Launch Your Engineering Career: Electrical Engineer (Hydropower) with the USACE
Are you an expert in electrical systems looking to power the nation's future? The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) is looking for a dedicated Electrical Engineer to join their Hydropower Engineering Section in Little Rock, Arkansas. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to critical energy infrastructure while working with a team committed to engineering excellence.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will be at the heart of our hydropower operations. Your daily tasks will include:
- Conducting on-site investigations to define requirements for major maintenance.
- Providing technical expertise during equipment breakdowns to identify innovative solutions.
- Managing and troubleshooting Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems.
- Reviewing contractor shop drawings to ensure design adequacy.
- Coordinating with plant superintendents on inspections and modifications.
Requirements
To qualify for this position, you must meet specific standards for the Federal GS-11 or GS-12 levels. Key requirements include:
| Level | Qualifying Criteria |
|---|---|
| GS-11 | Specialized experience or Ph.D./3 years of graduate education |
| GS-12 | Specialized experience only (no education substitution allowed) |
Salary and Benefits
The salary range for this role is $99,954 to $127,443 per year, depending on qualifications. Beyond the salary, federal employees enjoy an industry-leading benefits package, including:
- Robust health and life insurance options.
- Retirement plans through the Thrift Savings Plan.
- Substantial paid leave and federal holidays.
- Opportunities for career advancement and permanent change of station (PCS) coverage.
If you have the technical expertise to maintain our nation's power infrastructure, we want to hear from you. The application process is rigorous, so ensure your resume is concise and highlights your specialized experience. Apply today to build a stronger future with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
Why This Electrical Engineer (Hydropower) Job Matters
Power the nation's energy future! Join the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in Little Rock as an Electrical Engineer specializing in hydropower and make a lasting impact on national infrastructure.
Electrical Engineer (Hydropower) Job Overview
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) is seeking a skilled Electrical Engineer to join the Operations Division at the Little Rock District. This critical role focuses on the maintenance, design, and operational integrity of hydroelectric generating facilities. As part of a mission-driven team, you will handle complex technical challenges, manage SCADA systems, and ensure our power generation equipment meets the highest standards of safety and efficiency.
Requirements for Electrical Engineer (Hydropower)
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Must meet the basic professional engineering educational requirements.
- For GS-11: One year of specialized experience at the GS-09 level or a Ph.D./3 years of graduate education.
- For GS-12: One year of specialized experience at the GS-11 level (Education cannot be substituted for experience at this level).
- Must submit a resume of two pages or less.
- Must pass a one-year probationary period.
- Must register for Selective Service if a male born after December 31, 1959.
Preferred Qualifications for Electrical Engineer (Hydropower)
- Expertise in troubleshooting major hydroelectric equipment breakdowns.
- Proficiency in analyzing and programming SCADA systems for power plants.
- Experience in conducting thorough maintenance inspections on hydroelectric generators and transformers.
- Ability to review and evaluate complex contractor and manufacturer shop drawings.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Federal Salary
- ✓Comprehensive Health and Insurance Plans
- ✓Retirement Savings (Thrift Savings Plan)
- ✓Paid Annual and Sick Leave
- ✓Professional Development Opportunities
- ✓Relocation/PCS expenses may be authorized for qualified candidates
💡 How to Apply Electrical Engineer (Hydropower) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Electrical Engineer (Hydropower) Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less.
- Complete the online questionnaire via the USA Staffing link.
- Upload all required transcripts and supporting documents.
- Review your application package for completeness.
- Submit your application before the closing date of October 28, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume strictly to two pages to ensure it is not disqualified.
- Use plain language and avoid internal acronyms when describing your work history.
- Ensure your resume includes employer names, job titles, and specific hours worked per week.
- If using education to qualify, ensure your transcripts are uploaded during the application process.
- Double-check your submission before the deadline, as the system does not allow corrections after submission.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my degree to qualify for the GS-12 position?
No, the GS-12 position requires specialized experience equivalent to the GS-11 level. Substitution of education for experience is not permitted at the GS-12 grade level.
Is relocation assistance provided?
Permanent Change of Station (PCS) allowances may be authorized for this position, subject to agency determination and Joint Travel Regulations.
What happens if my resume is longer than two pages?
Resumes exceeding the two-page limit will be automatically removed from consideration.
Job from U.S. Army Corps Of Engineers
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is one of the world's premier public engineering agencies. Tasked with solving some of the nation's most complex challenges, USACE delivers engineering solutions that protect national security, support economic growth, and reduce disaster risks. By joining our team, you are not just taking a job—you are contributing to projects that impact millions of lives.