Become a Training Instructor at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard
Are you an expert in technical training with a passion for naval operations? The Department of the Navy is seeking a skilled Training Instructor to join the Lifting & Handling Department at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard in Kittery, Maine. This position is a cornerstone of the shipyard's success, ensuring that the next generation of engineers and tradespeople are fully prepared to maintain our nation's naval assets.
Job Responsibilities
As a Training Instructor, you will act as a bridge between complex technical requirements and the workforce. Your core responsibilities include:
- Developing and revising course materials that meet objective standards.
- Delivering effective classroom instruction, practical demonstrations, and mock-up simulations.
- Integrating systematic work requirements into training curriculum.
- Assessing student performance and adjusting teaching methods to improve outcomes.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary Range | $84,579 - $109,959 |
| Location | Kittery, ME |
| Series | 1712 Training Instruction |
| Security Clearance | Secret |
Requirements
To qualify for this GS-11 level position, you must possess at least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-09 grade level. Your experience must reflect your ability to instruct personnel in a technical environment, preferably within the electrical or engineering trades. Candidates should also be prepared to submit official transcripts if leveraging education as a substitute for experience.
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a highly competitive annual salary ranging from $84,579 to $109,959. Beyond the base pay, civilian Navy employees enjoy a comprehensive federal benefits package, which includes:
- Robust health and life insurance options.
- Retirement savings programs, including the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- Generous annual and sick leave accrual.
- Ongoing opportunities for professional development and career advancement.
Application Tips
To maximize your chances, keep your resume concise—strictly limited to two pages. Ensure you clearly state your job title, dates of employment, and specific duties that align with the requirements listed in the announcement. If you are a current federal employee, remember to include relevant SF-50 forms to verify your time-in-grade.
Working as a Training Instructor at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard is a unique opportunity to combine your passion for teaching with a meaningful national security mission. With excellent pay, a supportive work environment, and the chance to shape the skills of top-tier tradespeople, this role is a perfect step for any dedicated professional. Apply today to start your career with the Navy.
Why This Training Instructor Job Matters
Shape the future of naval engineering excellence as a Training Instructor at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard.
Training Instructor Job Overview
Join the Lifting & Handling Department at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard in Kittery, Maine. This pivotal role involves instructing a diverse workforce—including tradespeople, engineers, and apprentices—to ensure they possess the technical expertise required to maintain and modernize the U.S. Navy fleet. This is an incredible opportunity to leverage your specialized technical background to develop curriculum and conduct hands-on training.
Requirements for Training Instructor
- Must have at least one year of specialized experience at or equivalent to the GS-09 grade level.
- Must demonstrate experience in presenting course material to diverse groups including tradespeople and engineers.
- Proven ability to update and improve training curriculum based on performance evaluation criteria.
- Practical knowledge of engineering and trade theories, specifically regarding electrical training.
- Ability to utilize classroom instruction, demonstrations, and mock-up simulations.
- U.S. Citizenship is required.
- Must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
Preferred Qualifications for Training Instructor
- Possession of a Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree.
- Completion of three full years of progressively higher-level graduate education in a related field.
- Proven history of adapting training methodologies for various learning styles.
- Experience with integrated systematic work requirements in an industrial or shipyard environment.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary package.
- ✓Comprehensive health insurance options.
- ✓Federal retirement benefits (FERS).
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training.
- ✓Paid vacation and sick leave.
- ✓Eligibility for telework.
💡 How to Apply Training Instructor Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Training Instructor Job
- Prepare a resume no longer than 2 pages that highlights your relevant experience and specific job duties.
- Click the Apply Online button on the official portal to begin your application.
- Answer all required questionnaires and attach supporting documentation (transcripts, SF-50s, etc.).
- Submit your complete application package by the closing date of September 8, 2026.
- If notified, access the USA Hire system to complete the required competency-based assessments within 48 hours.
💡 General Tips
- Use the USAJOBS Resume Builder to ensure all required information is included in your two-page limit.
- Clearly define your experience with dates (month/year) and hours worked per week.
- If applying for a promotion, ensure you provide past SF-50 forms that prove one year of time-in-grade.
- Set aside at least two hours of uninterrupted time to complete the USA Hire assessments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use education to qualify for this role?
Yes, you may substitute a Ph.D. or three years of graduate-level education in a related field for the required specialized experience.
What is the security clearance requirement?
This position requires a Secret security clearance.
Is this a permanent position?
The position is currently listed as 'Not to Exceed One Year' but may be converted to permanent status without further competition.
What if I have a disability that makes taking the assessment difficult?
You can request a Reasonable Accommodation during the application process by following the provided instructions before beginning the assessments.
Will I need to travel?
This position is listed with a minimal travel requirement; check the specific job announcement for the latest updates on duty expectations.
Job from United States Fleet Forces Command
The Department of the Navy offers unparalleled career stability and the chance to contribute to a mission of national importance. Civilian employees are vital to the Navy’s success, providing the expertise that keeps our fleet operational. By working at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, you become part of a storied tradition of engineering excellence and maritime security.
