Become an Aircraft Machinist with the Air National Guard
Are you looking for a career that blends high-level technical skill with service to your country? The Air National Guard is currently hiring a Machinist (WG-3414-11) to join the 130th Airlift Wing in Charleston, West Virginia. This role is essential to the success of our flying missions, ensuring that aircraft parts are fabricated and repaired to the most exact standards.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will work in the Aircraft Metals Technology Shop. Your primary duties include:
- Precision Machining: Operating both manual and CNC machine tools to create complex aircraft components.
- Advanced Welding: Performing welding on ferrous and non-ferrous metals, including aluminum, titanium, and magnesium.
- Design & Layout: Interpreting blueprints and technical manuals to fabricate special tools, jigs, and fixtures.
- Quality Control: Using precision measurement tools like micrometers and calipers to ensure parts meet tolerances as tight as 0.0005 inches.
Comparison: Manual vs. CNC Machining
| Feature | Manual Machining | CNC Machining |
|---|---|---|
| Control | Hand-operated wheels/cranks | Computer-programmed software |
| Precision | High (Operator dependent) | Extreme (Automated) |
| Complexity | Simple components/repairs | High-tolerance/complex geometries |
Requirements
To be considered for this position, applicants must:
- Hold (or be eligible to hold) military rank between E2 and E6.
- Possess strong machining experience.
- Be able to pass a background check for a Secret security clearance.
- Submit all required documents, including your resume and military service proof, via USAJOBS.
Salary Overview
The hourly pay for this position ranges from $32.57 to $38.00 per hour, depending on qualifications and grade level requirements.
Benefits
Employees in this position enjoy the benefits of federal employment, including stable scheduling, federal health and retirement benefits, and the opportunity to work with cutting-edge aerospace technology.
Application Tips
- Customize Your Resume: Do not copy the job description. Give specific examples of machining projects you have completed.
- Verify Rank: Ensure your current military rank is explicitly listed.
- Early Submission: Don't wait until the closing date. Upload all documents early to allow time for system processing.
If you have a passion for metalwork and want to support the vital mission of the Air National Guard, this is the perfect opportunity. Apply today via the USAJOBS portal before the window closes on November 27, 2026.
Why This Title 32 Machinist Wg-3414-11 Job Matters
Launch your career as a precision Machinist with the Air National Guard—where elite technical skills meet mission-critical aerospace support.
Title 32 Machinist Wg-3414-11 Job Overview
The 130th Airlift Wing is seeking a skilled Machinist to join our Aircraft Metals Technology Shop in Charleston, West Virginia. In this Title 32 Dual Status Technician role, you will play a pivotal part in the fabrication, repair, and modification of complex aircraft components and specialized support equipment. This position combines traditional machining with CNC technology and advanced welding processes, ensuring our fleet remains operational and mission-ready.
Requirements for Title 32 Machinist Wg-3414-11
- Must be a member of the West Virginia National Guard (or willing to join).
- Military grade between E2 and E6 (or provide memorandum for voluntary reduction).
- Demonstrated experience in machining operations including drill presses, shapers, and planers.
- Ability to interpret technical blueprints and advanced shop mathematics.
- Must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
- Completion of the online occupational questionnaire.
Preferred Qualifications for Title 32 Machinist Wg-3414-11
- Experience with CNC programming and operation.
- Certification as an aircraft welder.
- Proficiency in advanced trigonometric shop calculations.
- Experience in testing metal hardness and tensile strength.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- âś“Federal Excepted Service benefits package
- âś“Opportunities for professional development
- âś“Mission-focused work environment
- âś“Eligibility for potential recruitment incentives
đź’ˇ How to Apply Title 32 Machinist Wg-3414-11 Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Title 32 Machinist Wg-3414-11 Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume that specifically highlights your machining experience (limit to 2 pages).
- Complete the online Occupational Questionnaire via the USAJOBS portal.
- Submit all required documentation, including military rank proof and transcripts if applicable.
- Monitor your application status through the USAJOBS dashboard.
đź’ˇ General Tips
- Ensure your current military rank and pay grade are clearly listed on your resume.
- Use your own words to describe your experience—do not copy the job description.
- If you are outside the E2-E6 grade range, ensure your memorandum for rank reduction is attached.
- Submit all documents electronically before the midnight deadline on the closing date.
- Double-check that your resume explicitly details your experience with CNC and manual machine tools.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Title 32 Dual Status Technician?
This position requires the employee to be a member of the National Guard and maintain their military status as a condition of their civilian employment.
Can I submit my application via email or fax?
No. All applications must be submitted electronically through the USAJOBS website.
What happens if I forget a required document?
Missing required documents will result in an automatic ineligible rating and your application will not be referred to the hiring manager.
Is a security clearance required?
*A: Yes, this position requires a Secret clearance.*
Can I apply if I am not in the WV National Guard?
*A: Yes, candidates willing to join the WV National Guard as a condition of employment may apply.*
Job from Air National Guard Units
The 130th Airlift Wing (130 AW/MXS) is a proud component of the Department of the Air Force. We provide critical support to our state and nation through tactical airlift operations. As a Title 32 Dual Status Technician, you will serve in a civilian capacity while maintaining your membership in the National Guard, making this a unique "dual-role" career path.