Managing Airpower: Production Controller Careers at McConnell AFB
In the high-stakes world of military aviation, success is defined by preparedness. Every aircraft in the fleet must be ready to fly, fight, and win at a moment's notice. The Air Force Reserve Command plays a critical role in maintaining this global reach, and at the heart of these operations is the Production Controller. If you have a background in technical scheduling, maintenance management, and production logistics, a career as an Air Reserve Technician (ART) at McConnell Air Force Base offers a unique opportunity to apply your skills toward a mission of national importance.
Job Responsibilities
As a Production Controller, you are the conductor of the maintenance hangar. Your daily tasks revolve around the lifecycle of aircraft readiness. Key responsibilities include:
- Planning & Scheduling: Creating and managing maintenance schedules based on flight requirements and technical needs.
- Data Integrity: Utilizing automated Maintenance Information Systems (MIS) to track status, log deviations, and ensure accurate reporting.
- Resource Allocation: Identifying and resolving shortages in labor or parts to minimize downtime.
- Liaison: Communicating between ground crews, technical supervisors, and the Command Post to ensure all stakeholders are informed.
- Training: Providing mentorship and instruction to Reservists to help them advance their technical proficiency.
Requirements
To be eligible for this position, you must be prepared to meet both civilian and military criteria. Candidates must possess at least one year of specialized experience at the GS-07 grade level or equivalent. This experience should demonstrate a deep understanding of complex production methods and maintenance terminology.
Comparison of Qualifications
| Qualification Type | Requirement Details |
|---|---|
| Experience | Min. 1 year at GS-07 or equivalent |
| Education | Masters degree or 2 years graduate study |
| Security | Secret Clearance eligibility |
| Military | Mandatory Air Force Reserve membership |
Salary and Benefits
The position offers a competitive salary range of $61,722 to $80,243 per year. Beyond the base salary, employees enjoy the comprehensive federal benefits package, including health insurance, generous retirement options, and the unique advantage of military leave for required training.
Serving as a Production Controller at McConnell AFB is more than a 9-to-5 position; it is a commitment to the readiness of the United States Air Force. If you are an organized leader with a technical edge, this role provides the stability of federal employment combined with the honor of supporting our nation's defense.
Why This Production Controller (Aircraft) Job Matters
Take charge of aviation readiness at McConnell AFB—where your technical precision directly supports the mission of the United States Air Force.
Production Controller (Aircraft) Job Overview
The 931 Maintenance Group is seeking a skilled Production Controller (Aircraft) to join our team as an Air Reserve Technician (ART). In this pivotal role, you will be responsible for orchestrating aircraft production efforts, resolving resource shortages, and ensuring our fleet remains mission-ready. You will act as the vital link between maintenance management and technical teams, balancing civilian expertise with military readiness in a high-impact, fast-paced environment.
Requirements for Production Controller (Aircraft)
- At least one year of specialized experience at the GS-07 level or equivalent.
- Must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
- Must maintain active membership in the Air Force Reserve.
- U.S. Citizenship is required.
- Must meet all physical, age, and weight standards for military service.
- Must pass a drug test.
- Must be able to provide official transcripts if qualifying via education.
Preferred Qualifications for Production Controller (Aircraft)
- Experience in aircraft maintenance management systems.
- Knowledge of Total Quality Management (TQM) tools and methodologies.
- Expertise in interpreting military technical orders and aerospace data.
- Strong background in production control for aviation or heavy industrial projects.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary and step increases
- ✓Federal health insurance and life insurance programs
- ✓Retirement planning through the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS)
- ✓Paid federal holidays and generous annual/sick leave accrual
- ✓15 days of paid military leave annually for active duty training
- ✓Career growth and professional development opportunities
💡 How to Apply Production Controller (Aircraft) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Production Controller (Aircraft) Job
- Create or update your profile on the USAJOBS portal.
- Prepare a resume that specifically highlights your hours per week, dates of employment, and relevant job series/grades.
- Gather your supporting documents, including SF-50s if you are a current or former federal employee.
- Submit your application and complete the mandatory online questionnaire before the deadline.
- Monitor your status via your USAJOBS account dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume does not exceed the two-page limit; prioritize relevant experience.
- Clearly define your role and responsibilities in each position to highlight specialized experience.
- If you are a veteran, include your DD-214 or certification memo to claim your preference.
- Verify all documents have cleared the system's virus scan before the closing date.
- Double-check that your resume explicitly states your pay plan, series, and grade if applicable.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an Air Reserve Technician (ART) position?
An ART position is a dual-status role where you serve as a federal civilian employee while maintaining membership in the Air Force Reserve. You will perform your civilian duties daily and participate in military training as required.
Is a Secret clearance required for this role?
Yes, this position requires you to obtain and maintain a Secret-level security clearance, which involves a background check into your suitability for the role.
Job from Headquarters, Air Force Reserve Command
The Department of the Air Force is dedicated to the core values of integrity, service before self, and excellence. As part of the 931 Maintenance Group, you will join a specialized team focused on the maintenance, repair, and modification of high-performance aircraft. This is not just a civilian job; it is a collaborative effort that blends federal civil service with military readiness to ensure the Air Force remains the world's most capable aviation force.