Engineering the Future: Structural Engineer Roles with the USACE
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) is a cornerstone of American infrastructure, and the Memphis District is currently seeking a talented Structural Civil Engineer to join its Design Branch. If you are an engineering professional looking to work on projects that directly impact national safety and resilience, this position offers a unique pathway for career advancement.
Job Responsibilities
As a Structural Engineer, your primary responsibilities will include:
- Design & Analysis: Creating structural plans using CAD and BIM software.
- Technical Guidance: Assisting junior staff and collaborating with other agencies.
- Inspections: Performing technical and special inspections to verify project status.
- Collaboration: Coordinating with private and public stakeholders to meet project criteria.
Requirements
To qualify, applicants must possess a bachelor's degree (or higher) in engineering from an ABET-accredited program or meet specific coursework benchmarks in math and science. Candidates must also demonstrate specialized experience relevant to their target grade level.
Grade Level Comparison
| Grade Level | Education Requirement | Experience Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| GS-7 | Bachelor's Degree / Superior Academic Achievement | 1 Year Specialized |
| GS-9 | Master's Degree / 2 Years Grad Study | 1 Year Specialized |
| GS-11 | Ph.D. / 3 Years Grad Study | 1 Year Specialized |
| GS-12 | Not Substitutable | 1 Year Specialized |
Benefits
Working as a federal employee provides substantial rewards, including:
- Competitive federal health and retirement benefits (FERS).
- Paid leave and federal holidays.
- Training and career development pathways.
- Flexible telework options.
Application Tips
- Respect the Page Limit: Your resume must be two pages or less.
- Documentation: Always include your official transcripts if relying on education to qualify.
- Clarity: Use plain language and avoid internal agency jargon.
This role is an excellent opportunity for engineers at various stages of their careers to contribute to meaningful infrastructure projects. With a clear path to GS-12 and a culture dedicated to engineering excellence, now is the time to submit your application.
Why This Civil Engineer (Structural) Job Matters
Join the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in Memphis and help engineer the future of our nation through high-impact structural design projects.
Civil Engineer (Structural) Job Overview
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) is seeking a motivated Structural Civil Engineer to join the Memphis District. This developmental role allows for growth from GS-7 through GS-12, offering the chance to work on vital infrastructure, flood protection, and defense facility projects. You will be responsible for creating design plans, conducting technical inspections, and collaborating with a team of expert engineers to build national resilience.
Requirements for Civil Engineer (Structural)
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Bachelor’s degree or higher in an engineering field accredited by ABET or meeting specific science/math curriculum requirements.
- Ability to demonstrate specialized experience in structural engineering commensurate with the grade level applied for.
- Must submit official transcripts if qualifying based on education.
- Must be able to pass a background check and complete a 1-year probationary period.
- Must adhere to selective service registration requirements if applicable.
Preferred Qualifications for Civil Engineer (Structural)
- Professional Engineer (PE) licensure.
- Engineer in Training (EIT) or Engineer Intern (EI) certification.
- Proficiency in CAD and BIM software for structural design.
- Experience in government contracting or project submittal review.
- Previous professional experience under the guidance of a licensed engineer.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
- ✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- ✓Flexible spending accounts and life insurance options.
- ✓Paid federal holidays, annual leave, and sick leave.
- ✓Opportunities for non-competitive promotion to the target GS-12 grade.
- ✓Potential recruitment or relocation incentives at management's discretion.
- ✓Telework eligibility.
💡 How to Apply Civil Engineer (Structural) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Civil Engineer (Structural) Job
- Review the full job announcement on USAJOBS.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less.
- Gather supporting documents such as transcripts and professional licenses.
- Log into your USAJOBS account to access the online questionnaire.
- Complete the application and re-select your uploaded documents to ensure they attach correctly.
- Submit your package before the 11:59 PM EST deadline on December 2, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume to two pages; longer resumes will be automatically rejected.
- Avoid acronyms and use clear, plain language to describe your experience.
- Ensure your resume includes employer names, job titles, and specific hours worked per week.
- Upload transcripts immediately, as they are mandatory for education-based qualification.
- Submit your application early to allow for the automated virus scan of your documents.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position open to the public?
Yes, this is an open-to-the-public announcement.
What is the promotion potential for this job?
This is a developmental position with a target grade of GS-12. If selected at a lower level (GS-7, 9, or 11), you may be promoted non-competitively as you meet time-in-grade and performance requirements.
Can I substitute education for experience?
For GS-7 through GS-11, education can be used to qualify. However, for the GS-12 level, you must meet the qualification requirements using professional experience alone.
Is relocation assistance provided?
Relocation incentives may be authorized at management's discretion.
When is the first application review?
The first cut-off date for application review is September 28, 2026.
Job from U.S. Army Corps Of Engineers
The USACE is responsible for a vast array of projects, ranging from flood risk management and navigation to environmental restoration and the construction of facilities for the armed forces. Joining the Memphis District means becoming part of a legacy that prioritizes professional excellence, technical innovation, and public service.