Lead Infrastructure Operations as a Director of Public Works

Are you a visionary leader with a background in engineering or architecture? The U.S. Army is looking for a dedicated professional to serve as the Director of the Directorate of Public Works at the White Sands Missile Range (WSMR). This pivotal role offers the opportunity to shape the operational landscape of a world-class military testing facility while advancing your federal career.

Job Responsibilities

As the Director, you will:

Oversee Base Operations: Manage complex contracts for housing, engineering, and logistics.
Ensure Compliance: Lead efforts to adhere to all environmental, natural, and archaeological laws.
Strategic Planning: Develop and execute long-range plans for installation support.
Leadership: Supervise personnel and provide continuity of operations for garrison leadership.

Comparison: Engineering vs. Architecture Tracks

Feature	Engineering Requirements	Architecture Requirements
Core Focus	Physics & Calculus	Design & Structural Tech
Academic Credit	60+ Hours in Engineering Science	30+ Hours in Architectural Design
Certifications	FE or PE Preferred	Architectural Licensure Preferred

Requirements

To qualify, you must be a U.S. citizen and meet the specialized experience threshold at the GS-13 level. You must submit a resume that is strictly two pages or less. Technical qualifications involve either a degree in engineering or architecture (or a related field) with specific coursework requirements.

Salary Overview

This position offers a competitive salary range of $125,776 to $163,514 per year, commensurate with your experience and qualifications.

Benefits

The federal government provides a robust benefits package, including health insurance, retirement planning through the Thrift Savings Plan, and generous leave policies. Additionally, recruitment/relocation incentives and student loan repayment options may be authorized for qualified candidates.

Application Tips

Keep it Concise: Your resume must be two pages or less. Use clear, descriptive language.
Verify Your Documents: Ensure transcripts are included if you are relying on education.
Detail Your Experience: Clearly state your role, the duration of your experience, and the hours worked per week.

This role is an ideal step for an experienced leader looking to make a significant impact on national defense infrastructure. Apply before the October 30, 2026 deadline to be considered for this unique opportunity at White Sands Missile Range.

Why This Interdisciplinary Job Matters

Lead critical infrastructure and engineering operations at the heart of the U.S. Army's premier testing site in New Mexico.

Interdisciplinary Job Overview

The Directorate of Public Works at White Sands Missile Range is seeking a high-level leader to serve as its Director. This role is essential for maintaining the vast infrastructure, environmental compliance, and logistical support systems required for a premier tri-service testing facility. As the lead for the Directorate, you will manage complex base support contracts, provide continuity of leadership, and ensure the operational readiness of a unique military installation serving both defense and commercial partners.

Requirements for Interdisciplinary

U.S. Citizenship
Bachelor's degree or higher in engineering or architecture (must meet specific ABET or coursework requirements)
One year of specialized experience at the GS-13 level or equivalent
Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance
Submission of a resume limited to two pages or less
Successful completion of a 1-year probationary period

Preferred Qualifications for Interdisciplinary

Proven experience in federal contract administration and management
Expertise in long-range strategic planning for installation support
Demonstrated ability to coordinate between federal, state, and local agencies
Professional Engineer (PE) licensure or successful completion of Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) examination
Strong background in environmental, natural, or cultural resource compliance

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive federal health, dental, and vision insurance
✓Federal retirement benefits (FERS) and Thrift Savings Plan
✓Paid annual and sick leave
✓Recruitment and relocation incentives may be authorized
✓Student loan repayment options available
✓Access to on-post housing for civilian employees

💡 How to Apply Interdisciplinary Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Interdisciplinary Job

Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less
Create or update your USAJOBS account profile
Review all required documents, including transcripts and performance appraisals
Complete the online questionnaire via the USA Staffing portal
Submit your application package by 11:59 PM (EST) on October 30, 2026
Monitor your application status through the USAJOBS dashboard

💡 General Tips

Use plain language and avoid internal acronyms in your resume.
Ensure your resume explicitly details hours worked per week and specific duties matching the GS-13 level.
Submit all required transcripts if using education to meet qualifications.
Check your application status regularly via the USAJOBS portal.
Sanitize sensitive personal information from uploaded documents if necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I substitute education for the required experience?

No, for this specific position, you must qualify based on professional experience alone.

Is on-post housing available?

Yes, White Sands Missile Range offers housing options for civilian employees.

What happens if my resume exceeds two pages?

Resumes exceeding the two-page limit will be automatically removed from consideration.

Is a security clearance required?

Yes, this position requires a Secret security clearance.

Can I telework in this role?

No, this position is currently not eligible for telework.

Job from United States Army Installation Management Command

The White Sands Missile Range is the largest open-air missile range in the United States, providing a critical testing environment for military and commercial systems. As part of the Army Installation Management Command, the Directorate of Public Works ensures the installation remains functional, sustainable, and prepared for future missions.