Become an Aircraft Sheet Metal Mechanic with the Air Force Reserve Command
Are you a skilled metal worker looking for a career that offers stability, purpose, and a chance to work on high-performance aircraft? The Air Force Reserve Command is currently hiring a Sheet Metal Mechanic at Peterson AFB, Colorado. This role is more than just a job; it is a critical contribution to the mission of Global Vigilance and Global Reach.
Job Responsibilities
Your primary role is to ensure the structural integrity of aircraft and support equipment. Daily duties include:
- Planning and laying out repairs from blueprints and technical data.
- Fabricating complex structural components using stainless steel, aluminum, and advanced composites like Kevlar and honeycomb.
- Operating specialized shop tools, including rivet guns, dimplers, and permaswedge repair kits.
- Ensuring environmental compliance regarding hazardous waste and chemical coatings.
- Providing technical training to reservists on structural maintenance tasks.
Requirements
To be successful, candidates must demonstrate a high degree of technical competence. You must show the ability to perform structural repairs with minimal supervision. Additionally, you must be prepared to maintain active status within the Air Force Reserve.
Comparison of Key Expectations
| Feature | Requirement Status |
|---|---|
| Security Clearance | Secret Required |
| Drug Screening | Mandatory |
| Resume Length | Maximum 2 Pages |
| Citizenship | U.S. Citizen Only |
Salary Overview
The position offers a competitive hourly wage ranging from $36.17 to $42.19, reflecting the specialized skill set required for aircraft structural work.
Benefits
Federal employees enjoy a robust benefits package, including:
- Health insurance plans.
- Retirement savings plans (FERS).
- Paid federal holidays and leave.
- Military leave benefits for training.
Application Tips
Precision is key when applying for a federal position. Ensure your resume highlights your specific duties and clearly states the hours worked per week. Missing this information is the most common reason for disqualification.
Working as a Sheet Metal Mechanic at Peterson AFB provides a stable, rewarding environment for those dedicated to aviation excellence. Prepare your application materials carefully and apply today to support the Air Force mission.
Why This Sheet Metal Mechanic (Aircraft/Painter) Job Matters
Take your aircraft maintenance career to new heights by serving as a vital Sheet Metal Mechanic for the Air Force Reserve Command in Colorado.
Sheet Metal Mechanic (Aircraft/Painter) Job Overview
The Air Force Reserve Command is seeking a skilled Sheet Metal Mechanic to join their team at Peterson AFB. This Air Reserve Technician (ART) position combines the rewards of a federal civilian career with the unique commitment of serving in the Air Force Reserve. You will perform high-level structural maintenance, fabricate complex components, and provide essential training to reservists, ensuring our aircraft are always mission-ready.
Requirements for Sheet Metal Mechanic (Aircraft/Painter)
- Ability to perform sheet metal mechanic duties with little to no supervision.
- Must maintain active membership in the assigned Air Force Reserve unit.
- U.S. Citizenship is required.
- Must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
- Pass a pre-employment drug screening.
- Provide a resume not exceeding two pages, including specific hours worked per week and dates of employment.
Preferred Qualifications for Sheet Metal Mechanic (Aircraft/Painter)
- Experience in repairing and modifying bonded honeycomb and composite structural components.
- Proficiency in reading and interpreting complex blueprints, engineering drawings, and technical specifications.
- Proven history of maintaining clean, organized workspaces in compliance with EPA and ECAMP environmental standards.
- Familiarity with advanced shop mathematics and radial-line/parallel-line development for pattern layout.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Full federal competitive service benefits.
- ✓Generous paid federal holidays and leave.
- ✓Comprehensive health and life insurance options.
- ✓Access to the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- ✓Military leave benefits for ART training requirements.
- ✓Potential for recruitment or retention incentives.
💡 How to Apply Sheet Metal Mechanic (Aircraft/Painter) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Sheet Metal Mechanic (Aircraft/Painter) Job
- Log in or create an account on USAJOBS.
- Prepare a resume that is exactly two pages or fewer, highlighting relevant experience with hours per week and dates.
- Complete the online application questionnaire.
- Upload all required supporting documentation, including SF-50s for current/former federal employees or DD-214 for veterans.
- Review your submission for accuracy and click 'Submit My Application' before the deadline.
💡 General Tips
- Double-check that your resume explicitly states hours worked per week; omission may lead to disqualification.
- Ensure your document uploads have had at least one hour to clear the system's virus scan before the closing time.
- For veterans, ensure your DD-214 or certification memo clearly notes character of service.
- Verify your eligibility documents, such as the PPP or Military Spouse checklists, to ensure you receive proper consideration.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an Air Reserve Technician (ART)?
An ART is a civilian employee who is also a member of the Air Force Reserve. You perform your civilian job during the week and participate in military training for at least one weekend per month.
Is a security clearance required?
Yes, this position requires a Secret security clearance.
Can I submit a long resume?
No. Resumes for this position are strictly limited to two pages. Any resume exceeding this limit will be removed from consideration.
Do I need prior military experience?
While this is an ART position requiring reserve membership, the recruitment process considers a variety of backgrounds. Review the eligibility requirements on the official site.
What is the application deadline?
All applications must be submitted by 11:59 PM (ET) on October 28, 2026.
Job from Headquarters, Air Force Reserve Command
The Department of the Air Force maintains a standard of excellence, integrity, and service. As an Air Reserve Technician (ART), you occupy a dual-status role that blends the benefits of federal civil service with the camaraderie and purpose of military reserve service.