Become a Surface Maintenance Mechanic with the Illinois National Guard
Are you a skilled mechanic looking for a career that combines technical challenges with service to your state and country? The Illinois National Guard is currently seeking a highly motivated Surface Maintenance Mechanic (Title 32) to join the team in Marion, Illinois. This position is essential for maintaining the operational readiness of our fleet, ensuring that combat, tactical, and commercial vehicles are always mission-ready.
Job Responsibilities
As a Surface Maintenance Mechanic, you will be responsible for the full lifecycle of vehicle maintenance. Your duties will include:
- Troubleshooting mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic failures.
- Performing major overhauls on engines, transmissions, and drive-line assemblies.
- Utilizing advanced computer diagnostic tools and engine analyzers.
- Adhering to strict technical manuals and safety regulations.
- Rebuilding components such as fuel injectors, alternators, and brake cylinders.
Requirements
To qualify for this position, you must meet several key criteria:
| Requirement Type | Detail |
|---|---|
| Military Affiliation | Must be or become an ILNG member |
| Security Clearance | Must be able to obtain a Secret clearance |
| Education/Experience | Experience-based only; no education substitution |
| Citizenship | Must be a U.S. Citizen |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive federal wage grade, ranging from $24.10 to $39.36 per hour. Employees benefit from the stability of federal service and the unique environment of the National Guard, which includes ongoing technical training and the opportunity to work on diverse military-grade platforms.
Application Tips
When applying, ensure your resume is clear, concise, and focused. Because the review process is automated, you must highlight your hands-on mechanical experience clearly. Don't forget to attach your NGIL Form 73, as applications missing this specific document may be rejected.
If you have the tools, the talent, and the drive to maintain the heavy-duty equipment that keeps our forces operational, the Illinois National Guard wants to hear from you. Apply today to secure your future in this vital role.
Why This Surface Maintenance Mechanic (Title 32) Job Matters
Take your mechanical expertise to the next level by joining the Illinois National Guard as a Surface Maintenance Mechanic, keeping our fleet ready for mission success.
Surface Maintenance Mechanic (Title 32) Job Overview
The Illinois National Guard is seeking a skilled Surface Maintenance Mechanic to perform critical repair and diagnostic work on a wide array of combat, tactical, and commercial vehicles. In this Title 32 Excepted Service position, you will be a vital part of the maintenance team, ensuring that specialized equipment—from internal combustion engines to hydraulic systems—remains operational. This role demands technical proficiency, a commitment to military service, and the ability to work independently to solve mechanical challenges.
Requirements for Surface Maintenance Mechanic (Title 32)
- Must be a member of the Illinois National Guard or willing to join.
- Must hold the required military grade (Enlisted E3-E8).
- Must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
- Males born after December 31, 1959, must be registered for Selective Service.
- Must be willing to wear a military uniform while on duty.
- Must pass a background investigation for federal employment suitability.
- Must not have a conviction for a qualifying crime of domestic violence under the Lautenberg Amendment.
Preferred Qualifications for Surface Maintenance Mechanic (Title 32)
- Experience in diagnosing electrical, electronic, and hydraulic control systems.
- Proficiency in overhauling heavy-duty diesel, turbine, and multi-fuel engines.
- Demonstrated ability to read and interpret complex schematics, technical manuals, and blueprints.
- Experience using advanced diagnostic software and specialized military test equipment.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal government employment benefits package.
- ✓Access to specialized military technical training.
- ✓Stable career path within the Department of the Army.
- ✓Contribution to national and state-level emergency response efforts.
💡 How to Apply Surface Maintenance Mechanic (Title 32) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Surface Maintenance Mechanic (Title 32) Job
- Create or update your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume that specifically addresses your mechanical experience, including dates, hours per week, and detailed duties.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload required documentation, including your resume (limit 2 pages), SF-50 (if applicable), and the mandatory NGIL Form 73.
- Submit your complete application package before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume includes month and year for all employment dates.
- Be specific about the types of tools and systems you have experience with.
- Do not submit your resume in verbatim from the job description; use your own words to describe your background.
- Verify that your NGIL Form 73 is signed and correctly filled out regarding military qualifications.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is military membership required for this position?
Yes, this is a Title 32 Excepted Service position, which mandates membership in the Illinois National Guard.
Can I substitute education for the required experience?
No. For this specific occupational series and grade, you must meet the qualification requirements through relevant work experience only.
Are there specific resume length requirements?
Yes, your resume must not exceed 2 pages.
What is the military grade requirement?
*A: Applicants must be Enlisted, grade E3-E8.*
Is relocation assistance provided?
*A: No, relocation expenses are not authorized for this position.*
Job from Army National Guard Units
The National Guard is the oldest component of the U.S. Armed Forces. Serving both state and federal missions, the Guard is a cornerstone of American national defense and domestic emergency response. When you join the Illinois National Guard as a technician, you are becoming part of a proud tradition of citizens who answer the call to serve their neighbors and their nation.