Lead Systems Engineer: Advanced Careers at the Naval Undersea Warfare Center
The Naval Undersea Warfare Center (NUWC) Division Newport is at the forefront of naval technology. We are currently searching for highly skilled Lead Systems Engineers and Scientists to join our elite team. If you are passionate about national security, advanced undersea research, and systems integration, this is your opportunity to drive innovation within the Department of the Navy.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will lead complex projects, design and test undersea systems, and provide technical oversight across the entire development lifecycle. You will serve as the technical authority on Integrated Product Teams and high-level committees.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Position Title | Engineer or Scientist (Lead Systems Engineer) |
| Location | Naval Base Newport, RI |
| Salary Range | $101,375 - $197,200 |
| Closing Date | October 6, 2026 |
Requirements
Candidates must possess professional engineering or scientific degrees and demonstrate at least one year of specialized experience at the relevant pay band. Successful applicants will exhibit strong systems engineering, communication, and R&D capabilities.
Salary Overview
This position offers a highly competitive annual salary range commensurate with experience and federal pay band structures.
Benefits
Employees enjoy a robust federal benefits package, including health insurance, retirement options, paid time off, and extensive professional development opportunities.
Application Tips
Ensure your resume is no more than two pages and explicitly covers your technical achievements. Utilize the USAJOBS Resume Builder for best results.
Join us at NUWC Newport and contribute to the vital mission of protecting our nation's maritime interests through superior engineering and scientific achievement.
Why This Engineer Or Scientist Job Matters
Shape the future of naval defense technology. Join the Naval Undersea Warfare Center as a Lead Systems Engineer or Scientist and drive innovation in critical undersea warfare systems.
Engineer Or Scientist Job Overview
The Naval Undersea Warfare Center (NUWC) Division Newport is seeking expert engineers and scientists to serve as a Lead Systems Engineer (LSE). In this pivotal role, you will oversee the design, development, and implementation of cutting-edge undersea weapons, vehicles, and defense systems. You will lead diverse technical teams, coordinate with cross-functional partners including industry and academia, and provide authoritative guidance on complex engineering solutions to ensure the Navy's technological superiority.
Requirements for Engineer Or Scientist
- U.S. Citizenship is required.
- Must meet OPM qualification standards for the 0801, 1301, 1501, or 1550 occupational series.
- Minimum of one year of specialized experience at the ND-04 (or equivalent) pay band for ND-05 consideration.
- Minimum of one year of specialized experience at the ND-03 (or equivalent) pay band for ND-04 consideration.
- Relevant engineering or scientific degree from an accredited institution.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
- Submission of a complete application package including a resume (maximum 2 pages) and supporting documentation by the closing date.
Preferred Qualifications for Engineer Or Scientist
- Expertise in Department of Defense systems engineering standards.
- Proven track record in leading multi-level technical task groups.
- Strong proficiency in systems engineering technical reviews (SETRs).
- Demonstrated ability to communicate complex technical information to senior leadership.
- Extensive experience in undersea warfare technologies and integration processes.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
- ✓Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) and Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- ✓Generous annual leave and sick leave accrual.
- ✓Paid federal holidays.
- ✓Extensive professional development and continuous training programs.
- ✓Opportunities for telework eligibility.
- ✓Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives for qualified candidates.
💡 How to Apply Engineer Or Scientist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Engineer Or Scientist Job
- Prepare a concise resume (maximum 2 pages) detailing relevant professional experience, including dates, hours, and pay grade.
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Complete the online assessment questionnaire.
- Upload all required supporting documents, including transcripts and SF-50 forms if applicable.
- Submit your application before the October 6, 2026, deadline.
- Monitor your application status through the USAJOBS dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Use the USAJOBS Resume Builder to ensure all mandatory employment information is included.
- Focus your two-page resume on demonstrating the specific competencies listed in the job duties.
- Redact sensitive PII from your documents if preferred, but ensure they are legible.
- Apply well before the deadline to account for potential system delays.
- Clearly highlight your experience in managing technical budgets and project schedules.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum resume length?
Resumes are strictly limited to two pages. Applications exceeding this limit or providing unreadable documents will not be considered.
Is a security clearance required?
Yes, this position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
Can I submit my application via email?
No, applications must be submitted through the USAJOBS platform. Emails sent to the contact address will be destroyed.
What are the primary competencies?
We look for expertise in Systems Engineering, Research and Development, and effective communication skills.
Is this role telework eligible?
Yes, this position is eligible for telework under departmental guidelines.
Job from Naval Sea Systems Command
NUWC Division Newport serves as the Navy's full-spectrum research, development, test, and evaluation center for undersea warfare systems. Our mission is to provide the critical technology needed to keep our fleet effective and secure in the undersea domain.