Advance Your Career: General Engineer/Physical Scientist at NNSA
The National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) is currently seeking a highly qualified General Engineer or Physical Scientist to join the Nevada Field Office. This position is a rare opportunity for subject matter experts to contribute directly to the Department of Energy's national security mission. As a leader in technical safety, the incumbent will influence how hazardous facilities operate, ensuring the highest standards of safety and regulatory excellence.
Job Responsibilities
The selected candidate will serve as a recognized technical authority. Key duties include:
- Providing expert oversight for nuclear and non-nuclear hazardous facilities.
- Analyzing technical safety requirements and authorization basis documentation.
- Leading interdisciplinary teams to perform rigorous assessments.
- Advising senior management on program investments and safety management programs.
- Representing the agency in high-level meetings with contractors and regulators.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, you must meet stringent federal criteria:
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Must pass pre-employment drug testing and background investigations.
- Possess a degree in engineering or physical sciences with specific semester hours in core disciplines.
- Demonstrate one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-13 level.
- Ability to obtain Q-level clearance and TQP certification.
Comparison: General Engineer vs. Physical Scientist Paths
| Feature | Engineering Series (0801) | Physical Science Series (1301) |
|---|---|---|
| Academic Core | ABET-accredited program | 24+ credits in science/math |
| Focus | System design and integrity | Scientific methodology and research |
| Certification | EIT or PE encouraged | Advanced training in technical areas |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive salary range starting at $128,473 up to $205,519 per year, commensurate with qualifications and government pay scales.
Benefits
Employees at the NNSA enjoy a robust suite of federal benefits including comprehensive healthcare, generous pension and retirement contribution plans (TSP), and structured annual leave.
Application Tips
- Strict Page Limits: Your resume cannot exceed two pages.
- Be Specific: Detail your contributions and technical achievements clearly.
- Avoid 'See Resume': Every response must be documented in the application questions.
This role is an exceptional opportunity for those who prioritize technical rigor and public service. Apply today to contribute to the mission of the Nevada Field Office.
Why This General Engineer/Physical Scientist Job Matters
Join the National Nuclear Security Administration in Las Vegas and serve as a technical authority on critical national security infrastructure.
General Engineer/Physical Scientist Job Overview
The Nevada Field Office of the NNSA is seeking a highly skilled General Engineer or Physical Scientist to provide oversight for hazardous facility operations. You will act as a primary technical advisor to senior management, ensuring safety authorization protocols are strictly followed while evaluating complex engineering documentation. This role is pivotal in maintaining the safety and regulatory compliance of nuclear and non-nuclear hazardous operations.
Requirements for General Engineer/Physical Scientist
- U.S. Citizenship
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Q-level security clearance
- Pass a pre-employment drug test
- Ability to pass a background investigation for a Critical-Sensitive/High Risk position
- Possession of a degree in Engineering or Physical Science meeting specific academic credit requirements
- Minimum of one year of specialized experience at the GS-13 or equivalent level
- Must be able to obtain DOE Technical Qualification Program (TQP) certification within 18 months
- Submission of a maximum two-page resume
Preferred Qualifications for General Engineer/Physical Scientist
- Experience in expert technical review of safety analysis documentation
- Demonstrated ability to originate and implement strategies for complex scientific concepts
- Proven experience investigating and resolving unusual problems in multidisciplinary contexts
- Professional engineering licensure (PE) or certification (EIT/FE)
- Strong proficiency in oral communication for technical and non-technical stakeholders
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary structure
- ✓Comprehensive health and life insurance options
- ✓Retirement savings plans
- ✓Paid vacation and sick leave
- ✓Ongoing professional development and technical training opportunities
💡 How to Apply General Engineer/Physical Scientist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for General Engineer/Physical Scientist Job
- Create or sign in to your login.gov account on USAJOBS.
- Click the Apply Online button on the vacancy announcement.
- Complete the online questionnaire honestly and thoroughly.
- Upload your two-page resume and required supporting documentation, such as transcripts or SF-50s.
- Submit your application package before 11:59 PM EST on the closing date.
- Monitor your status via the USAJOBS portal.
💡 General Tips
- Limit your resume to exactly two pages; exceeding this limit results in automatic disqualification.
- Cite specific examples from your professional history rather than writing 'see resume'.
- Include full contact information and address for all previous employers.
- Ensure your transcripts clearly show degrees, course titles, and credits earned.
- Double-check that your SF-50 forms clearly show your tenure, pay plan, and grade.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the security clearance level for this role?
The position requires a Q-level security clearance, which is a critical-sensitive, high-risk designation.
Can I submit a resume longer than two pages?
No. The application instructions explicitly state that resumes exceeding two pages will lead to disqualification.
What if my degree is from outside the US?
You must submit an official foreign education evaluation proving equivalence to a U.S. accredited program.
Is there a trial period?
Yes, a two-year trial period may be required for excepted service employees.
Job from National Nuclear Security Administration
The NNSA is a semi-autonomous agency within the Department of Energy responsible for enhancing national security through the military application of nuclear science. The Nevada Field Office plays a key role in managing complex environmental, safety, and health programs. Working here means joining a team dedicated to technical integrity and innovation.