Become a Composite/Plastic Fabricator at Hill AFB
Are you a skilled technician looking to take your career to new heights? The 419th Maintenance Squadron at Hill Air Force Base, Utah, is currently hiring a Composite/Plastic Fabricator. This unique role blends federal civilian employment with the prestige of serving in the Air Force Reserve.
Job Responsibilities
As a Composite/Plastic Fabricator, your work will be critical to aircraft integrity. Key duties include:
- Reading and interpreting complex engineering drawings and blueprints.
- Executing precise structural repairs and composite fabrication.
- Applying specialized low-observable coatings to exacting tolerances.
- Performing regular audits of structural components for system integrity.
- Maintaining shop tools and equipment to ensure a safe, debris-free environment.
Requirements
You must be able to perform these duties with minimal supervision. Because this is a Testing Designated Position, you will be subject to random drug testing. You will also need to qualify for respiratory protection and obtain the necessary special program access for aircraft like the F-35.
Comparison Table: Why Join the 419th?
| Feature | Benefit Description |
|---|---|
| Employment Status | Full Federal Competitive Service |
| Military Requirement | Maintain membership in the AF Reserve |
| Training Time | 15 days active duty military leave per year |
| Growth | Work on state-of-the-art stealth technology |
Salary and Benefits
The salary range for this position is $64,572 to $75,341 per year. In addition to a competitive federal paycheck, you receive federal benefits, including retirement planning, health insurance, and paid military leave for your Reserve commitments.
Application Tips
To stand out, ensure your resume is concise—no more than two pages—and clearly lists your hours per week for every position. Because HR will not modify your application, ensure all SF-50s or DD-214s are attached correctly before submission.
Serving as a Composite/Plastic Fabricator is more than a job; it is a commitment to national security. Apply by October 29, 2026, to join the team at Hill AFB.
Why This Composite/Plastic Fabricator Job Matters
Join the elite 419th Maintenance Squadron at Hill AFB and leverage your precision fabrication skills to support advanced 5th-generation aircraft maintenance.
Composite/Plastic Fabricator Job Overview
The Department of the Air Force is seeking a skilled Composite/Plastic Fabricator to serve as an Air Reserve Technician (ART) at Hill AFB, Utah. This role is essential to the 419th Maintenance Squadron's mission, requiring expert knowledge in structural repair, composite materials, and low-observable coatings. As an ART, you will maintain a dual role as a civilian federal employee and a member of the Air Force Reserve, supporting 24/7 operational readiness.
Requirements for Composite/Plastic Fabricator
- Ability to perform the work of a Composite/Plastic Fabricator with little to no supervision (Screen-out element).
- Must maintain active membership in the assigned Air Force Reserve unit.
- Must pass a pre-employment and random drug screening as a Testing Designated Position.
- Must be able to obtain and maintain special program access for specific weapon systems (e.g., F-22, F-35).
- Must possess a valid driver's license for airfield operations.
- Ability to pass a physical examination to wear respiratory protection equipment.
- Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds frequently.
- Must be able to work various shifts and overtime as required to meet mission demands.
Preferred Qualifications for Composite/Plastic Fabricator
- Proven experience in structural sheet metal and composite repair.
- Practical knowledge of low-observable (stealth) technologies and coating applications.
- Expertise in operating metal shop tools including drill presses, punches, and cabinet blasters.
- Strong understanding of EPA and environmental safety regulations regarding hazardous waste.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- âś“Federal civilian employee benefits package
- âś“15 days of military leave with full civilian pay for active duty training
- âś“Retirement and health insurance options
- âś“Training and development opportunities within the Air Force Reserve
- âś“Opportunity to work on cutting-edge 5th-generation aircraft
đź’ˇ How to Apply Composite/Plastic Fabricator Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Composite/Plastic Fabricator Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Review the application questionnaire and prepare your two-page resume.
- Ensure your resume includes hours worked per week and specific dates of employment.
- Upload all required documentation, including SF-50s if you are a current or former federal employee.
- Submit your application package by the closing date of October 29, 2026.
đź’ˇ General Tips
- Keep your resume strictly to two pages; any additional pages will result in disqualification.
- Clearly highlight your experience in composite/structural repair to meet the quality ranking criteria.
- Verify that all documents are uploaded at least an hour before the deadline to allow for virus scanning.
- Ensure your resume explicitly mentions your pay plan, series, and grade if you are a current federal employee.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an Air Reserve Technician (ART)?
An ART is a federal civilian employee who is also required to be an active member of the Air Force Reserve unit where they are assigned, typically requiring one weekend of military training per month.
Is a security clearance required?
Yes, this position requires a Secret security clearance and the ability to attain special program access.
Can I apply if I am currently active duty?
Yes, active duty members may apply. You must submit a certification memo in lieu of a DD-214 if you are within 120 days of your expected separation date.
What if I have never been an ART before?
If you meet the technical requirements for the fabrication work, we will provide the necessary integration training for your Reserve unit responsibilities.
Is there physical labor involved?
Yes, the role requires climbing, reaching, and lifting up to 50 pounds while working in cramped or awkward positions for extended periods.
Job from Headquarters, Air Force Reserve Command
The 419th Maintenance Squadron is part of the Department of the Air Force. Our mission is to provide world-class maintenance for 5th-generation aircraft, ensuring that our fleet remains ready for any global challenge. We value excellence, integrity, and service in all our personnel.