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This standard covers nonsupervisory work involved in installing, testing, repairing, and maintaining high voltage electric power-controlling equipment and/or distribution lines. The work requires knowledge of electrical principles, procedures, materials, and safety standards governing electrical systems above 600 volts. In addition, the work requires general mechanical skills and knowledge, and in some cases may require knowledge of electronic principles as they pertain to electronic control cir
Federal Wage System Pay
Federal Wage Grade (WG) pay varies by geographic location and is determined by local prevailing wage surveys.
Look Up WG Pay by LocationSource: DoD Civilian Personnel Advisory Service
Official OPM qualification standards for WG-2810
This standard covers nonsupervisory work involved in installing, testing, repairing, and maintaining high voltage electric power-controlling equipment and/or distribution lines. The work requires knowledge of electrical principles, procedures, materials, and safety standards governing electrical systems above 600 volts. In addition, the work requires general mechanical skills and knowledge, and in some cases may require knowledge of electronic principles as they pertain to electronic control circuitry. In some situations, the work includes testing, repairing, and maintaining electric-generating equipment in co-generation facilities. This standard cancels and supersedes the Job Grading Standard for Electrician (High Voltage), 2810, issued in June 1973.
Step-by-step guide to landing a federal electrician (aircraft) position
WG positions require demonstrated skill in a specific trade or craft. Review the job announcement for required certifications, licenses, and hands-on experience.
WG positions are experience-based, not grade-based. Document your years of hands-on trade experience, apprenticeships completed, and journeyman status if applicable.
Collect your DD-214, trade certifications (welding, electrical, HVAC, etc.), apprenticeship completion certificates, and any specialized licenses required for your trade.
Create a detailed federal resume highlighting your hands-on trade experience, tools and equipment operated, safety training, and specific projects completed. Include hours worked per week.
Search for WG positions in your trade specialty, carefully answer assessment questions about your skill level and experience, and submit before the closing date.
Military jobs that transition to WG-2810
Aircraft electrician pathway.
Aircraft electrician pathway.
💡 Tip: Your unique military experience may qualify you even if your MOS isn't listed.
💡 Use these phrases to help ATS systems and human recruiters find your qualifications.
Typical grades for Federal Wage System positions
An Aircraft Electrician/High Voltage Electrician (WG-2810) installs, tests, repairs, and maintains high voltage (600+ volts) electric power-controlling equipment and distribution lines. They work on aircraft electrical systems requiring knowledge of electrical principles governing high voltage systems, plus electronic control circuitry.
WG-2810 positions are paid under the Federal Wage System with premium rates for high voltage work. Journeyman wages (WG-11/12) typically range $32-$48 per hour depending on locality. Annual earnings range $67,000-$100,000. High voltage specialists command premium rates due to hazardous conditions.
WG-2810 requires knowledge of electrical principles, procedures, materials, and safety standards for systems above 600 volts. Qualifications include high voltage system experience, understanding of power distribution, electronic control circuits, and in some cases, generator/co-generation equipment.
Yes, military high voltage and aircraft electrical experience qualifies. MOSs like Navy EM (Electrician's Mate), Air Force 3E0X2 (Electric Power Production), Army 91D (Power-Generation Equipment Repairer), or aviation electrical ratings provide directly transferable skills.
High Voltage Electricians progress to journeyman (WG-11/12) and lead positions. This is a specialized, high-paying trade with limited advancement within the series but strong potential for supervisory roles, GS engineering technician positions, or power plant management careers.
Search USAJOBS for 'High Voltage Electrician' or 'Electrician Aircraft' or series '2810.' Positions exist at power plants, air logistics centers, shipyards, and large installations. Emphasize your high voltage certifications, safety record, and distribution system experience. Veterans receive preference.
Create a tailored federal resume that meets OPM standards.