Army Jobs
Career Opportunity | Heavy Mobile Equipment Repairer | U.S. Army Reserve 2026 Full Time
Introduction
Operating mobile equipment is not glamorous, but it is certainly important work, especially in the Army Reserve, where everything else is dependent upon it running well. As a Heavy Mobile Equipment Repairer, you are responsible for fixing the equipment or cars that fail. The work is basic, grounded in common-sense problem-solving rather than theory of any kind, where, if it breaks, you simply fix it, plain and simple, its being dependable being of vastly greater importance than any title you happen to bear.
This job with the Department of the Army, under the U.S. Army Reserve Command, is the kind of opportunity that is well-suited for an individual looking to build a long-term career with the federal government while remaining close to the Army Reserve mission statement.
This is a permanent, full-time job with a regular structure, expectations, and a pace that is physically active, technical in nature, often out in the workshop or motor pool, frequently outside, and rarely in front of a computer screen. You will become proficient in the efficient application of skill, be quite adept at diagnosing problems, and take pride in the knowledge that the equipment maintained by yourself and colleagues remains operational and in good condition.
This is for the individual who takes an interest in equipment maintenance, the mechanical trades, and the Army Reserve mission statement, contributing to the mission from the ground up.
Job Overview
The Heavy Mobile Equipment Repairer role is to maintain the Army vehicles and machinery. These mobile equipment positions are based at equipment concentration sites operated by the Department of the Army, specifically within the 88th Readiness Division at Fort Riley, Kansas. The Army Reserve hires for this role to ensure construction, tactical, combat, and power generation equipment remains fully operational.
In this position, you work directly on Army-owned equipment, inspecting, servicing, and repairing systems that support training and operational work. The role is permanent and full-time, with no remote or telework option, reflecting the hands-on nature of the work. While travel is limited, occasional business travel may be required. This job supports the Army Reserve by reducing downtime, extending equipment life, and ensuring units have reliable assets when they are needed most.
Key Responsibilities
Your responsibilities focus on keeping complex machinery running safely and efficiently. You troubleshoot mechanical and hydraulic systems, repair or replace worn components, and carry out preventive maintenance checks to catch issues before they fail. Cooling systems, braking assemblies, power trains, exhaust systems, and fuel components are all part of your regular workload.
Another important aspect of the role is inspection and testing. You conduct operational checks, operate vehicles to verify repairs, and ensure equipment meets service standards before returning it to use. You also assist senior repairers with more complex tasks, such as engine or transmission replacements, gaining exposure to advanced repairs over time. Minor body work and general servicing round out the role, making it varied but grounded in mechanical fundamentals.
Eligibility Criteria
This role is open to U.S. citizens who can meet both civilian employment and Army Reserve requirements. Active membership as a soldier in the Army Reserve is mandatory, as this is a military technician position. There is no formal education requirement, but applicants must clearly demonstrate the ability to perform the duties of a heavy mobile equipment repairer without more than normal supervision.
Physical capability is essential. The work involves standing for long periods, lifting heavy parts, working in tight spaces, and handling tools in demanding conditions. A Class A Commercial Driver’s License is required within 180 days of appointment. Applicants must also pass a medical examination and drug testing. Soft skills matter here as well; attention to detail, dependability, and the ability to follow procedures consistently are critical to success.
Training & Career Development
There is no fixed training program attached to this role, but learning happens constantly on the job. New hires develop skills through hands-on maintenance work, guided by experienced mechanics and Army maintenance standards. Over time, exposure to different vehicle types and systems builds technical depth and confidence.
While promotion potential is not built into the position, the role sits within the Materiel Maintenance Management Career Field, offering long-term stability. Experience gained here can support lateral movement within federal service or strengthen technical credentials in the wider mechanical trades. Ongoing compliance training, safety instruction, and equipment-specific updates are part of the role as systems evolve.
Salary & Benefits
The Heavy Mobile Equipment Repairer position offers hourly pay ranging from approximately $26.78 to $31.29, based on the local prevailing rate and classified at the WG-8 level. Salary includes applicable locality pay and increases with experience. Relocation expenses may be reimbursed if deemed in the government’s interest.
As a permanent federal employee, you receive a comprehensive benefits package that typically includes healthcare options, retirement plans, paid leave, and job stability. Compensation and benefits can vary depending on service status and policy, but the overall package reflects the long-term nature of federal employment within the Army Reserve support structure.
Who Should Apply
This role is well-suited to people who prefer practical work and clear outcomes. An ideal candidate enjoys diagnosing mechanical problems, working with tools, and seeing immediate results from their effort. It fits individuals who value structure, follow safety rules closely, and take pride in maintaining equipment others depend on.
If you are already part of the Army Reserve and want a civilian role that aligns with your military service, this position makes sense. It is especially suitable for those seeking steady employment, physical work, and a direct contribution to readiness rather than supervisory or office-based responsibilities.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should apply through the USAJOBS platform during the open application period. Start by preparing a clear, two-page resume that details relevant mechanical experience, including job titles, dates, hours worked, and specific duties performed. Supporting documents, such as performance appraisals or optional cover letters, should be uploaded as needed.
After submitting the online application and questionnaire, your materials will be reviewed to confirm eligibility and qualifications. Applications are assessed monthly under a standing register process until positions are filled or the announcement closes. Candidates should monitor their USAJOBS account for application status updates.
Preparation Tips
Before applying, review the types of vehicles and equipment commonly used by the Army Reserve. Strengthening skills in preventive maintenance, basic diagnostics, and safe equipment operation will help. Physical readiness is also important, as the job is demanding. Attention to detail in your resume matters; clearly show how your experience matches the work rather than assuming reviewers will infer it.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is this a civilian or military role?
It is a civilian federal position that requires active membership in the Army Reserve.
Q: Is prior experience required?
There is no set experience length, but you must demonstrate the ability to perform the work competently.
Q: Where is the job located?
The current vacancy is at Fort Riley, Kansas.
Q: Does the role involve travel?
Occasional travel is required, typically around five percent.
Q: Is a security clearance required?
No security clearance is required for this position.
Q: What are the working conditions like?
Work is performed in workshops and outdoor environments, with exposure to noise, grease, weather, and heavy equipment.
Q: Is this a long-term position?
Yes, it is a permanent, full-time federal role supporting the Army Reserve.
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