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Aircraft Mechanic
This standard is used to grade all nonsupervisory jobs involved in the maintenance, troubleshooting, repair, overhaul, and modification of fixed and rotary wing aircraft systems, airframes, components and assemblies, where the work requires substantive knowledge of the airframe and aircraft mechanical, pneudraulic, and/or electrical systems and their interrelationships. Some work situations within this series may require varying levels of electronics knowledge. This standard cancels and supersed
What WG-8852 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-8852, as written.
Aircraft Mechanic
Federal Wage System Position
Work Performed
This standard is used to grade all nonsupervisory jobs involved in the maintenance, troubleshooting, repair, overhaul, and modification of fixed and rotary wing aircraft systems, airframes, components and assemblies, where the work requires substantive knowledge of the airframe and aircraft mechanical, pneudraulic, and/or electrical systems and their interrelationships. Some work situations within this series may require varying levels of electronics knowledge. This standard cancels and supersedes the Job Grading Standard for Aircraft Mechanic, 8852, issued February 1969.
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-8852
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 Structural Inspector
Aircraft mechanic pathway.
Skills that carry over: Structural Inspection, Quality Assurance, NDI, Documentation, Compliance.
Usually opens at: GS-9, GS-11.
Aircraft Powerplant Repairer
15Bs map 1:1 to WG-8852 Aircraft Mechanic, the federal trade classification for the work you already performed. Qualification is demonstrated experience, not a degree.
Skills that carry over: Powerplant maintenance, Turbine engine repair, Airworthiness inspection, Maintenance documentation.
Usually opens at: WG-8, WG-10, WG-11.
Helicopter/Tiltrotor Aircraft Maintenance
2A5X2 maps directly to WG-8852 Aircraft Mechanic, the core federal trades series for airframe and powerplant work. Craftsman-level airmen often qualify at journeyman wage-grade levels.
Skills that carry over: Airframe and powerplant maintenance, Inspection and troubleshooting, Technical-order compliance, Aircraft documentation.
Usually opens at: WG-8, WG-10, WG-12.
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 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
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-8852
What is an Aircraft Mechanic?
An Aircraft Mechanic (WG-8852) performs maintenance, troubleshooting, repair, overhaul, and modification of fixed and rotary wing aircraft systems, airframes, components, and assemblies. Work requires substantive knowledge of mechanical, pneudraulic, and electrical systems and their interrelationships. This comprehensive aviation maintenance role ensures aircraft are safe and mission-ready.
How much does a federal Aircraft Mechanic make?
Federal Aircraft Mechanics receive WG pay with locality adjustments. WG-8852 positions typically range from WG-10 to WG-12 for journey and senior levels. Aircraft mechanics at Air Logistics Complexes, naval air stations, and Army aviation facilities earn competitive wages. Check DCPAS wage schedules for your specific locality rates.
What are the requirements for WG-8852 positions?
WG-8852 positions require comprehensive knowledge of aircraft systems including airframe structures, mechanical systems, pneudraulics, and electrical components. Candidates must diagnose malfunctions across integrated systems, interpret technical data, and perform repairs to aviation safety standards. FAA A&P certification often required. Security clearance needed for military aircraft.
Can military experience substitute for education in WG-8852?
Absolutely. Military aircraft maintenance experience is ideal for WG-8852. Air Force 2A3X3/2A5X1, Navy AM/AD/AE ratings, Army 15-series MOS (Aircraft Structural Repairer, Helicopter Mechanic), and Marine Corps 6XXX aviation specialties have directly applicable training. Your military aircraft maintenance experience translates perfectly to federal aviation positions.
What is the career progression for Aircraft Mechanics?
Aircraft Mechanics advance from WG-10 through WG-12 based on aircraft expertise and diagnostic proficiency. Senior mechanics handle complex aircraft and lead maintenance actions. Work Leader (WL) positions supervise maintenance teams. Quality Assurance and Inspection roles offer alternative paths. FAA A&P plus Inspection Authorization (IA) certification expands career options significantly.
How do I apply for WG-8852 jobs on USAJOBS?
Search USAJOBS for "Aircraft Mechanic" or "8852" to find positions at Air Logistics Complexes, naval air depots, Army aviation facilities, and Coast Guard air stations. Detail your experience with specific aircraft—C-17, F-16, Black Hawk, Apache, etc. Include FAA certifications, security clearance status, and specialized training. Veterans' preference applies strongly.
Ready to apply for WG-8852?
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.