Expert: Nicholas P Previsich - 9/19/2000

Question
I am currently unemployed, I am an ASE certified master automotive technician with approx. 10yrs dealership experience.  I endured a major neck injury at work, and lost my carreer for the most part, I am now out of work upon the doctors release with very little restrictions, allthough I dont see returning as a line technician, I was curious if the gov. had any positions that may utilize my mechanical background including electrical experience.  Maybe as an instructor, or anything basically that I could get my foot in the door for something that pays better than McDonalds.  I`m looking for bottom line of $33k/yr. but with potential to make more, travel is not a problem.   If you have any information of how to obtain a job as a civilian for the gov. or the military, I would greatly appreciate it. thanks.

Answer
Hi, Wayne. Sure, there's jobs for auto mechanics in the Federal government! Follow this link: http://www.usajobs.opm.gov/a6.htm and enter 5823 as your "job series"; 5823 means auto mechanic. I found 22 openings, mostly out West. Just follow the directions given in the announcements to apply. If you're a veteran that's a plus for hiring preference, but most Federal agencies are very short-handed right now so your odds are good regardless.

I also maintain a site with Federal and state job site links: http://pages.prodigy.net/nick.kay/nick.kay.htm . Good luck with your search, and let me know if I can be of any further assistance to you....Nick