Engineering Technician: Build Your Career at the Norfolk Naval Shipyard
The United States Navy is a premier employer for technical professionals seeking to make a measurable impact. The Norfolk Naval Shipyard is currently seeking highly qualified Engineering Technicians (GS-12) to join the Test Engineering Division. If you are an expert in shipboard systems, testing, and safety protocols, this role offers a pathway to a challenging and rewarding federal career.
Job Responsibilities
As an Engineering Technician (Code 246), your duties will be broad and technically demanding:
- Providing expert engineering advice on system isolation.
- Planning and coordinating complex test programs for multidisciplinary ship systems.
- Managing work authorization and tag-out actions to ensure crew safety.
- Evaluating technical status updates at the start of shifts.
Skills Comparison Table
| Competency | Importance |
|---|---|
| Shipboard Systems Knowledge | Critical |
| Tag Out / Safety Compliance | Critical |
| Team Coordination | High |
| Reasoning & Analytical Skills | High |
Requirements
Candidates must demonstrate one year of specialized experience at the GS-11 level. Key requirements include:
- Deep understanding of shipboard systems (conventional and nuclear).
- Mastery of mechanical and electrical testing techniques.
- Ability to handle complex administrative and procedural changes.
Salary and Benefits
The salary range for this position is $90,838 to $118,092 per year. Beyond the competitive base pay, employees enjoy comprehensive federal benefits, including health, vision, and dental insurance, robust retirement contributions, and consistent professional development.
Application Tips
- Keep it concise: Your resume must be 2 pages or less.
- Use the Resume Builder: This tool ensures you don't miss required data points like hours per week.
- Prepare for Assessments: The USA Hire process is mandatory; plan for at least two hours to complete the assessments.
Serving as an Engineering Technician at the Norfolk Naval Shipyard provides an unparalleled opportunity to work on unique vessels while building a secure federal career. Apply now to contribute to the mission of the U.S. Navy.
Why This Engineering Technician Job Matters
Advance your career as an Engineering Technician with the U.S. Navy at the Norfolk Naval Shipyard—where purpose meets technical innovation.
Engineering Technician Job Overview
The Norfolk Naval Shipyard is seeking skilled professionals for the position of Engineering Technician (Code 246) within our Test Engineering Division. You will play a critical role in the maintenance and operational readiness of complex, multi-disciplinary shipboard systems. This is a GS-12 opportunity focused on ensuring safety, compliance, and technical excellence across conventional and nuclear vessel platforms.
Requirements for Engineering Technician
- U.S. Citizenship
- One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-11 grade level
- Expert knowledge of complex shipboard system isolation and operations
- Proven experience with mechanical and electrical engineering techniques related to tag out and testing
- Ability to manage technical system alterations and administrative changes
- Must meet all qualification requirements by the closing date of the announcement
- Submission of a concise resume (maximum 2 pages)
Preferred Qualifications for Engineering Technician
- Experience with both conventional and nuclear-powered naval vessels
- Demonstrated ability to anticipate and respond to unusual technical demands
- Strong interpersonal and team-coordination skills
- Background in high-stress, safety-critical industrial environments
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options
- ✓Generous retirement plans (FERS) with matching contributions
- ✓Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays
- ✓Professional development and training opportunities
- ✓Career progression within the Department of the Navy
💡 How to Apply Engineering Technician Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Engineering Technician Job
- Review the full vacancy announcement carefully
- Prepare a resume not exceeding 2 pages documenting relevant technical experience
- Apply through the USAStaffing portal, completing all required questionnaires
- Submit supporting documentation including SF-50s and transcripts
- Complete the mandatory USA Hire Assessments within 48 hours of notification
- Monitor your application status through your USAJOBS account
💡 General Tips
- Use the USAJOBS Resume Builder to ensure all required fields are included
- Be specific regarding your experience with shipboard system isolation and tagging out
- Redact sensitive PII from supporting documents before uploading
- Ensure your resume shows specific dates (Month/Year) for all relevant employment
- Test for USA Hire assessments in a quiet environment with a stable internet connection
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary mission of this role?
You will be responsible for providing technical advice and planning comprehensive test programs for complex, multi-disciplinary systems on naval vessels.
Is a security clearance required?
Yes, this position requires a Secret security clearance.
Can I submit a long resume?
No, resumes are strictly limited to a maximum of 2 pages for this vacancy.
What is the promotion potential?
This position is at the GS-12 level with no stated further promotion potential within this announcement.
Is relocation offered?
Relocation expenses are not being offered for this specific announcement.
Job from United States Fleet Forces Command
The Department of the Navy is committed to maintaining the highest standards of readiness. As part of the United States Fleet Forces Command, the Norfolk Naval Shipyard serves as a vital hub for the repair, overhaul, and modernization of naval assets. Civilian employees here work alongside military personnel to ensure our fleet remains at the cutting edge of global capability.