Launch Your Career: Become an Ordnance Equipment Helper with the U.S. Coast Guard
Are you looking for a hands-on career where your technical talent directly supports national security? The U.S. Coast Guard is currently hiring an Ordnance Equipment Helper at their industrial site in Glen Burnie, Maryland. This role is a unique gateway for individuals who are mechanically inclined, detail-oriented, and ready to work in a high-stakes environment.
About the U.S. Coast Guard Industrial Department
The Industrial Department’s Electro Group in Baltimore and Glen Burnie provides essential support to the Coast Guard’s maritime mission. By maintaining, repairing, and installing advanced weapons and decoy systems, this team ensures that the Coast Guard can effectively protect the nation's ports, waterways, and coastal interests. As a civilian member of this team, you are not just an employee—you are a vital part of the fleet’s readiness.
What You Will Do
As an Ordnance Equipment Helper, you will be the backbone of the technical team. Your primary role is to assist journeyman mechanics in tasks that require extra support, while also handling less complex maintenance duties independently. Your daily responsibilities will include:
- Operating common hand and power tools to support the maintenance of the MK 75 Gun Weapon System and CIWS 20mm systems.
- Connecting complex hydraulic, electrical, and mechanical weapon systems to test stands for diagnostic evaluation.
- Performing pre-testing on components to ensure they are compatible with complete weapon systems.
- Assisting in the maintenance of Decoy Launching systems like the Nulka and MK137.
Comparison of Requirements
| Requirement | Status | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Citizenship | Mandatory | Must be U.S. Citizen |
| Drug Testing | Required | Pre-employment test mandatory |
| Security Clearance | Required | Secret level clearance |
| Resume Length | Restricted | Max 2 pages |
Requirements for Success
To be considered for this role, you must demonstrate the ability to perform the work without needing excessive supervision. While previous experience is highly valued, the hiring team focuses on your aptitude for learning and executing precise technical practices. Key requirements include:
- A willingness to undergo a background investigation for a Secret clearance.
- Successful completion of a pre-employment medical exam.
- Ability to read blueprints, interpret specifications, and utilize measurement tools effectively.
Salary and Benefits
This position offers an hourly rate between $24.50 and $28.58. Beyond the paycheck, employees working for the Department of Homeland Security enjoy a comprehensive benefits package that is designed to support long-term professional and personal growth:
- Retirement: Access to the Thrift Savings Plan, similar to a 401(k).
- Health: Competitive health, dental, and vision insurance options.
- Work-Life Balance: Paid federal holidays and generous personal leave.
- Development: Tuition reimbursement programs and ongoing professional training.
Application Tips
Federal applications can be daunting, but they don't have to be. To increase your chances:
- Edit relentlessly: Ensure your resume is exactly two pages or shorter. Anything longer will cause an automated rejection.
- Use clear data: Include specific dates (mm/yy) and the number of hours worked per week for every position listed.
- Leverage volunteer experience: If you have volunteer experience that involves technical work or tool usage, document it clearly—it qualifies as relevant experience.
This is more than just a job; it is a chance to provide meaningful support to the U.S. Coast Guard's mission. If you are ready to apply your technical skills in an industrial environment, submit your application today.
Why This Ordnance Equipment Helper Job Matters
Launch a mission-critical career with the U.S. Coast Guard, where your technical skills support the maritime safety and security of our nation.
Ordnance Equipment Helper Job Overview
The U.S. Coast Guard is seeking a dedicated Ordnance Equipment Helper to join the Industrial Department’s Electro Group in Glen Burnie, Maryland. This role offers an exceptional opportunity to gain hands-on experience maintaining and repairing advanced naval weapon systems. You will work alongside experienced journeyman mechanics to ensure the readiness of critical defense equipment, including gun and decoy launching systems. This is a term appointment that offers stability, professional growth, and the chance to contribute directly to the safeguarding of American maritime interests.
Requirements for Ordnance Equipment Helper
- U.S. Citizenship
- Must be registered with or exempt from Selective Service
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance
- Must pass a pre-employment drug screening
- Must possess or be able to obtain a valid state driver's license
- Ability to successfully complete a pre-employment medical examination
- Submission of a resume no longer than two pages
Preferred Qualifications for Ordnance Equipment Helper
- Experience with power and hand tools
- Proficiency in reading technical blueprints and schematics
- Experience with hydraulic, electrical, or mechanical weapon system maintenance
- Knowledge of industrial technical practices and measurement instruments
- Previous work with gun weapon systems or decoy launching equipment
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive hourly salary
- ✓Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
- ✓Federal retirement plan and Thrift Savings Plan (401k equivalent)
- ✓Paid federal holidays and personal leave
- ✓Employee Assistance Program
- ✓Tuition reimbursement opportunities
- ✓Flexible work schedules
- ✓Access to fitness centers and wellness programs
💡 How to Apply Ordnance Equipment Helper Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Ordnance Equipment Helper Job
- Log into or create your account on USAJOBS.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less.
- Review the self-assessment questionnaire to ensure you meet the baseline criteria.
- Gather supporting documentation, such as DD-214s or college transcripts if applicable.
- Submit your complete application packet through the online portal before the closing date.
- Monitor your status through the 'Track this Application' feature in your dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume concise; any submission exceeding two pages will be automatically disqualified.
- Clearly document your volunteer work if you lack extensive paid experience; it counts toward your qualifications.
- Ensure your resume includes start/end dates and the average number of hours worked per week.
- Verify that all uploaded files are legible; unreadable documents may lead to your removal from consideration.
- Do not include personal identifiers such as your Social Security Number or photos of yourself.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the duration of this appointment?
This is a term appointment not to exceed 13 months, with the possibility of extension up to a total of 4 years.
What type of security clearance is required?
This position requires the incumbent to obtain and maintain a Secret-level security clearance.
Is telework available for this position?
Due to the technical and hands-on nature of the work at the industrial site, this position is not eligible for telework.