Launch Your Career: Maintenance Mechanic with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

Are you a skilled tradesperson looking for a stable, meaningful career where your work protects the nation’s natural resources? The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) is currently hiring a Maintenance Mechanic for the Iron River National Fish Hatchery in Iron River, Wisconsin.

Job Responsibilities

As a Maintenance Mechanic, your day-to-day work will be dynamic and multi-faceted. Key duties include:

Facility Maintenance: General repair of buildings, exterior structures, and grounds.
Plumbing and Electrical: Installation and repair of water filtration, sewage systems, lighting, and electrical fixtures.
Heavy Equipment Operation: Using backhoes, dozers, and road graders to maintain hatchery roads and dikes.
Welding and Fabrication: Repairing equipment parts using various welding techniques.
Safety Oversight: Serving as an active member of the hatchery’s Safety Team.
Operational Support: Assisting with lake trout distribution and occasional biological hatchery functions.

Core Competencies Comparison

Skill Area	Expected Proficiency
Equipment Repair	High
Welding Techniques	Skilled
Electrical/Plumbing	Intermediate to High
Heavy Machinery	Experienced

Requirements

To be considered, candidates must meet specific criteria, including:

U.S. citizenship.
Residency within 50 miles of the duty station (Proof required).
Ability to pass background and drug screenings.
Possession or ability to obtain a CDL within six months.
Capability to handle physical labor, including lifting up to 50 lbs.

Salary Overview

This position is a Federal Wage System (FWS) role. The pay range for this position is $31.72 to $37.01 per hour. New federal hires typically begin at the Step 1 rate.

Benefits

A provided uniform allowance.
Excellent federal health insurance options.
Federal retirement benefits.
Consistent, long-term employment within a stable government agency.

Application Tips

Watch the Resume Length: Your resume must be exactly two pages or less.
Proof of Residence: Keep your utility bills or lease agreements handy; they are mandatory for proving your local residency.
Clarity is King: Explicitly state your experience with the tools and machinery listed in the job description to ensure you pass the initial screening.

Working as a Maintenance Mechanic at the Iron River National Fish Hatchery offers a unique blend of skilled trade work and environmental stewardship. If you reside in the Iron River area and possess the necessary technical skills, this is an exceptional opportunity to serve your country. Apply today to begin your journey with the Department of the Interior.

Why This Ful-Maintenance Mechanic Job Matters

Launch a rewarding career with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service as a Maintenance Mechanic in the heart of Wisconsin’s natural landscape.

Ful-Maintenance Mechanic Job Overview

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is seeking a skilled Maintenance Mechanic to join the Iron River National Fish Hatchery team in Iron River, WI. This role is essential for maintaining the facility's grounds, structures, and utility systems, ensuring the hatchery continues its vital work in wildlife conservation. You will handle a diverse range of tasks, from heavy equipment operation to plumbing and electrical repairs, all while contributing to the security and efficiency of a critical federal installation.

Requirements for Ful-Maintenance Mechanic

Must be a U.S. Citizen or National.
Must maintain a permanent and exclusive residence within 50 miles of Iron River, WI.
Must pass a pre-employment alcohol and drug test and be subject to random testing.
Must possess or obtain/maintain a valid driver's license and Commercial Driver's License (CDL) within six months.
Must be 18 years of age or older to operate government vehicles.
Must obtain or hold a Motorboat Operator Certification (MOCC), Merchant Mariner Document (MMD), and Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) within 6 months.
Must be registered for Selective Service (for males born after 12-31-59).
Must undergo a background investigation and suitability adjudication.
Completion of a one-year probationary period.

Preferred Qualifications for Ful-Maintenance Mechanic

Strong proficiency in plumbing and electrical system repair.
Proven experience operating heavy machinery such as backhoes, dozers, and road graders.
Technical skill in manual welding processes and metal fabrication.
Ability to interpret technical specifications, blueprints, and assembly instructions.
Experience in maintaining heavy-duty construction equipment.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Uniform allowance provided.
✓Access to federal health insurance and retirement plans.
✓Potential availability of government quarters.
✓Paid federal holidays and leave accrual.
✓Job stability within the Department of the Interior.

💡 How to Apply Ful-Maintenance Mechanic Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Ful-Maintenance Mechanic Job

Prepare a resume that does not exceed two single-sided pages.
Gather proof of residence (e.g., utility bill, lease agreement) within 50 miles of the station.
Log in to USAJOBS and create or update your profile.
Complete the application questionnaire via the provided link.
Upload all required supporting documents, including veteran documentation if applicable.
Review your application package for accuracy and submit before the October 27, 2026 deadline.
Check your application status via your USAJOBS account.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume strictly follows the two-page limit; extra pages will not be reviewed.
Clearly document your specific experience with heavy machinery and specialized trades to meet screening requirements.
Do not include photographs in any of your documentation.
Verify your residency documents are current and meet the specific criteria mentioned in the job post.
Double-check your submission after updating your documents in the USAJOBS system.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I substitute education for experience?

No, there is no substitution of education for experience for this Federal Wage System (FWS) position.

Is residency required to apply?

Yes, applicants must reside within a 50-mile radius of Iron River, WI, and provide proof of residence at the time of application.

What happens after I apply?

Your application will be reviewed for minimum qualifications. If qualified, your name may be referred to the hiring official for an interview. Status updates are available through your USAJOBS account.

Job from U.S. Fish And Wildlife Service

The Department of the Interior (DOI) manages America's natural and cultural heritage. Within this department, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service works tirelessly to conserve, protect, and enhance fish, wildlife, and plant habitats. Employees in these roles are at the forefront of sustaining our environment for future generations.