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This standard is to be used for grading nonsupervisory jobs which involve the operation of gasoline- or diesel-powered engineering and construction equipment with wheeled or crawler type traction. Jobs covered are those involving the operation of equipment such as graders, tractors with bulldozer or angledozer blades, front-end loaders, backhoes, trench diggers, and large industrial tractors with pan or scraper attachments. This equipment is used to perform such functions as cutting, moving, dig
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-5716
This standard is to be used for grading nonsupervisory jobs which involve the operation of gasoline- or diesel-powered engineering and construction equipment with wheeled or crawler type traction. Jobs covered are those involving the operation of equipment such as graders, tractors with bulldozer or angledozer blades, front-end loaders, backhoes, trench diggers, and large industrial tractors with pan or scraper attachments. This equipment is used to perform such functions as cutting, moving, digging, grading, and rolling earth, sand, stone, and other materials, and to maintain ditches, road shoulders and beds, and firelines.
is used by the operators in constantly reaching, bending, turning, and moving hands, arms, feet, and legs to handle different sets of controls to operate the equipment and attachments. Considerable strain is caused by the constant vibration of the equipment and the jerking and jolting from operating over rough surfaces. Because of the location of some of the controls and attachments, the operators are frequently required to work in awkward or strained positions.
Step-by-step guide to landing a federal engineering equipment operating 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-5716
Engineering equipment pathway. Heavy equipment operation.
Engineering equipment pathway. Paving.
Engineering equipment 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 Engineering Equipment Operator (WG-5716) operates gasoline or diesel-powered construction equipment with wheeled or crawler traction including graders, bulldozers, front-end loaders, backhoes, trench diggers, and scrapers for cutting, moving, digging, and leveling operations.
Federal Engineering Equipment Operators (WG-5716) are paid under the Federal Wage System based on local prevailing rates. Journeyman wages (WG-10/11) typically range $28-$42 per hour. Annual earnings range $58,000-$87,000. Heavy equipment specialists earn premium rates.
WG-5716 requires demonstrated skill operating multiple types of heavy construction equipment. Qualifications include safe equipment operation, grade work proficiency, understanding of construction techniques, and ability to work from stakes and blueprints.
Absolutely. Military heavy equipment experience directly qualifies. Army 12N (Horizontal Construction Engineer), Seabee Equipment Operators (EO), and combat engineer MOSs involving bulldozers, graders, and earthmoving equipment provide exactly the skills needed.
Engineering Equipment Operators progress to journeyman (WG-10/11) and lead operator positions. Career paths include equipment supervisor, construction project management support, or transition to GS construction inspection or engineering technician roles.
Search USAJOBS for 'Engineering Equipment' or 'Heavy Equipment Operator' or series '5716.' Positions exist at Corps of Engineers, military construction, and base maintenance. Highlight your equipment certifications and types operated. Veterans receive strong preference.
Create a tailored federal resume that meets OPM standards.