Become an NGAD Modeling and Simulation Lead: A Career with the Department of the Navy

Are you looking to bridge the gap between complex engineering, scientific research, and national defense? The Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) is currently recruiting for an Interdisciplinary Engineer/Scientist to serve as the Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) National Modeling and Simulation (M&S) Laboratory Lead at China Lake, California. This is an exceptional opportunity for professionals who want to lead technical strategy on some of the most critical platforms in the Navy’s arsenal.

Job Responsibilities

As the NGAD M&S Laboratory Lead, you will provide high-level leadership for the Weapons Modeling, Simulation, and Analysis (MS&A) Division. Your core duties include:

Technical Authority: Serve as the final sign-off authority for M&S software architectures.
Team Leadership: Guide large, cross-site teams of Navy personnel, lab specialists, and contractors.
Requirements Development: Translate complex warfighting requirements into actionable simulation strategies.
Verification & Validation: Oversee robust V&V strategies for high-priority flight platforms, including the F/A-18 and F-35.

Requirements

To qualify for this GS/DP-equivalent position, applicants must meet strict criteria:

Education: A bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Physics, Chemistry, Math, or Computer Science from an accredited institution. Specific coursework in calculus and physics is often mandatory.
Professional Experience: At least one year of experience equivalent to the GS-12/13 level demonstrating expertise in M&S, software architecture, and program support.
Clearance: Must hold or be eligible to obtain a Top Secret clearance.

Salary Overview

The position offers a competitive salary structure commensurate with the high level of responsibility required for the role.

Position Level	Salary Range
NGAD M&S Lead	$146,632 - $197,200

Benefits

Working for the Department of the Navy provides a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your long-term success and well-being:

Federal Health Benefits and life insurance.
Generous retirement programs (FERS and TSP).
Ample paid time off, including federal holidays.
Ongoing professional development, certifications, and training.

Application Tips

The federal hiring process is precise. Follow these tips to ensure your application stands out:

Resume Length: Keep it under two pages. Focus on impactful accomplishments related to M&S, systems engineering, and team leadership.
Clear Documentation: Ensure all transcripts, performance awards, and SF-50s are clear and legible. Missing documents result in immediate disqualification.
Use the Resume Builder: This tool helps ensure all mandatory fields (dates, pay grades, hours per week) are captured correctly.

If you are a seasoned engineer or scientist with a passion for defense technology, this role at China Lake is a rare chance to influence the future of air dominance. Apply before September 10, 2026, to take the next step in your career with the Department of the Navy.

Why This Interdisciplinary Engineer/Scientist Job Matters

Shape the future of air superiority as a Lead Engineer and Scientist for the Department of the Navy at China Lake.

Interdisciplinary Engineer/Scientist Job Overview

The Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) is seeking a highly skilled Interdisciplinary Engineer/Scientist to serve as the Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) National Modeling and Simulation (M&S) Laboratory Lead. Based in China Lake, California, this critical role places you at the forefront of research and development for advanced weapons systems. You will lead cross-functional teams in complex M&S architecture development, verification and validation strategies, and program execution, ensuring our warfighters have the most advanced capabilities available.

Requirements for Interdisciplinary Engineer/Scientist

U.S. Citizenship is required.
Must be able to obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance.
Must pass a mandatory drug screening.
Possess a bachelor's degree in engineering or a relevant scientific field (Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, or Computer Science) with specific course requirements.
Minimum of one year of specialized experience at the next lower grade level (GS-12/13 or DP-04 equivalent).
Expertise in modeling and simulation, requirements development, and verification and validation (V&V).
Demonstrated ability to manage program cost, schedule, and performance.

Preferred Qualifications for Interdisciplinary Engineer/Scientist

Proven experience leading large, cross-site, multi-disciplinary technical teams.
Hands-on experience with military airwing platforms such as F/A-18 or F-35.
Professional engineering licensure (PE) or Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification.
Experience in software architecture for high-stakes research environments.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive federal salary with annual adjustments.
✓Comprehensive health and life insurance options.
✓Federal retirement benefits including FERS and Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
✓Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
✓Opportunities for professional development and training.
✓Telework eligibility.

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

Application Steps for Interdisciplinary Engineer/Scientist Job

Log in or create an account on USAJOBS.
Prepare a resume restricted to a maximum of 2 pages.
Ensure your resume explicitly details employer names, dates of employment, and relevant pay scales.
Upload all required supporting documents (transcripts, SF-50s, DD-214, etc.).
Submit your complete application package before the closing date of September 10, 2026.

💡 General Tips

Use the USAJOBS Resume Builder to ensure all federal requirements are met.
Be specific with your technical achievements—quantify your impact on M&S projects.
Double-check your transcripts and SF-50 documentation before uploading.
Focus your resume on the required competencies: Modeling and Simulation, Systems Engineering, and Software Engineering.
Submit early to avoid technical issues as the deadline approaches.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the security clearance requirement for this position?

This role requires a Top Secret security clearance, as it is classified as a Special-Sensitive (SS)/High-Risk position.

Is this position eligible for remote work?

While the position is telework eligible, it is not a fully remote role and requires onsite presence at China Lake, California.

Job from Naval Air Systems Command

The Department of the Navy is a pillar of national security, dedicated to protecting the country through maritime superiority. Working at China Lake offers a unique environment where civilian and military experts converge to test, evaluate, and develop next-generation weapon systems. When you join the Navy as a civilian, you gain more than just a job; you become part of an organization that values purpose, innovation, and technological excellence.