Become a Facilities Electrical Engineer at NIST
Are you an experienced electrical engineer looking to apply your technical skills in a high-impact environment? The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is currently hiring for a Facilities Electrical Engineer at our Boulder, Colorado campus. This role is vital to ensuring that our research scientists have the reliable, safe, and modern infrastructure required to advance measurement science.
Job Responsibilities
As a Facilities Electrical Engineer, you will serve as a key member of the Boulder Facilities Maintenance Division. Your daily duties will include:
- Designing and optimizing utility distribution systems for research facilities.
- Conducting complex electrical studies, including arc flash, short-circuit, and time-current coordination analysis.
- Providing subject matter expertise on medium-voltage (13.2 kV) and low-voltage power networks.
- Acting as a Contracting Officer Representative (COR) for design and construction projects.
- Ensuring code compliance and safety standards across all laboratory infrastructure.
Requirements
You must hold a bachelor’s degree in engineering from an ABET-accredited program or demonstrate a sufficient combination of education and experience. Applicants are expected to have at least one year of specialized experience at the GS-12/ZP-III level. Proficiency in facility electrical design and technical oversight is mandatory.
Comparison of Potential Growth Paths
| Feature | Traditional GS-12/13 | NIST APMS (ZP-III) |
|---|---|---|
| Salary Structure | Standard Step Increases | Pay-for-Performance |
| Flexibility | Moderate | High |
| Advancement | Time-in-grade | Merit-based |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $118,675 to $182,316 per year. Beyond compensation, NIST employees enjoy robust federal benefits, including comprehensive health coverage, generous leave policies, and professional development programs within a supportive, flexible work environment.
Application Tips
- Resume Conciseness: Keep your resume to exactly two pages. Highlight your specific technical accomplishments related to power distribution.
- Formatting: Always upload documents as PDFs to preserve formatting.
- Accuracy: Ensure all contact information and employment history details are accurate to avoid delays in the qualification process.
If you are ready to apply your electrical engineering expertise to support critical scientific advancements, we encourage you to review the full requirements and submit your application via the official USAJOBS portal. Help us build the future at NIST.
Why This Facilities Electrical Engineer Job Matters
Advance the future of measurement science by securing the backbone of world-class research facilities at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST).
Facilities Electrical Engineer Job Overview
NIST is seeking a skilled Facilities Electrical Engineer to join our Boulder, Colorado team. This role is pivotal in maintaining the operational integrity of our research infrastructure. You will manage complex power distribution systems, oversee critical laboratory renovations, and serve as a technical authority on electrical safety to ensure a secure and innovative environment for scientific advancement.
Requirements for Facilities Electrical Engineer
- Bachelor's degree in engineering from an ABET-accredited program or a combination of education and professional experience.
- One year of specialized experience at the GS-12 (or ZP-III) level.
- Proven experience in electrical facility design, including medium- and low-voltage power distribution.
- Demonstrated ability to perform electrical system studies such as short-circuit, time-current coordination, or arc flash analysis.
- Must be able to provide technical oversight for construction and maintenance contracts.
- Ability to meet specific physical requirements, including lifting up to 45 pounds and navigating various environmental conditions.
Preferred Qualifications for Facilities Electrical Engineer
- Current Professional Engineer (PE) licensure.
- Active status as an Engineer in Training (EIT) or Engineer Intern (EI).
- Experience serving as a Contracting Officer Representative (COR).
- Expertise in managing networked fire alarm systems and fiber optic cabling.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive salary under the APMS pay-for-performance system.
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance and retirement plans.
- ✓Work-life balance flexibilities.
- ✓Professional development and training opportunities.
- ✓Exposure to world-class scientific research facilities.
💡 How to Apply Facilities Electrical Engineer Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Facilities Electrical Engineer Job
- Review the full vacancy announcement details.
- Prepare a resume (maximum of 2 pages) highlighting your technical experience.
- Gather necessary documentation, including academic transcripts or foreign education evaluations.
- Log into your USAJOBS account and complete the online application questionnaire.
- Submit your complete package, including all required attachments, before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume is formatted to clearly show month, year, and hours worked for each role.
- Focus your resume on the most relevant technical experience, as subject matter experts only review the first two pages.
- Verify that your documents are legible and uploaded in PDF format.
- Use your own words in all narrative responses to ensure authenticity.
- Double-check your email address to ensure you receive status updates.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Alternative Personnel Management System (APMS)?
The APMS is a pay-for-performance system used by NIST, designed to provide greater flexibility in recruiting and retaining top-tier talent compared to traditional pay scales.
How long should my resume be?
Your resume must not exceed two pages. Only the first two pages will be evaluated by the subject matter experts.
Is a security clearance required?
No, this position is designated as non-sensitive/low risk and does not require a formal security clearance.
What is the work environment like?
You will be working in a research-oriented environment that involves both office-based design work and on-site facility inspections.
Do I need to be a professional engineer?
While a PE license is preferred and beneficial, it is not listed as a strictly mandatory prerequisite, provided you meet the educational and experience requirements.
Job from National Institute Of Standards And Technology
The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), a part of the Department of Commerce, operates at the intersection of industry, science, and technology. Our mission is to promote U.S. innovation and industrial competitiveness by advancing measurement science, standards, and technology in ways that enhance economic security and improve our quality of life.