Tractor Operating
This standard is for use in grading nonsupervisory work involved in operating wheel-mounted tractors and towed or attached equipment. The work performed typically includes transporting materials and equipment, towing aircraft, digging, loading, planting, spraying, fertilizing, harvesting, clearing, or mowing. Examples of the towed and attached equipment include carts, sweepers, trailers, towbars, plows, brush hogs, planters, mowers, combines, spreaders, sprayers, backhoes, and front-end loading
💰WG-5705 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 LocationSource: DoD Civilian Personnel Advisory Service
Qualification Requirements
Official OPM qualification standards for WG-5705
Tractor Operating
Federal Wage System Position
Work Performed
This standard is for use in grading nonsupervisory work involved in operating wheel-mounted tractors and towed or attached equipment. The work performed typically includes transporting materials and equipment, towing aircraft, digging, loading, planting, spraying, fertilizing, harvesting, clearing, or mowing. Examples of the towed and attached equipment include carts, sweepers, trailers, towbars, plows, brush hogs, planters, mowers, combines, spreaders, sprayers, backhoes, and front-end loading devices.
Skill and Knowledge Requirements
in attaching the towbar and manipulating the tractor steering to maneuver the aircraft around obstacles. Operators use skill in backing the towed aircraft into position along side of or in between other aircraft with the assistance of spotters. This assistance is limited due to the size of aircraft towed at this level. Most sections of the aircraft are within the sight of the operator.
Physical Effort
while performing duties such as operating tractors and uncoupling and making couplings between tractors and towed vehicles. The work requires frequent stooping, bending, reaching, and arm and leg movement to operate tractor controls. Operators frequently lift and carry parts and equipment weighing up to 23 kilograms (50 pounds). Occasionally, they move heavier items with assistance of other workers or mechanical lifting devices.
Working Conditions
at this level are similar to those described at the
🎖️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-5705
Step-by-step guide to landing a federal tractor operating position
- 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
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
Gather Credentials
Collect your DD-214, trade certifications (welding, electrical, HVAC, etc.), apprenticeship completion certificates, and any specialized licenses required for your trade.
- 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
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-5705
Assault Amphibious Vehicle (AAV) Crewman
WG-5705 Tractor Operating is an adjacent operating trade for those moving into yard, depot, and grounds equipment.
Pavements and Construction Equipment
WG-5705 Tractor Operating covers towed and tractor-mounted equipment work that overlaps airfield and site operations.
Bridge Crewmember
WG-5705 Tractor Operating is an adjacent trades match for veterans who ran wheeled and tracked equipment in support of bridging operations.
💡 Tip:Your unique military experience may qualify you even if your MOS isn't listed.
📋Typical Duties
- •Perform tractor operating tasks as assigned
- •Follow safety procedures and regulations
- •Maintain and operate tools and equipment
- •Complete work orders and documentation
- •Coordinate with team members and supervisors
🎯Key Competencies
🔑Resume Keywords
💡 Use these phrases to help ATS systems and human recruiters find your qualifications.
Quick Links
Grade Levels
Typical grades for Federal Wage System positions
❓Frequently Asked Questions about WG-5705
What is a federal Tractor Operator?
A federal Tractor Operator (WG-5705) operates wheel-mounted tractors with towed or attached equipment including carts, sweepers, plows, mowers, backhoes, and front-end loaders. Work includes transporting materials, towing aircraft, digging, mowing, and agricultural operations.
How much does a federal Tractor Operator make?
Federal Tractor Operators (WG-5705) are paid under the Federal Wage System based on local prevailing rates. Typical wages range $18-$30 per hour depending on equipment complexity and locality. Annual earnings range $37,000-$62,000.
What are the requirements for WG-5705 positions?
WG-5705 requires skill operating tractors with various attachments. Qualifications include maneuvering with towed equipment, aircraft towing precision, operating attachments like backhoes and mowers, and maintaining safe operations around obstacles and personnel.
Can military experience substitute for education in WG-5705?
Yes, military equipment operation experience qualifies. Combat engineers, Seabees, motor transport operators with tractor duties, and airfield operations personnel who towed aircraft have directly relevant experience for federal tractor operator positions.
What is the career progression for Tractor Operating?
Tractor Operators progress based on equipment variety and attachment complexity. Career paths include heavy equipment operator (WG-5716 series), grounds maintenance supervisor, or airfield operations support. Aircraft towing specialists have specialized advancement.
How do I apply for WG-5705 jobs on USAJOBS?
Search USAJOBS for 'Tractor Operator' or series '5705.' Positions exist at airfields, agricultural facilities, and installations with grounds maintenance. Highlight your equipment variety experience and safe operation record. Veterans receive preference.
Ready to Apply for WG-5705?
Create a tailored federal resume that meets OPM standards.