Engineering the Future: Career Opportunities at the Defense Logistics Agency
The Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) is the backbone of U.S. military logistics, providing critical support to combatant commands and federal agencies across the globe. We are currently searching for an expert Materials Engineer (GS-13) to join our team at Fort Belvoir, Virginia. If you are passionate about engineering excellence and want to support the nation’s defense, this role offers a challenging and rewarding career path.
Job Responsibilities
As a Materials Engineer, you will lead efforts in managing strategic and critical materials. Your primary responsibilities include:
- Developing comprehensive acquisition documentation (SOW, PWS, SOO).
- Providing technical support during the solicitation and negotiation processes.
- Conducting in-depth analysis of material properties to ensure manufactured items meet design criteria.
- Serving as a Program Manager for acquisition and disposal projects.
Comparison Table: Your Professional Growth
| Feature | Junior Engineer | GS-13 Materials Engineer |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Project-based | Program Management |
| Impact | Support focused | Strategic decision making |
| Independence | High supervision | High autonomy |
| Interaction | Internal teams | Inter-agency/Industry |
Requirements
To qualify for this position, you must hold a bachelor's degree in an accredited engineering field or possess an equivalent combination of education and professional engineering experience. You must also demonstrate one year of specialized experience at the GS-12 level, focusing on material performance and quality assurance. All applicants must successfully pass a drug screen and obtain a Secret security clearance.
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive salary range of $121,785 to $158,322 per year, commensurate with your experience and the federal pay scale.
Benefits
Employees of the DLA enjoy a robust benefits package, including:
- Comprehensive health insurance.
- Federal Employee Retirement System (FERS) benefits.
- Paid time off and sick leave.
- Opportunities for professional training and certification.
Application Tips
- Respect the Limits: Your resume must not exceed two pages.
- Clarity: Clearly define your specialized experience, focusing on technical analysis and quality assurance.
- Formatting: Use legible, professional fonts and follow the 0.5-inch margin requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Is there an application deadline? This is an open-continuous announcement with an initial cut-off of April 30, 2026.
- Does this job require travel? Yes, the role involves occasional travel.
This role is an exceptional opportunity for an experienced engineer to make a tangible impact on national security. We invite you to submit your application and start your journey with the DLA today.
Why This Materials Engineer (6 Month Register) Job Matters
Advance your engineering career with the Defense Logistics Agency—a mission-critical role shaping the future of strategic materials and logistics support.
Materials Engineer (6 Month Register) Job Overview
The Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) is seeking a skilled Materials Engineer to join our team at Fort Belvoir, Virginia. In this role, you will play a vital part in our mission to provide worldwide logistics support to military departments and federal agencies. You will manage complex engineering tasks related to material performance, acquisition, and quality assurance, ensuring that the components we provide are of the highest standard for our nation's defense.
Requirements for Materials Engineer (6 Month Register)
- U.S. Citizenship.
- A bachelor's degree or higher in an accredited professional engineering program.
- Alternatively, a combination of education and experience that demonstrates equivalent professional engineering knowledge.
- One year of specialized experience at the GS-12 level or equivalent.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
- Agreement to mandatory pre-employment and random drug testing.
- Compliance with financial disclosure requirements.
- Submission of a resume not exceeding two pages.
Preferred Qualifications for Materials Engineer (6 Month Register)
- Advanced professional knowledge of material properties and mechanical engineering principles.
- Experience in technical acquisition processes, including SOW, PWS, and IGCE development.
- Proficiency in quality assurance policies and the evaluation of customer complaints.
- Strong communication skills for inter-agency collaboration and program management.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive health insurance options.
- ✓Generous federal retirement and pension plans.
- ✓Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning.
- ✓Flexible work arrangements, including telework options.
- ✓Life and long-term care insurance programs.
💡 How to Apply Materials Engineer (6 Month Register) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Materials Engineer (6 Month Register) Job
- Log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Complete the online application questionnaire.
- Upload a resume (maximum of 2 pages, PDF format recommended).
- Provide transcripts or documentation of professional licensure if applicable.
- Submit your complete application package by the designated cut-off date.
- Monitor your status via the USAJOBS portal.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume strictly adheres to the two-page limit; exceeding this will disqualify your application.
- Clearly articulate your specialized experience in engineering factors and manufacturing processes.
- Verify your work schedule, hours per week, and dates of employment for every listed role.
- Use standard, legible fonts like Lato, Arial, or Calibri.
- Double-check that all required documents are attached before hitting submit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the initial cut-off date for this application?
The initial evaluation cut-off is April 30, 2026. Applications received by this date will be considered for the first round of vacancies.
Is telework available for this position?
Yes, this position is eligible for telework, subject to agency policy and management approval.
Will I be subject to drug testing?
Yes, as this is a testing-designated position, you will be subject to pre-employment and random drug testing.
Job from Defense Logistics Agency
The DLA serves as the Nation’s Logistics Combat Support Agency. From fuel and food to medical supplies and repair parts, the DLA ensures that our military forces remain operational and ready under all conditions. Joining the DLA means becoming part of an organization that values integrity, innovation, and professional growth.