Navigating a Civilian Logistics Career: Become a Materials Handler with NAVSUP in Lemoore, CA

Modern defense operations rely on an incredibly complex network of logistics, material distribution, and supply chain precision. Behind every naval aviation squadron and tactical fleet unit stands a dedicated team of civilian supply specialists working tirelessly to ensure equipment, repair parts, and essential goods reach their destination safely. The Department of the Navy, through the NAVSUP Fleet Logistics Center San Diego, is currently offering a career opportunity for a Materials Handler (WG-06) stationed at Lemoore, California.

Positioned at the heart of naval aviation in Central California, this role offers an hourly wage ranging from $22.36 to $26.07 per hour, comprehensive federal benefits, and long-term career security. Whether you are a military veteran transitioning to civil service, a experienced commercial warehouse operator, or a current federal employee looking to advance, this guide provides an in-depth breakdown of the responsibilities, qualifications, application guidelines, and benefits associated with this position.

About the Agency: NAVSUP Fleet Logistics Center San Diego

The Naval Supply Systems Command (NAVSUP) delivers world-class logistics, business, and supply chain services to keep the U.S. Navy and joint forces mission-ready across the globe. Headquartered in Pennsylvania, NAVSUP operates a global network of Fleet Logistics Centers (FLCs) that deliver direct, localized support to shore commands and operational fleets.

NAVSUP Fleet Logistics Center San Diego services defense installations across the Southwestern United States. At Naval Air Station (NAS) Lemoore, the Navy's premier West Coast strike-fighter hub, NAVSUP personnel manage expansive inventory systems, coordinate heavy freight movements, and preserve critical aviation assets. Joining the NAVSUP team means stepping into a purpose-driven environment where military and civilian talents unite to protect national security.

Essential Job Responsibilities

As a Materials Handler at the WG-06 level, you will execute a complete range of receiving, storing, issuing, and material handling assignments. Working under general supervision, you will take ownership of designated product lines or warehouse sectors to streamline material movement.

Key daily duties include:

Receiving & Processing Shipments: Coordinating incoming and outgoing freight, inspecting packages against manifest documentation, and placing goods in staging zones to meet operational priorities.
Warehouse & Space Utilization: Planning storage layouts, arranging items on pallets or bins, and optimizing floor space in alignment with Navy supply regulations.
Equipment Operation: Safely driving powered industrial material handling equipment—including electric, propane, or diesel forklifts with capacities under 15,000 pounds, electric jacks, and utility vehicles.
Automated Data Entry: Utilizing handheld automated scanners and digital logistics tracking applications to issue, receive, re-warehouse, and audit inventory entries in real time.
Care of Supplies in Storage (COSIS): Applying specialized preservation and protective wrapping techniques to guard sensitive electronic components, high-value gear, and mechanical parts against damage or environmental deterioration.
Safety & HAZMAT Compliance: Adhering strictly to industrial safety standards, protective gear rules, and hazardous material storage mandates.
Deficiency Investigation: Reviewing customer complaints, tracing shipment errors, and recommending corrective procedures to leadership.

Qualifications & Screen-out Requirements

Federal Wage System (FWS) trade positions do not require a specific degree or fixed years of experience. Instead, your eligibility is evaluated on your practical knowledge, demonstrated trade skill level, and competence across key job elements.

The Mandatory Screen-out Element

To pass initial screening for the WG-06 grade, your application must clearly demonstrate the ability to perform the full range of Materials Handler duties independently. Specifically, you must show experience in:

Overseeing or handling material product lines or warehouse sectors.
Executing storage, bin layout, tagging, and stock rotation assignments.
Using computer systems and material handling tools safely.
Operating powered forklifts under 15,000 lbs.

Core Job Elements Evaluated

Candidates who pass the screen-out criteria are rated on six primary job factors:

Ability to perform position duties without excess supervision.
Ability to interpret written instructions, technical manuals, and specifications.
Dexterity and adherence to workplace safety practices.
Comprehensive knowledge of warehouse materials and handling methods.
Precise technical work practices.
Organizational habits and facility neatness.

Federal Wage System Salary & Position Details

This position operates under the Federal Wage System (FWS) grade structure for blue-collar trade occupations. The hourly wage range is $22.36 to $26.07 per hour, with step increases granted over time as performance standards are met.

Below is a structural comparison illustrating how this federal role compares to standard commercial warehouse positions:

Operational Feature	NAVSUP Materials Handler (WG-06)	Standard Commercial Warehouse Position
Pay Structure	Standardized FWS Wage Scale ($22.36 - $26.07/hr)	Variable market rate without set step progression
Retirement Plan	FERS Lifetime Pension + TSP with 5% Match	Basic 401(k) with limited or matching caps
Security Clearance	Secret Security Clearance Required	Basic commercial background check
Equipment Scope	Forklifts up to 15,000 lbs + Scanners	Standard pallet jacks & basic warehouse lifts
Leave Accrual	13 to 26 paid vacation days + 13 sick days annually	Combined PTO package (typically 10-15 days total)
Job Security	High stability within federal civil service	Tied directly to market demand & corporate margins

Comprehensive Federal Civilian Benefits

Working as a civilian employee for the Department of the Navy unlocks access to one of the most generous employee compensation packages in the United States.

Healthcare Coverage: Choose from dozens of high-quality health plans through the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) program, with the government covering up to 75% of premiums.
Retirement System (FERS): Receive a guaranteed lifetime pension alongside your voluntary contributions to the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP), which features up to 5% dollar-for-dollar agency matching.
Paid Time Off: Earn 13 days of paid annual leave (scaling up to 26 days with service tenure), 13 paid sick leave days per year, and 11 paid federal holidays.
Life & Long-Term Insurance: Enroll in Federal Employees' Group Life Insurance (FEGLI) and specialized vision, dental, and long-term care plans.
Work-Life Support: Access employee assistance programs, health programs, and ongoing continuous education resources.

Application Guidelines & Essential Resume Tips

Securing a federal trade job requires precise attention to detail during the application process. Mistakes can lead to immediate disqualification.

The Two-Page Resume Rule

Crucial Notice: For this specific job announcement (ST-13098090-27-AB), your resume must not exceed two (2) pages in length. Applications containing resumes longer than two pages will be judged ineligible and destroyed without review.

Formatting Your Work History

To ensure your experience is properly credited, list the following information for every prior job entry:

Full Employer Name and Workplace Location
Exact Start and End Dates (Month/Year format)
Average Hours Worked Per Week (e.g., 40 hours/week)
Position Title, Pay Plan, Series, and Grade (if previous federal experience, e.g., WG-6907-05)
Detailed bullet points showing your warehouse, scanner, and forklift handling experience.

Navigating USAJOBS

Go to USAJOBS and log in or set up a profile.
Build your document using the built-in USAJOBS Resume Builder to ensure all standard fields are included.
Complete the online questionnaire, answering all questions fully and honestly.
Upload all required supporting files (e.g., DD-214 for veterans, SF-15, transcripts, or ICTAP letters).
Submit your package prior to the strict deadline on November 2, 2026, at 11:59 PM EST.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Where is the physical workplace located?

This position is located on-site at Naval Air Station Lemoore in Lemoore, California.

2. Can I apply if I am not a military veteran?

Yes! While hiring paths exist for veterans, military spouses, individuals with disabilities, and career transition candidates, all qualified candidates falling under the announced hiring paths are encouraged to apply.

3. What forklifts will I be expected to operate?

You will operate electric, propane gas, or diesel-powered forklifts capable of lifting loads up to 15,000 pounds.

4. Is telework available for this job?

No. Due to the physical nature of material handling, warehouse receiving, and heavy equipment operation, this position requires 100% on-site attendance.

5. Who can I contact if I have technical questions about the application?

You may reach out directly to the Department of the Navy Employment Information Center via email at [email protected].

A career as a Materials Handler (WG-06) with NAVSUP Fleet Logistics Center San Diego represents more than just a warehouse job—it is a vital civilian role that directly supports defense readiness at NAS Lemoore. With strong hourly compensation ($22.36–$26.07/hr), complete federal benefits, and long-term career growth, this opportunity is ideal for skilled warehouse personnel.

Ensure your resume meets the strict two-page limit, gather your supporting documents, and complete your application on USAJOBS before November 2, 2026!

Why This Materials Handler Job Matters

Step into a vital defense logistics role with the Department of the Navy as a Materials Handler in Lemoore, CA, earning up to $26.07 per hour with complete federal civilian benefits!

Materials Handler Job Overview

The Department of the Navy, through the NAVSUP Fleet Logistics Center San Diego, is seeking a dedicated Materials Handler (WG-06) at Naval Air Station Lemoore in California. This civilian role is essential to managing military inventory, receiving weapon systems, laying out storage configurations, and operating material handling equipment up to 15,000 pounds. Offering competitive hourly pay between $22.36 and $26.07, federal healthcare, and long-term pension benefits, this position offers an exceptional entry point into defense logistics.

Requirements for Materials Handler

Demonstrated ability to perform the full range of Materials Handler tasks independently without more than normal supervision.
Proven experience in warehouse receiving, organizing storage layouts, and managing single or multi-line product inventory.
Proficiency operating powered material handling equipment, such as electric, propane, or diesel forklifts with capacities under 15,000 pounds, as well as pallet jacks and electric lifts.
Skill in utilizing computer terminals and automated barcode/scanner identification equipment to issue, receive, track, and move materials.
Application of Care of Supplies in Storage (COSIS) techniques to prevent stock deterioration or physical damage.
Strict adherence to workplace safety regulations and proper handling procedures for hazardous materials.
Ability to investigate customer complaints or deficiency reports to determine root causes.
Must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
Submission of a resume strictly capped at two (2) pages maximum.

Preferred Qualifications for Materials Handler

Experience managing specialized naval logistics inventory, such as aviation parts, construction materials, electronic systems, or high-value defense stock.
Familiarity with Navy supply systems, automated inventory management software, and warehouse auditing processes.
Prior active military service or experience working within Department of Defense supply chain facilities.
Current active Secret security clearance.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Federal Wage System hourly pay scale ranging from $22.36 to $26.07.
✓Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) with nationwide provider networks.
✓Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) pension coupled with the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) featuring up to 5% agency matching.
✓Generous annual leave, sick leave, and 11 paid federal holidays per year.
✓Federal Employees' Group Life Insurance (FEGLI) and flexible spending accounts.
✓Robust career development, continuous trade training, and upward mobility within defense logistics.

💡 How to Apply Materials Handler Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Materials Handler Job

Review the official USAJOBS posting carefully to understand all eligibility criteria and required documents.
Prepare a focused resume strictly limited to two pages or fewer, detailing your warehouse experience, equipment operation skills, and relevant employment details.
Navigate to the USA Staffing online portal via USAJOBS to initiate your digital application.
Complete the mandatory online occupational assessment questionnaire previewable online.
Attach required documentation, such as DD-214 copies for military preference, SF-15 forms, transcripts, or ICTAP proof where applicable.
Submit your complete application package before the deadline at 11:59 PM EST on November 2, 2026.

💡 General Tips

Keep your resume to two pages maximum. Applications with resumes exceeding two pages will be automatically disqualified.
Include essential job detail metadata for every role: start/end dates (Month/Year), average hours worked per week, job title, and federal pay plan/series/grade if applicable.
Utilize the USAJOBS Resume Builder tool to format your work history correctly.
Clearly highlight experience operating forklifts, using automated scanners, executing inventory audits, and applying safety regulations in your work descriptions.
Double-check that all uploaded PDF attachments are clear, legible, and uncorrupted prior to submitting.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the pay rate for this Materials Handler position?

The pay rate is $22.36 to $26.07 per hour, corresponding to the Federal Wage System (FWS) grade WG-06.

Where is the job located?

The physical workplace is located at Naval Air Station Lemoore in Lemoore, California.

How strict is the resume page limit?

The resume page limit is strictly enforced at two pages maximum. Resumes exceeding two pages will not be evaluated.

Does this role require a security clearance?

Yes. Candidates selected for the role must be capable of obtaining and maintaining a Secret security clearance.

Are remote work or telework options available for this role?

No. This is a physical, on-site industrial warehouse position and is not eligible for telework or remote arrangements.