Automotive Mechanic
This standard is used to grade all nonsupervisory jobs involved in the maintenance, repair, and overhaul of combustion-powered automotive vehicles, over-the-road trucks, and comparable vehicles, such as passenger cars, pickup trucks, buses, semitrailer truck tractors, warehouse tractors, farm tractors, forklifts, motorcycles, light combat vehicles such as jeeps and trucks, and other vehicles with similar characteristics, including their gasoline and diesel engines and other mechanical, hydraulic
💰WG-5823 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-5823
Automotive Mechanic
Federal Wage System Position
Work Performed
This standard is used to grade all nonsupervisory jobs involved in the maintenance, repair, and overhaul of combustion-powered automotive vehicles, over-the-road trucks, and comparable vehicles, such as passenger cars, pickup trucks, buses, semitrailer truck tractors, warehouse tractors, farm tractors, forklifts, motorcycles, light combat vehicles such as jeeps and trucks, and other vehicles with similar characteristics, including their gasoline and diesel engines and other mechanical, hydraulic, electrical, and electronically controlled systems.
🎖️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-5823
Step-by-step guide to landing a federal automotive mechanic 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-5823
Fuel and Electrical Systems Technician
3524 fuel and electrical work maps directly to WG-5823 Automotive Mechanic, the federal trade for diagnosing and repairing wheeled-vehicle fuel, electrical, and drivetrain systems. Qualification is by demonstrated trade ability, which your component-repair record covers.
Wheeled Vehicle Mechanic
Most direct federal match. WG-5823 Automotive Mechanic positions at Army depots, USPS, GSA Fleet, and other federal agencies. Military vehicle experience qualifies at WG-8 to WG-10 immediately. Veterans Preference is highly effective for these positions.
Stryker Systems Maintainer
WG-5823 Automotive Mechanic fits the lighter wheeled fleet side of Stryker maintenance and is a common entry point into federal vehicle shops.
💡 Tip:Your unique military experience may qualify you even if your MOS isn't listed.
📋Typical Duties
- •Perform automotive mechanic 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-5823
What is an Automotive Mechanic?
An Automotive Mechanic (WG-5823) performs maintenance, repair, and overhaul of combustion-powered vehicles including passenger cars, trucks, buses, forklifts, motorcycles, and light combat vehicles. Work includes diagnosing mechanical problems, repairing engines, transmissions, and hydraulic systems, and ensuring vehicles meet safety and performance standards. This is a skilled trade position requiring comprehensive automotive knowledge.
How much does a federal Automotive Mechanic make?
Federal Automotive Mechanics are paid under the WG pay system with locality adjustments. WG-5823 positions typically range from WG-8 to WG-11 based on skill level and assignment complexity. Journey-level mechanics commonly earn WG-10 rates. Check DCPAS wage schedules for your area's specific hourly rates, which include shift differentials when applicable.
What are the requirements for WG-5823 positions?
WG-5823 positions require demonstrated journeyman-level skill in automotive repair including engine diagnostics, transmission work, brake systems, and electrical troubleshooting. Entry may require completion of automotive training programs or equivalent experience. Higher grades require proficiency across multiple vehicle systems and ability to work from technical manuals with minimal supervision.
Can military experience substitute for education in WG-5823?
Absolutely. Military automotive mechanics have directly transferable skills for WG-5823. Army 91B/91M, Marine Corps 3521, Navy AS/GSM, Air Force 2T3X1, and Coast Guard MK ratings provide excellent preparation. Your military training on tactical vehicles, Humvees, and fleet maintenance demonstrates the diagnostic and repair competencies federal positions require.
What is the career progression for Automotive Mechanics?
Automotive Mechanics advance from WG-8 (developmental) through WG-10 (journey level) to WG-11 (senior). Specialists can pursue WG-5803 Heavy Mobile Equipment Mechanic for larger vehicles. Work Leader (WL) and Supervisor (WS) positions offer management advancement. ASE certifications and specialized training in diesel, hybrid, or electric vehicles enhance career opportunities.
How do I apply for WG-5823 jobs on USAJOBS?
Search USAJOBS for "Automotive Mechanic" or "5823" to find openings at military bases, VA medical centers, GSA facilities, and other federal installations. Detail your specific repair experience—engines, transmissions, electrical systems—on your federal resume. Include any ASE certifications and list the types of vehicles you've worked on. Veterans' preference applies.
Ready to Apply for WG-5823?
Create a tailored federal resume that meets OPM standards.