Advance Your Career: Technical Director at NAWCAD

Are you an expert in systems engineering with a drive for innovation? The Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) is looking for a dynamic Interdisciplinary Engineer/Scientist to serve as the Technical Director for the PMA-298 Technology Maturation and Risk Reduction team. This is a pivotal role stationed at the Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division (NAWCAD) in Patuxent River, Maryland, where you will directly influence the development of next-generation warfighting capabilities.

Job Responsibilities

As the Technical Director, your core mission involves bridging the gap between emerging technology and operational requirements. Your responsibilities include:

Systems Architecture: Designing and integrating system-of-systems capabilities for advanced effect chains.
Interdisciplinary Leadership: Leading cross-functional teams in software, hardware, autonomy, and non-kinetic effects.
Strategic Oversight: Implementing the Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA) and driving technical risk reduction strategies.
Stakeholder Engagement: Acting as the lead technical point of contact across various military services and operational domains.

Requirements

To be considered for this high-level position, you must meet stringent federal and professional criteria:

Citizenship: You must be a U.S. Citizen.
Specialized Experience: You must possess at least one year of experience at the DP-04 level or equivalent.
Academic Background: Completion of a degree in Engineering, Physics, Operations Research, Mathematics, or Computer Science, meeting specific OPM series requirements.
Clearance: Ability to hold a high-risk Special-Sensitive security clearance.

Comparison of Qualifications

Qualification Area	Requirement
Education	ABET-accredited degree or equivalent major
Experience	1+ year at DP-04 or equivalent
Security	Special-Sensitive/High Risk
Certification	Professional Engineering (PE) or FE preferred

Salary Overview

This position offers a highly competitive compensation package commensurate with the scope of the responsibility. The annual salary range is $143,913 to $197,200.

Benefits

The Navy offers a comprehensive federal benefits package, including:

Robust health insurance options.
Generous retirement programs (FERS/TSP).
Ample paid time off.
Ongoing professional development and training.

Application Tips

Focus on Accomplishments: In your two-page resume, prioritize achievements over job descriptions.
Check Your Documentation: Ensure your transcripts clearly match the OPM series requirements.
Use the Builder: The USAJOBS resume builder is the most effective way to include all required data.

This role is an exceptional opportunity for a senior-level engineer to lead critical national security initiatives. If you meet the qualifications and are ready to take the next step in your career, ensure your application is submitted by the deadline.

Why This Interdisciplinary Engineer/Scientist Job Matters

Shape the future of naval warfare as a Technical Director for Technology Maturation and Transition at NAWCAD, leading high-stakes engineering projects that redefine the modern battlefield.

Interdisciplinary Engineer/Scientist Job Overview

The Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division (NAWCAD) is seeking a highly skilled Interdisciplinary Engineer/Scientist to serve as the Technical Director for the PMA-298 Technology Maturation and Risk Reduction IPT. In this role, you will architect system-of-systems solutions, oversee advanced avionics development, and lead multi-disciplinary teams in high-security environments. You will directly influence the acquisition lifecycle, bridging the gap between cutting-edge research and mission-ready military capabilities at Patuxent River, Maryland.

Requirements for Interdisciplinary Engineer/Scientist

U.S. Citizenship is required.
Must meet OPM qualification standards for the specific occupational series (0801, 1310, 1515, 1520, or 1550).
One year of specialized experience at the DP-04 pay band level or equivalent.
Ability to obtain and maintain a Special-Sensitive (High Risk) security clearance with access to Sensitive Compartmented Information.
Must pass a pre-employment drug test.
Completion of a relevant bachelor's degree or equivalent combination of education and professional experience.

Preferred Qualifications for Interdisciplinary Engineer/Scientist

Extensive experience in the development, integration, and risk reduction of advanced avionics and sensors.
Proven expertise in managing systems engineering processes, trade studies, and requirements throughout the acquisition lifecycle.
Demonstrated ability to apply Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA) principles.
Strong leadership skills in coordinating multi-disciplinary teams across hardware, software, and artificial intelligence domains.
Experience presenting high-level technical evaluations to senior program leadership.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive Federal salary structure.
✓Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance options.
✓Generous paid annual and sick leave, plus federal holidays.
✓Defined benefit retirement plan (FERS) and Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with agency matching.
✓Professional development and continuous training opportunities.
✓Work-life balance with telework eligibility.

💡 How to Apply Interdisciplinary Engineer/Scientist Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Interdisciplinary Engineer/Scientist Job

Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
Prepare a resume that is strictly limited to 2 pages.
Ensure your resume details job titles, dates of employment, and specific accomplishments matching the requirements.
Upload required documents, including transcripts and SF-50s if applicable.
Complete the online application through the official portal before the closing date.
Review your application status via the USAJOBS dashboard.

💡 General Tips

Use the USAJOBS Resume Builder to ensure all required fields are included.
Highlight specific technical achievements rather than listing general duties.
Verify that your transcripts clearly demonstrate the required academic coursework.
Submit all documentation before the deadline; late submissions will not be reviewed.
If you are a veteran, ensure your DD-214 is current and complete.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the security clearance level for this position?

This position requires a Special-Sensitive (High Risk) security clearance and the ability to work with Sensitive Compartmented Information.

Is this position eligible for telework?

Yes, this role is telework eligible, depending on mission requirements and supervisor approval.

What is the closing date for applications?

*A: The position closes on September 1, 2026.*

Is relocation assistance provided?

*A: It may be offered based on funding availability and agency policy.*

Job from Naval Air Systems Command

The Department of the Navy provides an unparalleled environment for engineers and scientists to blend purpose with patriotism. By working at NAWCAD, you become part of an innovative team dedicated to safeguarding national security. You will have access to competitive salaries, professional growth, and the opportunity to work on projects that span from unmanned systems to artificial intelligence.