Become an Aerospace Engineer for the NTSB: Protecting Aviation Safety

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) stands as a pillar of transportation safety in the United States. Tasked with the objective investigation of every civil aviation accident, the agency relies on the expertise of seasoned professionals to determine root causes and prevent future tragedies. We are currently recruiting for an Aerospace Engineer (Helicopters) to join our Office of Aviation Safety. This role is more than just an engineering position; it is a critical contribution to the safety of the flying public.

Job Responsibilities

As a GS-14 Aerospace Engineer, you will serve as the Helicopter Airworthiness Group Chairperson. Key duties include:

Leading on-site investigations to identify root causes of helicopter malfunctions.
Designing comprehensive inspection and testing plans for critical components.
Collaborating with Investigators-in-Charge to produce detailed factual and analysis reports.
Developing actionable safety recommendations to mitigate future hazards.

Requirements

To be eligible, candidates must possess a bachelor's degree in engineering or equivalent specialized experience, along with:

One year of specialized experience at the GS-13 level.
Proven expertise in helicopter structures, powerplants, and control systems.
Ability to perform in high-pressure, rugged environments during accident recovery efforts.

Salary and Comparison

This role offers a competitive federal salary, commensurate with the high level of technical responsibility required.

Pay Level	Annual Salary Range
GS-14	$143,913 - $187,093

Benefits

Beyond the salary, the NTSB provides a robust federal benefits package, including:

Comprehensive healthcare.
Retirement plans (FERS).
Generous paid time off.
Flexible work arrangements including telework options.

Application Tips

Focus on Details: Ensure your resume clearly states your specific engineering duties and dates of employment.
Transcripts: Don't forget to attach your unofficial or official transcripts.
Submission: Submit your application well before the deadline to account for potential technical delays.

If you are an engineer passionate about safety and precision, this role at the NTSB offers an unparalleled opportunity to make a tangible difference in the aviation industry.

Why This Aerospace Engineer (Helicopters) - Direct Hire Job Matters

Join the elite team at the NTSB and play a pivotal role in advancing aviation safety by leading high-stakes helicopter accident investigations.

Aerospace Engineer (Helicopters) - Direct Hire Job Overview

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is seeking an expert Aerospace Engineer specializing in helicopters to serve within the Office of Aviation Safety. As a critical member of the go-team, you will conduct objective, technical investigations into helicopter accidents, providing authoritative engineering analysis on powerplants, structures, and flight dynamics. Your work will directly inform safety recommendations, regulatory compliance, and industry-wide aviation standards.

Requirements for Aerospace Engineer (Helicopters) - Direct Hire

Bachelor's degree in professional engineering from an ABET-accredited institution, or a combination of education and experience equivalent to engineering standards.
One year of specialized experience at the GS-13 level in the federal service, or equivalent private sector experience.
Demonstrated expertise in engineering evaluation of helicopter components (powerplants, structures, control systems, and dynamics).
Experience in root cause failure analysis, hazard analysis, and authoring formal technical engineering reports.
Ability to act as a technical authority for external stakeholders, including major manufacturers and aviation organizations.
U.S. Citizenship.
Submission of complete application package, including official or unofficial transcripts, by the closing date.

Preferred Qualifications for Aerospace Engineer (Helicopters) - Direct Hire

Professional Engineering (PE) licensure or Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification.
Experience in leading technical group investigations within an aviation safety context.
Strong communication skills for presenting complex engineering data to diverse stakeholders.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
✓Comprehensive health insurance options.
✓Flexible work schedules and telework opportunities.
✓Transit and fitness subsidies.
✓Defined benefit retirement plans and Thrift Savings Plan (401k equivalent).

💡 How to Apply Aerospace Engineer (Helicopters) - Direct Hire Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Aerospace Engineer (Helicopters) - Direct Hire Job

Review the full announcement carefully.
Prepare a detailed, two-page resume highlighting specialized helicopter engineering experience.
Complete the online questionnaire and attach all required documentation, including transcripts.
Click the Apply Online button and submit your application via the USAJOBS portal.
Monitor your email for a unique link to the USA Hire assessment if required.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume explicitly lists hours worked per week, pay plan, series, and grade for federal experience.
Do not assume the hiring team knows your capabilities; explicitly state how your background meets the specialized experience requirements.
Complete and submit all required documentation, including transcripts, before the 11:59 PM ET deadline on the closing date.
Use the USA Hire Applicant Resource Center for practice materials before taking the assessment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a remote position?

No, this position is located in Washington, D.C. While the agency supports telework eligibility, the nature of the work requires travel and on-site investigation presence.

What is Direct Hire Authority?

Direct Hire Authority allows agencies to hire for positions without applying competitive rating and ranking procedures, including veterans' preference, to expedite the hiring of qualified candidates.

What is the travel requirement?

As part of the 'go-team,' you will travel frequently on short notice to accident sites, both domestic and international.

Is a security clearance required?

While not a traditional clearance, this position involves high-risk/sensitivity roles requiring thorough suitability vetting.

Job from National Transportation Safety Board

The NTSB is an independent federal agency that operates without bias, dedicated to finding the truth behind accidents. Our investigators are known globally for their technical rigor and commitment to public service. From marine and rail to commercial space and aviation, the NTSB’s recommendations shape the future of transportation safety.