WG-4604

Wood Working

Federal Wage Grade position performing general woodworking and carpentry tasks including framing, finishing, and repair work at federal buildings, military installations, and government construction projects.

📊Administrative📁4600

💰WG-4604 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-4604

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-4604

Step-by-step guide to landing a federal wood working 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-4604

Army12W
Match

Carpentry and Masonry Specialist

WG-4604 Wood Working is the federal carpentry track. Covers framing, finish, millwork, and cabinetry at DoD installations, USACE, NAVFAC, VA medical centers, and Park Service facilities. Direct path for 12Ws on the carpentry side.

Skills:
Rough and finish carpentryFramingDrywall installationPlan reading
Entry Grades:
WG-8WG-9WG-10
Air Force3E3X1
Match

Structural

Carpentry from prefab and permanent structure work maps to the WG-4604 Wood Working trade.

Skills:
FramingRough and finish carpentryDrawing interpretation
Entry Grades:
WG-7WG-8WG-9

💡 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

woodworkingcarpentrycabinet makingconstructionwoodfederal wage gradeblue collar federal jobstrade jobs governmentskilled trades federaltechnicianmaintenance worker

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

Frequently Asked Questions about WG-4604

What is a Wood Worker?

A Wood Worker (WG-4604) performs general woodworking and carpentry tasks including framing, finishing, and repair work at federal buildings, military installations, and government construction projects. They build and repair wood structures, forms, and fixtures.

How much does a federal Wood Worker make?

Federal Wood Workers (WG-4604) are paid under the Federal Wage System based on local prevailing rates. Journeyman wages (WG-9/10) typically range $25-$38 per hour depending on locality. Annual earnings range $52,000-$79,000.

What are the requirements for WG-4604 positions?

WG-4604 requires demonstrated carpentry and woodworking skills. Qualifications include framing, finishing, cabinet installation, blueprint reading, and safe operation of power tools. General construction knowledge across multiple wood applications is essential.

Can military experience substitute for education in WG-4604?

Yes, military carpentry experience directly qualifies. Army 12W (Carpentry and Masonry Specialist), Seabee Builder (BU) rating, and combat engineer MOSs with construction duties provide directly relevant experience for federal woodworking positions.

What is the career progression for Wood Working?

Wood Workers progress from helper through journeyman (WG-9/10) levels. Career advancement includes lead carpenter, supervisory positions, or specialization in WG-4605 (Wood Crafting) for fine woodwork. Facilities maintenance management is another path.

How do I apply for WG-4604 jobs on USAJOBS?

Search USAJOBS for 'Wood Worker' or 'Carpenter' or series '4604.' Positions exist at federal construction projects, military bases, and government buildings. Highlight your carpentry experience, tool proficiency, and construction background. Veterans receive preference.

Ready to Apply for WG-4604?

Create a tailored federal resume that meets OPM standards.