Lead Mechanical Engineer: Advancing Maritime Excellence
Are you an experienced mechanical engineer looking to apply your skills toward a mission-critical objective? The Military Sealift Command (MSC) is currently recruiting for a Lead Mechanical Engineer in Mobile, Alabama. This position offers a unique opportunity to oversee the design, construction, and lifecycle management of sophisticated naval systems, directly contributing to the readiness of our fleet.
Job Responsibilities
As the Lead Mechanical Engineer, you will be the on-site authority for select ship inspections and trials. Your daily responsibilities will include:
- Overseeing Factory Acceptance and Ship Acceptance Tests.
- Providing formal recommendations to Program Managers regarding logistics and lifecycle issues.
- Coordinating vessel crew turnovers and pre-delivery training.
- Balancing workloads and mentoring team members on construction techniques.
- Navigating complex government contracts and applying modern engineering solutions to resolve legacy technical issues.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Education: A bachelor's degree in engineering from an ABET-accredited program, or equivalent qualifying experience/education.
- Experience: At least one year of specialized experience at the GS-13 level.
- Clearance: Must hold or be eligible to obtain an active Secret security clearance.
- Compliance: Must be physically capable of performing on-site shipyard duties.
Salary and Comparison
The position offers a highly competitive salary range reflecting the senior nature of the role.
| Position Level | Salary Range (Annual) | Federal Classification |
|---|---|---|
| Lead Mechanical Engineer | $125,776 - $163,514 | GS-14 |
Benefits
Employees of the Department of the Navy enjoy comprehensive federal benefits, including:
- Extensive health and life insurance options.
- Access to the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) for retirement.
- Generous leave policies including paid federal holidays.
- Training programs designed to facilitate long-term career advancement.
Application Tips
- Precision is Key: Follow the two-page resume limit strictly.
- Documentation: Ensure all transcripts and certification documents are clearly legible.
- Subject Lines: Use the specific email subject line provided in the official announcement to ensure your application is routed correctly.
This role is an ideal step for an engineer ready to influence the future of naval infrastructure. If you possess the required technical expertise and a desire to serve, we encourage you to submit your application by the deadline to be part of the Military Sealift Command team.
Why This Lead Mechanical Engineer Job Matters
Advance your engineering career with the Military Sealift Command, shaping the future of naval architecture and vessel performance from the coast of Alabama.
Lead Mechanical Engineer Job Overview
The Military Sealift Command (MSC) is seeking a highly skilled Lead Mechanical Engineer to join our team in Mobile, Alabama. This role serves as a vital technical authority overseeing ship construction, complex inspections, and lifecycle management. You will act as the primary liaison between the program office and shipyard operations, ensuring our fleet maintains the highest standards of safety, reliability, and mission readiness.
Requirements for Lead Mechanical Engineer
- Bachelor's degree in engineering from an ABET-accredited school or a combination of education and equivalent professional experience.
- Minimum of one year of specialized experience at the GS-13 grade level (or equivalent private sector experience).
- Proven expertise in the design, commission, operation, maintenance, and disposal of mechanical ship systems.
- Active Secret security clearance.
- Ability to perform physical site inspections including crawling, climbing, and walking in shipyard environments.
- Capacity to pass a mandatory pre-employment screening process.
Preferred Qualifications for Lead Mechanical Engineer
- Active Professional Engineer (PE) license or Engineer in Training (EIT) certification.
- Deep familiarity with USCG and ABS regulatory standards for maritime design and safety.
- Demonstrated history in managing complex government contracts and shipyard production schedules.
- Experience in coordinating vessel crew turnovers and large-scale maritime logistics.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Federal Salary
- ✓Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance packages.
- ✓Robust retirement plans including FERS and the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- ✓Paid federal holidays, vacation time, and sick leave.
- ✓Professional development and continuous training opportunities.
- ✓Flexible work options including telework eligibility.
💡 How to Apply Lead Mechanical Engineer Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Lead Mechanical Engineer Job
- Prepare a resume restricted to a maximum of 2 pages.
- Email your application package to the designated recruitment address with the subject line 'Application for MSC LEAD MECHANICAL ENGINEER (N741-MOBILE, AL)'.
- Ensure all educational transcripts and professional certifications are attached if applicable.
- Submit your package prior to the August 25, 2026, closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume focused; ensure it does not exceed the two-page limit.
- Clearly highlight your experience in ship construction and mechanical systems to align with the specific duties listed.
- Verify that your resume includes dates of employment (Month/Year) and hours worked per week for every position listed.
- Use the USAJOBS Resume Builder tool to ensure you capture all required federal formatting information.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a remote position?
No, this role is based in Mobile, Alabama, and requires frequent on-site inspections in shipyards; however, the position is telework eligible for certain administrative tasks.
What is the maximum page count for the resume?
All applications must include a resume that is strictly limited to 2 pages. Applications exceeding this limit or missing key details will not be considered.
What happens after I apply?
Your resume will be reviewed by HR. Qualified candidates are referred to the hiring manager, who may initiate an interview process.
Is relocation assistance provided?
Relocation benefits are not typically offered for this specific vacancy.
Job from Military Sealift Command
The Military Sealift Command operates the largest fleet of support ships in the world. As a vital component of the Department of the Navy, our engineers are at the forefront of maritime technology, ensuring that our vessels meet the rigorous demands of modern oceanic logistics and defense. We offer competitive federal benefits, professional growth, and the chance to work in a high-stakes, collaborative environment.