About the opportunity
This National Guard position is for a Surface Maintenance Mechanic-T32 (Position Description Number D1194000) within WI MATES, Wisconsin Army National Guard at Fort McCoy, Wisconsin. As a WG-5801-10 mechanic, you will troubleshoot, repair, maintain, inspect, and overhaul a variety of complex combat, tactical, commercial, and special purpose vehicles and equipment with interconnected mechanical and non-mechanical systems. The role also involves providing technical guidance and specialized team leadership to lower-grade employees.
Salary and benefits
- Paid Time Off (Annual and Sick Leave)
- Paid Training Opportunities
- Paid Time Off for Military Duties
- Flexible Work Scheduling
- Fitness/Work Out Time (3 hours/week)
- 11 Paid Federal Holidays Off
- Promotion and Advancement Opportunities
- Work/Life Balance
- Federal Pension after 5 Years
- TSP Savings Plan (similar to 401K)
- Professional Development and Mentorship Opportunities
Who can apply?
- Must be a member of the National Guard or eligible for immediate membership in the employing state's National Guard
- Compatible military grade and assignment required (Military Grades: E-1 through E-5)
- At least 18 months of specialized experience or training diagnosing, repairing, overhauling, and modifying more complex vehicles, equipment, and complicated systems
- Experience using diagnostic equipment and applying independent judgment to solve unusually complex maintenance and repair problems
- Must be able to obtain and maintain the appropriate security clearance
- Must pass a federal employment background investigation and suitability check
- Must comply with the Domestic Violence Misdemeanor Amendment (Lautenberg Amendment) of 1968
Required documents
- Your resume showing places of employment, titles of positions held (including series and grade if federal employment), dates of employment formatted with Month and Year, and duties performed
When to apply
- Announcement Opening Date: 2026-10-23
- Application Closing Date: 2026-11-12 at 11:59 PM (EST)
How to apply
- Log into your USAJOBS account or create a new one
- Click Apply to access the online application and review your documents
- Complete the online application questionnaire and verify that your resume and required documentation are included
- Complete the Include Personal Information section and submit your application before the deadline
- Check your USAJOBS account to track application status and updates
Additional information
- Male applicants born after 12/31/1959 must be registered under the Military Selective Service Act to be eligible for appointment
- May occasionally be required to work other than normal duty hours or overtime
- Must be able to wear authorized and supplied Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) as duties require
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Extensive hands-on mechanical, diagnostic, and vehicle repair background, particularly with tactical or heavy equipment
- Current or eligible enlisted members of the National Guard looking for a specialized technical role within military logistics and maintenance
- Candidates seeking stable federal civil service employment with comprehensive government benefits, retirement plans, and paid leave
What should you think carefully about?
- Strict military membership requirement: you must be or become a member of the Wisconsin Army National Guard
- Must be able to successfully pass a background investigation and obtain the required security clearance
- Physical demands and working conditions include wearing protective equipment and potential requirements for overtime or non-standard hours
- Location is fixed at Fort McCoy, Wisconsin, requiring local residency or relocation
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This position offers a stable career path for mechanics who want to leverage their technical troubleshooting skills within a structured military and federal civil service framework. It provides secure government employment with federal pension and retirement benefits, making it an excellent opportunity for individuals aiming to build long-term stability while supporting national defense and state guard missions.
Our take
This role is ideal for experienced mechanics with a military background or eligibility for the National Guard who are seeking a secure federal position with strong benefits at Fort McCoy. Candidates who are unwilling or unable to join the National Guard should not apply.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
Official-source verifiedSource: USAJOBS




