Advance Your Career as a Mechanical Engineer with the Defense Logistics Agency
Are you a seasoned engineering professional looking to apply your technical expertise to support national security? The Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) is currently hiring a Mechanical Engineer in Arlington, Virginia. This high-level position offers a unique blend of structural design, project management, and interdisciplinary coordination within a premier Department of Defense agency.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will act as a key project lead within the Installation Management division. Core duties include:
- Project Management: Guiding construction and engineering projects from site selection through implementation.
- Technical Analysis: Utilizing advanced FEA tools to solve complex structural stress and shock issues.
- Financial Oversight: Managing project budgets and negotiating terms with private-sector contractors.
- Stakeholder Collaboration: Translating complex engineering needs into actionable requirements for diverse stakeholders.
Requirements
To be eligible, you must meet the following criteria:
- Educational Foundation: Bachelor's degree in engineering from an ABET-accredited program or a related scientific field with sufficient professional engineering experience.
- Professional Experience: One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-13 level.
- Clearance: Ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance.
- Compliance: Willingness to undergo pre-employment drug screening.
Qualifications Comparison Table
| Criteria | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Clearance Level | Top Secret |
| Education | Engineering/Scientific Degree |
| Experience Level | GS-13 Equivalent |
| Resume Limit | 2 Pages Max |
Salary and Benefits
This GS-14 position offers a competitive salary range of $143,913 to $187,093. Federal employees also enjoy a robust benefits package, including health insurance, generous retirement contributions (FERS/TSP), and substantial leave accrual.
Application Tips
- Focus on Quality: Since there is a strict two-page limit for your resume, focus on your most relevant achievements.
- Formatting Matters: Upload your document as a PDF to ensure the layout remains intact.
- Assessments: Be prepared to complete the USA Hire Competency Based Assessments within 48 hours of notification.
Serving as a Mechanical Engineer with the DLA is more than just a job; it is a vital contribution to national defense readiness. If you have the skills to lead and the dedication to serve, we invite you to apply today.
Why This Mechanical Engineer Job Matters
Take your mechanical engineering career to the front lines of defense logistics with the DLA in Arlington, Virginia.
Mechanical Engineer Job Overview
The Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) is seeking a skilled Mechanical Engineer to join its Installation Management division. This role involves managing complex engineering projects, overseeing construction design, and providing expert technical guidance to ensure the readiness and operational efficiency of our national defense infrastructure. This is a high-impact GS-14 position offering the opportunity to lead critical initiatives within the Department of Defense.
Requirements for Mechanical Engineer
- U.S. Citizenship is required.
- Must hold or be able to obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance.
- Must possess a bachelor's degree or higher in professional engineering from an ABET-accredited institution or equivalent combination of education and experience.
- One year of specialized experience at the GS-13 level or equivalent, demonstrating mastery of mechanical/structural design and FEA.
- Ability to undergo and pass pre-employment and periodic drug testing.
- Compliance with Non-Combat Essential (NCE) designation and readiness requirements.
Preferred Qualifications for Mechanical Engineer
- Demonstrated experience in finite element analysis (FEA) for structural stress and shock problem resolution.
- Proven track record in managing project life cycles from initial layout to final construction inspection.
- Strong background in federal contract negotiation and financial program management.
- Experience in coordinating project schedules and budgets with multiple stakeholder agencies.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary and advancement potential.
- ✓Comprehensive health and life insurance options.
- ✓Generous federal retirement and pension plan (FERS).
- ✓Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching.
- ✓Paid vacation, federal holidays, and sick leave.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training.
💡 How to Apply Mechanical Engineer Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Mechanical Engineer Job
- Review the full announcement and ensure you meet all basic requirements.
- Prepare a concise, maximum two-page resume highlighting specialized experience.
- Submit your application through the official online portal before the deadline.
- Complete the mandatory USA Hire Competency Based Assessments if notified.
- Monitor your status and correspondence through your official job seeker account.
💡 General Tips
- Adhere strictly to the two-page resume limit; exceeding this will result in immediate disqualification.
- Use standard fonts such as Lato, Arial, or Calibri and maintain a 0.5-inch margin.
- Save your resume as a PDF to preserve formatting.
- Ensure your resume explicitly details duties performed, hours worked per week, and employment dates.
- Check your spam or junk folder for communications regarding assessment invitations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the security clearance requirement for this position?
This position requires a Top Secret security clearance.
Can I submit a resume longer than two pages?
No. The system strictly enforces a two-page limit. Any resume exceeding this length will cause you to be removed from consideration.
Is telework allowed for this role?
This position is not designated as telework-eligible.
Job from Defense Logistics Agency
The Defense Logistics Agency serves as the nation's logistics combat support agency. We provide global support for the military departments and unified combatant commands, ensuring that our forces have the supplies and services required to execute their missions in both peacetime and during contingency operations.