Engineering Excellence: Career Opportunities as a Mechanical Engineer with USACE
Are you looking to make a tangible impact on the nation’s infrastructure? The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) is currently seeking a highly skilled Mechanical Engineer to join the team at the Ice Harbor Lock and Dam in Pasco, Washington. This position offers a unique chance to work at the intersection of engineering innovation and public service, ensuring the reliability of hydroelectric power generation.
Job Responsibilities
As a Mechanical Engineer at the Ice Harbor Lock and Dam, your work will be diverse and highly technical. You will be expected to:
- Oversee the maintenance and repair of complex mechanical equipment within a hydroelectric powerhouse.
- Serve as the resident specialist for crane operations, ensuring all structures meet safety and mechanical design standards.
- Develop long-term reliability and maintainability solutions for aging infrastructure.
- Manage interfaces with private sector contractors for procurement and specialized services.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, you must demonstrate strong technical proficiency. The core requirements include:
- A bachelor’s degree in engineering from an ABET-accredited institution.
- Or, a combination of education and experience that includes fundamental engineering science coursework.
- One year of specialized experience in mechanical maintenance at a multi-disciplinary organization.
Grade Comparison Table
| Feature | GS-11 Grade | GS-12 Grade |
|---|---|---|
| Experience Level | Intermediate | Senior / Expert |
| Complexity | Standard maintenance | Advanced, proactive problem solving |
| Accountability | Execution-focused | Strategic reliability & safety oversight |
Salary Overview
This position is compensated at the GS-11 to GS-12 level, with a competitive annual salary range of $99,954 to $127,443. Compensation includes locality pay adjustments reflecting the specific market rates for the Pasco, Washington region.
Benefits
Federal service comes with an industry-leading benefits package:
- Health Insurance: Wide range of plans available for you and your family.
- Retirement: Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) and the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- Work-Life Balance: Generous paid leave, including federal holidays and sick time.
- Growth: Potential for professional growth and career progression within the Department of the Army.
Application Tips
To maximize your chances, remember: the two-page resume limit is non-negotiable. Ensure your work history describes your mechanical experience using clear, professional language. Focus on your accomplishments in reliability and equipment safety.
If you are an engineer who thrives in high-stakes environments and wants to contribute to the nation's energy future, this role at the Ice Harbor Lock and Dam is the perfect next step. Apply through the USAJOBS portal to join our mission of building a stronger nation.
Why This Mechanical Engineer Job Matters
Power the Nation’s Infrastructure: Join the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers as a Mechanical Engineer at the Ice Harbor Lock and Dam.
Mechanical Engineer Job Overview
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is seeking a dedicated Mechanical Engineer to join the team at the Ice Harbor Lock and Dam in Pasco, Washington. In this pivotal role, you will provide expert mechanical engineering support to ensure the reliability, safety, and efficiency of critical hydroelectric power facilities. You will collaborate with multi-disciplinary teams, oversee crane operations, and manage vital maintenance projects that keep our infrastructure running strong.
Requirements for Mechanical Engineer
- U.S. Citizenship is required.
- Bachelor's degree in engineering from an ABET-accredited program OR completion of equivalent coursework in engineering/physics.
- Current professional licensure as an Engineer Intern (EIT) or Professional Engineer (PE) may be used to meet education requirements.
- One year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level (GS-09 for GS-11, GS-11 for GS-12).
- Specialized experience includes maintenance, repair, and reliability engineering for mechanical equipment at multi-disciplinary facilities.
- Must pass a probationary period.
- Submission of a resume (two-page maximum) and official transcripts if qualifying by education.
Preferred Qualifications for Mechanical Engineer
- Experience in power plant or power distribution center mechanical maintenance.
- Expertise in crane operation safety, design, and structural maintenance.
- Proven history of developing engineering solutions for repetitive equipment failures.
- Strong technical communication skills for interfacing with contractors and vendors.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- âś“Competitive federal salary with locality pay
- âś“Comprehensive health and life insurance options
- âś“Federal retirement benefits including the Thrift Savings Plan (401k-style)
- âś“Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays
- âś“Potential for relocation incentives or student loan repayment for qualified candidates
- âś“Opportunities for continuous professional development and career advancement
đź’ˇ How to Apply Mechanical Engineer Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Mechanical Engineer Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Review the full vacancy announcement carefully.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less, highlighting your specialized experience with dates and hours worked.
- Gather supporting documents, such as transcripts or performance appraisals.
- Complete the online questionnaire through the application portal.
- Submit your complete application package before the closing date on November 2, 2026.
đź’ˇ General Tips
- Adhere strictly to the two-page resume limit; excess pages will disqualify your application.
- Use plain, clear language and avoid obscure acronyms.
- Ensure your resume explicitly details your mechanical maintenance experience at a multi-disciplinary facility.
- Verify that your uploaded documents have finished the virus scan process before the deadline.
- Check your application status frequently via your USAJOBS dashboard.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a security clearance required for this position?
No, this position is designated as Non-sensitive (NS)/Low Risk.
Can I qualify with a foreign degree?
Yes, provided you submit an evaluation from a private organization specializing in foreign education credentials confirming it is equivalent to an accredited U.S. program.
What happens if my resume exceeds two pages?
The system is strictly enforced; resumes exceeding two pages will be removed from consideration.
What is the closing date for this position?
*A: The position closes on November 2, 2026.*
Can I telework?
*A: This position is not listed as telework-eligible, as the duties require physical presence at the hydroelectric facility.*
Job from U.S. Army Corps Of Engineers
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) is one of the world's premier public engineering organizations. Tasked with delivering vital public and military engineering services, USACE works to strengthen national security, energize the economy, and reduce risks from disasters. Working at the Ice Harbor Project provides engineers with a dynamic, challenging environment where technical expertise directly contributes to energy security.