WG-3809

Mobile Equipment Metal Mechanic

Federal Wage Grade position repairing and fabricating metal body panels, frames, and structural components on mobile equipment, vehicles, and machinery at federal maintenance facilities.

📊Administrative📁3800

💰WG-3809 Salary Information

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 Location

Source: DoD Civilian Personnel Advisory Service

Qualification Requirements

Official OPM qualification standards for WG-3809

Qualification requirements not yet available for this series.

🎖️Tips for Veterans

  • Translate military experience: Map duties to civilian terminology.
  • Highlight training: Include courses and certifications.
  • Veterans preference: Claim your 5 or 10-point preference.
  • Experience substitution: Military experience may substitute for education.

📝How to Qualify for WG-3809

Step-by-step guide to landing a federal mobile equipment metal mechanic position

  1. 1

    Review Trade/Craft Requirements

    WG positions require demonstrated skill in a specific trade or craft. Review the job announcement for required certifications, licenses, and hands-on experience.

  2. 2

    Document Your Experience

    WG positions are experience-based, not grade-based. Document your years of hands-on trade experience, apprenticeships completed, and journeyman status if applicable.

  3. 3

    Gather Credentials

    Collect your DD-214, trade certifications (welding, electrical, HVAC, etc.), apprenticeship completion certificates, and any specialized licenses required for your trade.

  4. 4

    Build Your Federal Resume

    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.

  5. 5

    Apply on USAJOBS

    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 to Federal Crosswalk

Military jobs that transition to WG-3809

Air Force3E1X3
Match

Metal Worker

Metal mechanic pathway.

Skills:
Sheet MetalHVAC DuctworkFabrication
Entry Grades:
GS-7GS-9GS-10
NavyHT-4920
Match

Hull Technician Supervisor

Metal mechanic supervisor.

Skills:
Hull MaintenanceWelding SupervisionQuality Control
Entry Grades:
GS-9GS-11
NavySW-5615
Match

Steelworker Supervisor

Metal mechanic.

Skills:
Steel ConstructionWelding Supervision
Entry Grades:
GS-10GS-11

💡 Tip:Your unique military experience may qualify you even if your MOS isn't listed.

📋Typical Duties

  • Perform skilled trade work in accordance with established standards, specifications, and safety procedures
  • Operate, maintain, and repair trade-specific equipment, tools, and machinery
  • Read and interpret blueprints, technical manuals, work orders, and specifications
  • Inspect completed work for quality, accuracy, and compliance with requirements
  • Maintain tools, equipment, and work areas in clean, safe, and operational condition
  • Document work performed including time, materials used, and completion status
  • Coordinate with supervisors and other trades on project requirements and schedules
  • Follow all safety protocols including proper use of PPE and hazardous material handling
  • Train and assist lower-grade workers in trade techniques and procedures
  • Requisition materials, parts, and supplies needed to complete assigned work

🎯Key Competencies

Technical Knowledge

Understanding of trade-specific tools, equipment, materials, and techniques required for the position

Manual Dexterity

Physical coordination and skill in using hands and tools to perform precise work

Safety Awareness

Knowledge of workplace safety procedures, OSHA standards, and proper use of personal protective equipment

Problem Solving

Ability to diagnose issues, troubleshoot problems, and determine effective repair solutions

Quality Control

Attention to detail ensuring work meets specifications, standards, and quality requirements

Blueprint Reading

Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, schematics, diagrams, and work orders

Equipment Operation

Proficiency in operating trade-specific machinery, power tools, and specialized equipment

Maintenance Procedures

Knowledge of preventive maintenance, inspection protocols, and equipment care

Communication

Ability to communicate effectively with supervisors, coworkers, and customers about work status

Adaptability

Flexibility to work in various conditions and adjust to changing priorities and assignments

🔑Resume Keywords

metal repairmobile equipmentweldingfabricationbody work

💡 Use these phrases to help ATS systems and human recruiters find your qualifications.

Frequently Asked Questions about WG-3809

What is a Mobile Equipment Metal Mechanic?

A Mobile Equipment Metal Mechanic (WG-3809) repairs and fabricates metal body panels, frames, and structural components on mobile equipment, vehicles, and machinery at federal maintenance facilities. They restore damaged military and government vehicles to serviceable condition.

How much does a federal Mobile Equipment Metal Mechanic make?

WG-3809 positions are paid under the Federal Wage System based on local prevailing rates. Journeyman wages (WG-10/11) typically range $27-$40 per hour depending on locality. Annual earnings range $56,000-$83,000. Combat vehicle repair specialists may earn higher rates.

What are the requirements for WG-3809 positions?

WG-3809 requires skill in vehicle body repair and metal fabrication. Qualifications include panel straightening, welding, cutting, frame repair, and ability to restore damaged vehicles. Knowledge of various vehicle types and metal repair techniques is essential.

Can military experience substitute for education in WG-3809?

Yes, military vehicle repair experience directly qualifies. Army 91B (Wheeled Vehicle Mechanic), 91A (Abrams Tank System Maintainer), or any MOS involving vehicle body/hull repair provides relevant experience. Combat damage repair skills are particularly valued.

What is the career progression for Mobile Equipment Metal Mechanic?

Mobile Equipment Metal Mechanics progress through skill levels to journeyman (WG-10/11) and lead positions. Career advancement includes specializing in armored vehicles, transitioning to WG-3806 (Sheet Metal), or supervisory roles in vehicle maintenance operations.

How do I apply for WG-3809 jobs on USAJOBS?

Search USAJOBS for 'Mobile Equipment Metal' or series '3809.' Positions exist at vehicle maintenance facilities, depots, and motor pools. Highlight your body repair experience, welding skills, and equipment knowledge. Veterans receive preference.

Ready to Apply for WG-3809?

Create a tailored federal resume that meets OPM standards.