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Aircraft Mechanical Parts Repair
This standard covers nonsupervisory work involved in the repair, modification, overhaul/ recondition, and test of mechanical parts and components removed from fixed and rotary wing aircraft such as control columns, transmissions, gear boxes, landing gear components, clutch assemblies, rotor head assemblies and blades, constant speed drives, mechanical actuators, wheel and rotor brake assemblies, cargo hooks, engine controls, cable tension regulators, accessory drive gear boxes, cargo winches, tu
What WG-8840 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-8840, as written.
Aircraft Mechanical Parts Repair
Federal Wage System Position
Work Performed
This standard covers nonsupervisory work involved in the repair, modification, overhaul/ recondition, and test of mechanical parts and components removed from fixed and rotary wing aircraft such as control columns, transmissions, gear boxes, landing gear components, clutch assemblies, rotor head assemblies and blades, constant speed drives, mechanical actuators, wheel and rotor brake assemblies, cargo hooks, engine controls, cable tension regulators, accessory drive gear boxes, cargo winches, turbine blades, and compressor vanes. The work requires knowledge of the mechanical relationships and operational characteristics of mechanical parts and components being repaired or reworked. The work does not require a substantive knowledge of aircraft systems and their interrelationships.
Physical Effort
described at the grade 7 level,
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-8840
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.
Military jobs that map to this series
Aircraft Components Repairer
Aircraft parts repair pathway.
Skills that carry over: Component Repair, Safety Equipment, Inspection, Quality Control, Documentation.
Usually opens at: WG-9, WG-10, WG-11.
UH-60 Helicopter Repairer
Aircraft Mechanical Parts Repair (WG). Component-level repair and overhaul. 15Ts with experience in phase maintenance component R&R and bench repair qualify. Depot maintenance facilities are the primary employer.
Skills that carry over: Component repair, Parts fabrication, Bench maintenance, Technical inspection, Blueprint reading.
Usually opens at: WG-8, WG-10, WG-11.
Aviation Structural Mechanic (Safety Equipment)
WG-8840 Aircraft Mechanical Parts Repair fits AMEs who overhauled valves, regulators, and component assemblies.
Skills that carry over: Component overhaul, Mechanical repair, Precision assembly, Bench testing.
Usually opens at: WG-08, WG-10.
Your record can qualify you even when your code is not on this list. The crosswalk is a starting point, not the gate.
Typical duties
- Perform aircraft mechanical parts repair 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-8840
What is an Aircraft Mechanical Parts Repairer?
An Aircraft Mechanical Parts Repairer (WG-8840) repairs, modifies, overhauls, and tests mechanical components removed from fixed and rotary wing aircraft. Work includes repairing control columns, transmissions, gear boxes, landing gear, rotor assemblies, brake systems, and cargo equipment to restore components to serviceable condition using precision tools and specialized equipment.
How much does a federal Aircraft Mechanical Parts Repairer make?
Federal Aircraft Mechanical Parts Repairers receive WG pay with locality adjustments. WG-8840 positions typically range from WG-9 to WG-11 based on component complexity and repair expertise. Specialists working on critical flight components earn higher grades. Check DCPAS wage schedules for your locality rates.
What are the requirements for WG-8840 positions?
WG-8840 positions require knowledge of aircraft mechanical components, precision measurement, and repair techniques. Candidates must interpret technical data, use machine tools, and restore components to exact specifications. Higher grades require expertise with complex assemblies like transmissions, rotor systems, and flight controls. Security clearances often required.
Can military experience substitute for education in WG-8840?
Yes, military aviation component repair experience transfers directly to WG-8840. Army 15R (AH-64 Attack Helicopter Repairer), Navy AM (Aviation Structural Mechanic), Air Force 2A5X1, and Marine Corps helicopter mechanics have relevant skills. Your experience overhauling transmissions, rotor systems, and landing gear components is exactly what depot-level repair facilities need.
What is the career progression for Aircraft Mechanical Parts Repairers?
Aircraft Mechanical Parts Repairers advance from WG-9 through WG-11 based on component expertise and repair complexity. Senior repairers handle the most critical safety-of-flight components. Related paths include WG-8852 Aircraft Mechanic for whole-aircraft work. Work Leader (WL) positions supervise component repair shops. Quality Assurance Inspector roles offer alternative advancement.
How do I apply for WG-8840 jobs on USAJOBS?
Search USAJOBS for "Aircraft Mechanical Parts Repair" or "8840" to find positions at aviation depots and component repair facilities. Detail your experience with specific components—transmissions, rotor heads, landing gear assemblies. Include precision measurement skills and machine tool experience. Veterans' preference applies strongly here.
Ready to apply for WG-8840?
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.