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Materials Examining and Identifying
This standard is used to grade nonsupervisory work involved in the identification, examination, classification, acceptance, and disposition of materials and equipment. Materials examiners and identifiers determine physical condition, adherence to product specifications, and equipment defects, utilizing shipping documents, contracts, catalogs, drawings, and related documents. The work setting is usually within a warehouse facility, primarily in a receiving or shipping area, or in a property reuti
What WG-6912 pays
Federal Wage System pay is set by local prevailing wage surveys, so it moves with the wage area rather than a national table.
Wage Grade rates are published per wage area rather than nationally, so the number that matters is the one for the installation you are applying to.
Source: DoD Civilian Personnel Advisory Service wage schedules.
Qualification requirements
OPM's standard for WG-6912, as written.
Materials Examining and Identifying
Federal Wage System Position
Work Performed
This standard is used to grade nonsupervisory work involved in the identification, examination, classification, acceptance, and disposition of materials and equipment. Materials examiners and identifiers determine physical condition, adherence to product specifications, and equipment defects, utilizing shipping documents, contracts, catalogs, drawings, and related documents. The work setting is usually within a warehouse facility, primarily in a receiving or shipping area, or in a property reutilization and disposal facility.
What this means if you served
- Write the duties, not the billet. OPM credits military experience on the work performed, and does not use rank or pay to judge specialized experience.
- Put the training and certifications you earned in service on the page. They count here.
- Claim your veterans preference on the application. It is not applied for you.
- No positive education requirement here, so qualifying experience can stand in for the education.
How to qualify for WG-6912
1Review 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.
2Document 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.
3Gather Credentials
Collect your DD-214, trade certifications (welding, electrical, HVAC, etc.), apprenticeship completion certificates, and any specialized licenses required for your trade.
4Build Your Federal Resume
Two pages, the same USAJOBS limit that has applied since 27 September 2025. Lead with hands-on trade experience: the tools and equipment you ran, safety training, the projects you finished, and hours worked per week.
5Apply 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.
Typical duties
- Perform materials examining and identifying 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
Ability to follow safety procedures and regulations
Knowledge of tools and equipment for the trade
Skill in performing physical tasks requiring manual dexterity
Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Ability to read and interpret instructions and procedures
Words the announcement will use
Use the ones your record actually supports. A rater is matching your experience against the specialized experience statement, and a keyword with nothing behind it does not survive that.
Questions about WG-6912
What is a Materials Examiner and Identifier?
A Materials Examiner and Identifier (WG-6912) determines the condition, classification, and disposition of materials and equipment at federal supply facilities. Work involves examining items against specifications, using shipping documents and catalogs to verify identification, and determining whether materials are acceptable, repairable, or should be disposed. This quality control role ensures accurate inventory and proper material classification.
How much does a federal Materials Examiner make?
Federal Materials Examiners and Identifiers are paid under the WG system with locality adjustments. WG-6912 positions typically range from WG-5 to WG-9 based on examination complexity and material types. Higher grades handle technical equipment requiring specialized knowledge. Check DCPAS wage schedules for specific hourly rates in your locality.
What are the requirements for WG-6912 positions?
WG-6912 positions require ability to examine materials for condition and adherence to specifications, use technical documents for identification, and make disposition decisions. Candidates must read blueprints, catalogs, and contracts accurately. Higher grades require knowledge of specific equipment categories, testing procedures, and ability to identify defects in complex items.
Can military experience substitute for education in WG-6912?
Yes, military supply and quality assurance experience transfers directly to WG-6912. Army 92A, Navy LS, Air Force 2S0X1, and Marine Corps 3051 with experience inspecting and classifying equipment have relevant skills. Your experience identifying military equipment condition, processing turn-ins, and verifying specifications against documentation is exactly what these positions require.
What is the career progression for Materials Examiners?
Materials Examiners advance from WG-5 through WG-9 based on examination complexity and material expertise. Senior examiners handle high-value or technical equipment. Related paths include WG-6907 Materials Handler or GS Quality Assurance Specialist (1910) for technical inspection roles. Work Leader (WL) positions lead examination teams.
How do I apply for WG-6912 jobs on USAJOBS?
Search USAJOBS for "Materials Examining" or "6912" to find positions at military depots, DLA distribution centers, and federal property disposal offices. Emphasize your experience inspecting equipment, using technical documentation, and making classification decisions. Detail your knowledge of specific equipment categories. Veterans' preference applies.
Ready to apply for WG-6912?
A rater matches your record against the announcement's specialized experience statement, inside two pages. BMR writes that shape from your own experience: competency headers, real scope, hours per week, and the supervisor detail the rater checks.