Light-Wheel Vehicle Mechanic

Overview

As a Light‑Wheel Vehicle Mechanic for the Army National Guard you’ll ensure that anything that moves on wheels is ready to hit the road. In this role you will supervise and perform maintenance and recovery operations on wheeled vehicles in the field and in the shop.

Through your training, you will develop the skills and experience to enjoy a civilian career with service stations, auto dealers, farm equipment companies, and state highway agencies. You’ll be able to pursue a career as a mechanic who works on carburetors, transmissions, radiators, construction equipment, and endless track vehicles.

Instead of paying to learn these skills, you will get paid to train. In the Army National Guard, you learn these valuable job skills while earning a regular paycheck and qualifying for tuition assistance.

Job training requires 10 weeks of Basic Training, where you’ll learn basic Soldiering skills, and 13 weeks of Advanced Individual Training (AIT). Part of this time is spent in the classroom and part in the field.

• Inspect, service, maintain, repair, test, adjust, and replace systems and components on wheeled vehicles, associated trailers and material‑handling equipment.
• Perform recovery operations.
• Service automotive electrical systems, including wiring harnesses, starting, and charging systems.

• Interest in troubleshooting and repairing mechanical problems.
• Interest in automotive engines and how they work.

• Paid training.
• Monthly paycheck.
• Montgomery GI Bill eligibility.
• Federal and State tuition assistance.
• Retirement benefits for part‑time service.
• Low‑cost life insurance (up to $400,000 coverage).
• 401(k)-type savings plan.
• Student Loan Repayment Program (up to $50,000 for existing loans).
• Health‑care benefits available.
• VA home loans.
• Bonuses, if applicable.
• Possible earnings of $200–$250 per drill weekend (subject to change).

• Military enlistment in the Army National Guard.
• Must be at least a junior in high school, or have a high school diploma or a GED certificate.
• Must be between the ages of 17 and 35.
• Must be able to pass a physical exam and meet legal and moral standards.
• Must meet citizenship requirements (see  for details).

Actual MOS assignment may depend on MOS availability. Programs and benefits are subject to change. Ask your Army National Guard recruiter for the most up‑to‑date information.