Advance Your Career as a Civil Engineer with the Bureau of Reclamation
Are you an experienced engineer looking for a position that combines professional expertise with a commitment to public service? The Bureau of Reclamation (BOR) is currently seeking a highly motivated and skilled Civil Engineer to join our team in McCook, Nebraska. This role offers the chance to work at the intersection of infrastructure development and water resource management, contributing to the stability and prosperity of the American West.
Job Responsibilities
As a Civil Engineer, your primary responsibilities will include:
- Reservoir Operations: Conducting complex studies and developing annual/short-term operation plans using runoff forecasting techniques.
- Infrastructure Oversight: Managing the design and maintenance of critical water infrastructure projects.
- Stakeholder Coordination: Liaising with federal, state, and private organizations to ensure project goals are aligned with regional needs.
- Technical Leadership: Providing guidance to lower-graded team members and reviewing emergency action plans.
Requirements
Candidates must be U.S. citizens and meet the specific educational and experience benchmarks established for the GS-12 series. Key requirements include:
- Education: A bachelor's degree in engineering or a combination of education and experience that demonstrates core engineering knowledge.
- Experience: One year of specialized experience at the GS-11 grade level (or non-federal equivalent) involving infrastructure design or management.
- Documentation: You must submit a clean, two-page resume and a current performance appraisal.
Salary Overview
The salary for this position is competitive, ranging from $104,502 to $127,443 per year. As a federal employee, you will also be eligible for various performance-based incentives and the standard federal benefits package.
Compensation at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary Range | $104,502 - $127,443 |
| Pay Scale | GS-12 |
| Location | McCook, Nebraska |
| Benefits | Full Federal Benefits Package |
Benefits
Employees of the Bureau of Reclamation enjoy comprehensive benefits, including:
- Health, vision, and dental insurance.
- Flexible Retirement options (FERS).
- Generous paid time off (annual and sick leave).
- A focus on work-life balance through telework opportunities.
Application Tips
- Be Precise: Use the month-year format for all dates on your resume.
- Follow Format Rules: Keep your resume to exactly two pages with 0.5-inch margins.
- Include Performance Data: Ensure your most recent performance appraisal is attached or provide a statement explaining its absence.
- Highlight Leadership: Emphasize any experience you have in project management or interagency coordination.
This position is an excellent opportunity for a seasoned engineer to make a tangible difference in water resource management. If you meet the qualifications and are ready to advance your career, prepare your application package and apply through USAJobs before the September 10, 2026 deadline.
Why This Civil Engineer Job Matters
Shape the future of water resource management in the American West as a Civil Engineer with the Bureau of Reclamation.
Civil Engineer Job Overview
The Bureau of Reclamation is seeking a dedicated Civil Engineer to join our team in McCook, Nebraska. In this vital role, you will help manage, develop, and protect the nation's precious water resources. You will conduct complex technical studies, oversee reservoir operations, and provide leadership in developing infrastructure solutions that support both environmental health and public utility. This is a unique opportunity to apply your engineering expertise in a mission-driven federal environment.
Requirements for Civil Engineer
- U.S. Citizenship or National status
- Ability to pass a background investigation and suitability check
- Registration with Selective Service for males born after December 31, 1959
- Must hold and maintain a valid driver's license
- Willingness to complete a one-year probationary period
- Proficiency in completing federal documentation, including performance appraisals
- Ability to obtain and maintain a government-issued credit card for travel and purchases
Preferred Qualifications for Civil Engineer
- One year of specialized experience at the GS-11 level (or non-federal equivalent)
- Extensive experience in managing infrastructure projects
- Proven history of coordinating with external stakeholders, federal agencies, and private organizations
- Strong proficiency in reservoir operation modeling and runoff forecasting
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal health, vision, and dental insurance programs
- ✓Comprehensive life insurance coverage
- ✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS)
- ✓Accrual of annual leave and sick leave
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training
- ✓Work-life balance with telework eligibility
💡 How to Apply Civil Engineer Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Civil Engineer Job
- Review the full job announcement carefully to ensure you meet all requirements.
- Prepare a resume not exceeding two pages in length (minimum 10-point font).
- Gather supporting documents: SF-50 (if a current/former federal employee), transcripts, and performance appraisals.
- Click the 'Apply Online' button on USAJobs to navigate to the application portal.
- Complete the required questionnaire and upload all necessary documents.
- Submit your application package before 11:59 PM ET on September 10, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume explicitly details your specialized experience in months and years.
- Include the number of hours worked per week for every position listed on your resume.
- Do not exceed the two-page resume limit, as extra pages will not be reviewed.
- Submit your most recent performance appraisal; if unavailable, include a written explanation.
- Double-check your eligibility documents, such as SF-50s, to ensure they show the correct tenure and grade.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I substitute education for the specialized experience requirement?
No, this specific position requires both the mandatory education and the defined specialized experience. You must meet the criteria as listed in the vacancy announcement.
What happens if I submit more than two pages for my resume?
Per the instructions, your resume must not exceed two single-sided pages. Any content beyond two pages will not be reviewed.
Is travel required for this position?
Yes, this role involves occasional travel for training, meetings, and site visits. Field work may include physical exertion in remote, outdoor, or industrial settings.
Is this role eligible for remote work?
*A: The position is telework-eligible, though regular site visits and office presence in McCook will be required.
What if my performance appraisal is older than 18 months?
*A: You must submit the most recent one you have, along with an explanation regarding why it is older or why no current one is available.
Job from Bureau Of Reclamation
The Department of the Interior’s Bureau of Reclamation is a critical agency responsible for managing and protecting water resources. Our work supports agricultural, industrial, and municipal water needs while ensuring environmental stewardship. By joining the Bureau, you become part of a team dedicated to long-term sustainability and public interest.