Engineering the Future of Naval Power
Are you a visionary engineer looking to make a lasting impact on national security? The Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) is searching for a dedicated and experienced Lead General Engineer to join the Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division (NAWCAD) at the Patuxent River facility. This position is a rare opportunity to influence the design, acquisition, and sustainment of cutting-edge weapon systems that protect our nation.
Job Responsibilities
As a lead engineer, you will oversee a wide range of responsibilities that demand both technical precision and managerial foresight:
- Technical Leadership: Serve as the subject matter expert and advisor on engineering issues for high-priority programs.
- Design & Integration: Evaluate emerging technologies to ensure they meet the rigorous requirements of the fleet.
- Acquisition Management: Develop the engineering components of Procurement Requests and Requests for Proposals (RFPs).
- Project Oversight: Maintain deep knowledge of system capabilities and lifecycle demands, planning for both current and future operational requirements.
Requirements
To qualify for this position, candidates must meet stringent academic and professional standards:
- Education: A bachelor’s degree from an ABET-accredited engineering program or equivalent coursework in fundamental engineering sciences.
- Experience: One year of specialized experience at the DP-05 level or equivalent.
- Clearance: Ability to hold a Top Secret security clearance.
- Testing: Completion of a mandatory pre-employment drug test.
Comparison of Potential Candidates
| Feature | Candidate A | Candidate B |
|---|---|---|
| Engineering Degree | Yes (ABET) | Yes (Science/Tech) |
| PE License | Yes | No |
| Systems Engineering Exp | 5+ Years | 2 Years |
| Leadership Experience | Extensive | Emerging |
Salary Overview
The position offers a competitive compensation package aligned with the DP pay band. The annual salary range is $143,913 – $187,093, commensurate with experience and qualifications.
Benefits
Federal service comes with an industry-leading benefits package, including:
- Robust health and life insurance.
- Generous retirement planning through the FERS system and TSP.
- Flexible work arrangements and telework opportunities.
- Paid leave and federal holidays.
Application Tips
- Keep it Brief: Your resume must be two pages or less. Focus on specific accomplishments and your leadership role in systems engineering.
- Documentation: Provide all required SF-50s if you are an internal federal applicant and copies of your transcripts if you are using education to qualify.
- Double Check: Use the USAJOBS tools to verify your application is complete before the July 27, 2026, deadline.
If you are ready to apply your engineering expertise to one of the most critical missions in the country, this is your moment. Apply to the Naval Air Systems Command and help us maintain technical superiority at sea and in the air.
Why This General Engineer Job Matters
Take command of the future of Naval aviation. Join the Naval Air Systems Command as a Lead General Engineer and spearhead mission-critical systems engineering for the fleet.
General Engineer Job Overview
The Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division (NAWCAD) is seeking a highly skilled Lead General Engineer to join our elite Systems Engineering Department. In this pivotal role at Patuxent River, Maryland, you will serve as the primary technical advisor, overseeing the development, design, and integration of cutting-edge weapon systems. This is a unique opportunity to shape the strategic direction of major acquisition programs, ensuring our sailors have the most reliable and effective technology available. If you are a visionary engineer with a passion for national security and systems leadership, we invite you to apply.
Requirements for General Engineer
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Must possess a bachelor's degree or higher in an engineering field accredited by ABET or equivalent coursework in core engineering sciences.
- Must have at least one year of specialized experience at the DP-05 grade level or equivalent in federal or private sectors.
- Must demonstrate expertise in systems engineering, technical domain leadership, and acquisition processes.
- Must be able to obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance.
- Required to pass a pre-employment drug screening.
- Ability to communicate complex engineering concepts effectively both orally and in writing.
Preferred Qualifications for General Engineer
- Current licensure as a Professional Engineer (PE).
- Certification as an Engineer Intern (EI) or Engineer in Training (EIT).
- Proven experience in leading technical teams through complex project management lifecycles.
- Advanced technical expertise in weapons system acquisition and risk characterization.
- Active participation in recognized professional engineering organizations.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary structure
- ✓Comprehensive health insurance options
- ✓Federal retirement benefits (FERS)
- ✓Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with agency matching
- ✓Paid vacation and sick leave
- ✓Professional development and training opportunities
- ✓Telework eligibility
💡 How to Apply General Engineer Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for General Engineer Job
- Log in or create a profile on the USAJOBS portal.
- Draft a professional resume—strictly limited to a maximum of 2 pages.
- Include all required supporting documentation (transcripts, SF-50s, licenses).
- Complete the online assessment questionnaire.
- Submit your full application package before the closing date of July 27, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Use the USAJOBS Resume Builder to ensure all required fields are included.
- Double-check that your resume explicitly states your job title, dates of employment, and hours per week.
- Ensure all uploaded documents are clearly legible to avoid disqualification.
- Submit your application well before the deadline to account for potential technical delays.
- Redact sensitive personal information (like SSNs) from supporting documents before submission if desired.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the security clearance requirement for this position?
This role is designated as Critical-Sensitive (High Risk) and requires a Top Secret security clearance.
Can I submit a resume longer than two pages?
No. Resumes submitted for this position must be no more than two pages in length to be considered.
Is this position eligible for telework?
Yes, this position is eligible for telework, subject to agency policy.
Job from Naval Air Systems Command
The Department of the Navy is committed to excellence, innovation, and the professional growth of its civilian workforce. At NAWCAD, we link military and civilian talent to solve the most complex technical challenges facing our fleet. As a civilian engineer here, your work directly impacts operational success, providing the strategic backbone for mission-critical aircraft and support systems.