Become a Naval Architect with the U.S. Coast Guard

The U.S. Coast Guard is currently accepting applications for a GS-14 Naval Architect position in Washington, D.C. This is an exceptional opportunity for a seasoned engineer to influence the design, maintenance, and acquisition of the nation’s maritime fleet. If you are ready to pivot your career toward a mission-driven environment, this role offers unparalleled professional challenges and stability.

Job Responsibilities

In this role, you will lead high-stakes engineering projects. Key duties include:

Technical Oversight: Monitoring shipyard operations and contractor processes to ensure adherence to standards.
Design Coordination: Managing multi-purpose conversion and construction projects for specialized vessels.
Strategic Analysis: Evaluating procurement actions, budget forecasting, and engineering economics.
Policy Guidance: Acting as an advisor to senior leadership regarding organizational engineering and policy issues.

Requirements

Qualification Type	Requirement
Citizenship	U.S. Citizen
Education	Professional Engineering Degree (ABET)
Experience	Min. 1 year at GS-13 level
Security	Must pass background investigation

Salary Overview

This position is classified as a GS-14 with an annual salary range of $143,913 to $187,093, commensurate with experience and federal pay scale regulations.

Benefits

Employees of the DHS enjoy a robust benefits package, including a comprehensive health insurance, federal pension, the Thrift Savings Plan, and numerous opportunities for professional growth, including tuition reimbursement.

Application Tips

Stick to the two-page resume limit.
Be specific with your work history dates and hours.
Submit all required transcripts as early as possible.
Ensure your essay responses are original and reflective.

Serving as a Naval Architect for the U.S. Coast Guard is a high-level opportunity that combines engineering excellence with public service. Submit your application today to join a team dedicated to safeguarding our nation's future.

Why This Naval Architect Job Matters

Shape the future of the high-seas fleet as a senior Naval Architect with the U.S. Coast Guard, leading critical engineering initiatives in our nation's capital.

Naval Architect Job Overview

The U.S. Coast Guard is seeking a highly skilled Naval Architect to join the Major Systems Acquisition Program Manager team in Washington, D.C. In this high-impact GS-14 role, you will serve as a primary technical advisor and consultant, providing expert guidance on complex vessel design, construction, and lifecycle management. You will play a pivotal role in ensuring the integrity of our maritime assets, contributing to projects that maintain national security and operational readiness on a global scale.

Requirements for Naval Architect

Must be a U.S. citizen.
Must be registered or exempt from Selective Service requirements.
Possess a professional engineering degree from an ABET-accredited curriculum or equivalent combination of education and experience.
Minimum of one year of specialized experience at the GS-13 level or equivalent.
Must pass a security clearance background investigation.
Must reside or be willing to relocate to Washington, D.C.
Adherence to a two-page maximum limit for your professional resume.

Preferred Qualifications for Naval Architect

Active professional engineering licensure (PE).
Evidence of successful completion of the Engineer-in-Training (EIT) examination.
Proven track record in managing large-scale maritime acquisition or shipyard production programs.
Expertise in engineering economics and budget analysis for complex multi-year projects.
Advanced experience in Test and Evaluation (T&E) planning for naval systems.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance options.
✓Federal retirement pension plan.
✓Thrift Savings Plan (401k-style) with employer matching.
✓Paid federal holidays and generous personal leave accrual.
✓Flexible work schedules and telework opportunities.
✓Tuition reimbursement and professional development programs.
✓On-site fitness centers and health/wellness initiatives.
✓Transportation subsidies for commuters.

💡 How to Apply Naval Architect Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Naval Architect Job

Create or update your profile on the official federal employment portal.
Prepare a resume strictly limited to two pages with font size at least 10pt and 0.5-inch margins.
Upload required documentation, including unofficial transcripts and proof of current/former federal service (if applicable).
Complete the online vacancy questionnaire.
Submit your application before the closing date of September 8, 2026.

💡 General Tips

Do not include personal identifiers such as your Social Security Number, date of birth, or photos on your resume.
Clearly outline your work experience with specific start/end dates and the number of hours worked per week.
Ensure your resume demonstrates specialized experience without simply copying language from the job announcement.
Check your application status frequently via your account dashboard.
Take time to write thoughtful, original responses to the essay questions provided in the questionnaire.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the educational requirement for this position?

You must hold a degree in professional engineering from an ABET-accredited school or meet specific coursework requirements in physical, mathematical, and engineering sciences.

Is telework available for this position?

Yes, this position is eligible for telework, allowing for flexible work arrangements in alignment with agency policy.

What is the maximum length for my resume?

Your resume must be exactly two pages or shorter. Applications exceeding this limit will be automatically disqualified.

Job from U.S. Coast Guard

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the U.S. Coast Guard are responsible for securing the nation's borders and maritime interests. As a civilian member of this team, you are not just an employee; you are a vital contributor to national security, working alongside a diverse workforce in one of the most critical sectors of the federal government.