Permanent, Excepted Service |
Salary Overview
This position is compensated at the GS-13 level, offering a salary range of $106,991 to $139,091 per year. This competitive pay reflects the high level of responsibility and the technical expertise required for this leadership role.
Benefits
Employees in this position benefit from the comprehensive federal employee benefits package, including health insurance, retirement options, and professional growth opportunities within the Department of the Air Force.
Application Tips
- Customize Your Resume: Clearly demonstrate your specialized experience without copying the job posting.
- Check Your Length: Your resume must not exceed two pages.
- Include Military Details: If you are a Guard/Reserve member, follow the specific guidance provided for documenting your military service.
- Proofread: Ensure your contact information is accurate before submitting.
If you have the experience and leadership skills required to manage aircraft maintenance operations, we encourage you to apply to the Washington Air National Guard. Your dedication will help keep our nation safe and our fleet mission-ready.
Why This Aircraft Maintenance Manager Job Matters
Take command of mission readiness and lead high-stakes aircraft maintenance operations with the 141st Aircraft Maintenance Squadron in Fairchild, Washington.
Aircraft Maintenance Manager Job Overview
The Washington Air National Guard is seeking a skilled and experienced Aircraft Maintenance Manager (GS-13) to serve at Fairchild AFB. This position is a permanent, excepted service role requiring active membership in the Washington Air National Guard. The successful candidate will provide mission-critical leadership, directing the maintenance of aircraft and the professional development of a diverse team to ensure fleet readiness for both domestic and overseas operations.
Requirements for Aircraft Maintenance Manager
- Must be or become a member of the Washington Air National Guard.
- Must be able to obtain and maintain a SECRET security clearance.
- Must be willing to wear the official military uniform.
- Must successfully pass mandatory drug testing.
- Must complete a trial period if required.
- Males born after December 31, 1959, must be registered with the Selective Service.
- Possess specialized experience in equipment maintenance management and resource allocation.
Preferred Qualifications for Aircraft Maintenance Manager
- Military Grade O4/Maj (Promotion eligible to O5/Lt Col preferred).
- Proven experience in long-term strategic planning for maintenance and facility operations.
- Strong background in personnel management, conflict resolution, and cross-departmental negotiation.
- Demonstrated ability to manage complex maintenance budgets and resource funding.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Federal Salary
- ✓Comprehensive Federal Benefits Package
- ✓Training and Professional Development
- ✓Stable Career within the National Guard
- ✓Opportunity to serve in high-impact mission environments
💡 How to Apply Aircraft Maintenance Manager Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Aircraft Maintenance Manager Job
- Create or update your profile on USAJOBS.
- Prepare a resume that specifically highlights relevant specialized experience in your own words (maximum 2 pages).
- Complete the Mil Form 174.
- Submit all required documentation, including transcripts and SF-50 forms, through the online portal.
- Monitor your status via the USAJOBS portal until the announcement closes.
💡 General Tips
- Avoid using verbatim language from the job announcement in your resume; use your own professional voice.
- Ensure your resume strictly adheres to the 2-page limit, as longer resumes will not be reviewed.
- Clearly list hours worked per week and specific dates (Month/Year) for all employment history.
- Verify that your military service, including specific order periods, is documented according to the provided guidance.
- Submit your application well in advance of the deadline to account for potential technical processing times.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is military membership required for this position?
Yes, this is an excepted service position requiring active membership in the Washington Air National Guard.
Can I apply if I am not currently in the National Guard?
Yes, provided you are eligible for immediate membership and employment in the Washington Air National Guard at the required military grade.
What happens if I submit a resume longer than two pages?
Resumes exceeding the two-page limit will not be considered for this vacancy.
What is the closing date?
The application must be submitted by 11:59 PM EST on October 13, 2026.
Do I need a degree?
While no specific degree is required to qualify via experience, you must demonstrate the necessary specialized experience to qualify for this grade.
Job from Air National Guard Units
The Air National Guard is a vital component of the United States Armed Forces, serving our country in both state emergencies and federal missions. Joining the 141st Aircraft Maintenance Squadron at Fairchild AFB means joining a team dedicated to excellence, integrity, and national security. We provide the resources and environment necessary for professionals to excel in high-stakes environments.