Launch Your Career: Technical Project Manager at Naval Surface Warfare Center
Are you an experienced engineer ready to take the helm on high-stakes defense projects? The Naval Surface Warfare Center (NSWC), Port Hueneme Division, is currently seeking a highly skilled Technical Project Manager to join our mission-critical team. This role offers a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of advanced engineering and national security, providing direct oversight of developmental testing for state-of-the-art combat systems.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will lead the technical planning and execution of developmental test and evaluation (DT&E) activities. Key duties include:
- Engineering Oversight: Applying advanced principles to ensure systems meet safety and performance standards.
- Risk Management: Proactively identifying technical risks and translating test results into clear, actionable data for leadership.
- Strategic Coordination: Leading multidisciplinary teams and managing project budgets to meet acquisition milestones.
Quick Comparison: Role Focus
| Focus Area | Responsibility |
|---|---|
| Technical | System performance and DT&E execution |
| Financial | Budget management and resource allocation |
| Leadership | Multidisciplinary team direction |
Requirements
To be considered for this position, applicants must meet specific federal engineering standards. This includes holding a relevant engineering degree or possessing equivalent scientific qualifications. Candidates must demonstrate at least one year of specialized experience at the ND-04 or GS-12/13 level, with a strong emphasis on system testing and project leadership.
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $146,632 to $197,200 annually. Beyond the pay, employees enjoy comprehensive federal benefits, including:
- Health and life insurance plans.
- Retirement savings via the Thrift Savings Plan.
- Paid leave and federal holidays.
- Training and tuition assistance.
Application Tips
Your resume is your most important document. Keep it concise (maximum 2 pages), focus on your accomplishments rather than just duties, and ensure every detail, such as hours worked per week and grade levels, is explicitly stated.
This is more than just a job; it is a chance to apply your technical brilliance to a mission that safeguards our freedoms. If you are ready to lead and innovate, apply today.
Why This Technical Project Manager Job Matters
Ready to shape the future of naval defense technology? Lead critical developmental testing programs at the forefront of surface warfare and sensors innovation.
Technical Project Manager Job Overview
The Naval Surface Warfare Center, Port Hueneme Division, is seeking a high-level Technical Project Manager to oversee developmental test and evaluation (DT&E) for advanced combat systems. In this role, you will navigate the complex defense acquisition lifecycle, ensuring mission-ready systems are delivered through data-driven performance evaluations, rigorous risk mitigation, and strategic resource management.
Requirements for Technical Project Manager
- Possess a professional engineering degree from an ABET-accredited institution or a degree in a relevant scientific field (physics, math, etc.) with professional experience.
- Demonstrate at least one year of specialized experience at the ND-04 or GS-12/13 equivalent level.
- Proven ability to lead DT&E programs within a defense acquisition lifecycle.
- Current registration as an Engineer Intern (EIT) or Professional Engineer (PE) is highly valued.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) security clearance.
- Willingness to undergo mandatory pre-employment drug testing.
Preferred Qualifications for Technical Project Manager
- Advanced expertise in managing complex project budgets and long-range financial planning.
- Strong background in multidisciplinary team leadership and stakeholder management.
- Demonstrated experience in evaluating system performance and mitigating technical risks for combat systems.
- Expertise in communicating data-driven findings to executive leadership for milestone decisions.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary packages.
- ✓Comprehensive healthcare, vision, and dental insurance plans.
- ✓Generous retirement contributions and investment options.
- ✓Extensive professional development and training programs.
- ✓Work-life balance with telework eligibility.
- ✓Opportunities for recruitment and relocation incentives based on eligibility.
💡 How to Apply Technical Project Manager Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Technical Project Manager Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a targeted resume (maximum 2 pages) highlighting your specific technical achievements and federal experience.
- Gather all supporting documentation including transcripts, SF-50s, and professional certifications.
- Complete the online application questionnaire within the USAJOBS portal.
- Submit your application package before the closing date of September 29, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Use the USAJOBS Resume Builder to ensure all mandatory information like hours per week and pay scales are captured.
- Ensure your resume explicitly maps your experience to the specialized requirements listed in the announcement.
- Double-check that all uploaded documents (transcripts, licenses) are legible.
- Avoid submitting multiple resumes; only the most recent version will be considered.
- Do not email documents; use the online portal to ensure they reach the appropriate human resources office.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the pay band for this position?
This role is part of the Warfare Centers Personnel Demonstration Project under the ND-5 pay band, which is generally equivalent to the GS-14/15 grade levels.
Is telework available?
Yes, this position is eligible for telework, depending on the specific duties and agency policy requirements.
Can I submit my application via email?
No, all applications must be submitted through the USAJOBS portal. Hard copies or emailed resumes will be destroyed.
Job from Naval Sea Systems Command
The Department of the Navy is committed to excellence, innovation, and service. As part of the Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA), the Port Hueneme Division serves as a critical hub for weapons and combat systems support. Working here means joining a diverse community of scientists, engineers, and support professionals dedicated to ensuring our fleet remains the best in the world.