Launch Your Engineering Career with the U.S. Coast Guard in Rhode Island
Are you a professional mechanical engineer seeking a career that blends technical innovation with a profound sense of purpose? The Department of Homeland Security is currently seeking a highly qualified Mechanical Engineer (GS-12) to join the U.S. Coast Guard's Civil Engineering Unit in Warwick, Rhode Island. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to the resilience and operational success of one of the nation's most vital maritime services.
Job Responsibilities
As a Mechanical Engineer, you will serve as a key member of a multi-disciplinary architecture and engineering team. Your daily responsibilities will include:
- Project Development: Planning and scoping complex facility construction, repair, and renovation projects.
- Design Oversight: Developing and reviewing mechanical engineering designs, calculations, and detailed project specifications.
- Project Management: Coordinating engineering projects throughout the entire design and construction lifecycle.
- Condition Assessment: Performing site evaluations of mechanical and critical facility systems, recommending preventative maintenance and corrective solutions.
- Stakeholder Coordination: Resolving technical challenges on-site and ensuring all contractor activities remain compliant with project requirements.
Qualifications and Requirements
To be considered for this position, candidates must demonstrate a solid foundation in engineering principles and professional practice.
Minimum Requirements
- Education: A bachelor's degree in engineering from an ABET-accredited program, or a curriculum covering advanced calculus and engineering sciences (e.g., thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and strength of materials).
- Experience: At least one full year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-11 grade level. This includes hands-on experience in facility maintenance, design, and cost estimation.
- Citizenship: Applicants must be U.S. citizens.
- Documentation: All applicants must provide transcripts for any educational claims and adhere to strict resume formatting guidelines (maximum two pages).
Salary and Benefits
The position offers a competitive compensation package commensurate with experience and federal pay scales.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Grade Level | GS-12 |
| Salary Range | $101,375 - $131,790 |
| Location | Warwick, Rhode Island |
| Clearance | Public Trust |
In addition to the salary, employees receive a robust federal benefits package including health insurance, a retirement plan, the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP), and generous paid leave.
Application Tips for Success
Competition for federal engineering roles is high. Ensure your resume highlights your technical achievements rather than just listing duties. Use specific metrics—such as the scale of budgets managed or the number of renovation projects completed—to stand out. Always double-check that your resume is under the two-page limit; this is a strict automated filter.
If you possess the engineering expertise and dedication to support the U.S. Coast Guard's infrastructure, this GS-12 position in Warwick, Rhode Island, is an excellent next step. By combining your technical problem-solving skills with a mission-driven career, you can help build the foundations for national maritime safety. Review the full announcement details and submit your application today.
Why This Mechanical Engineer Job Matters
Advance your engineering career by securing critical maritime infrastructure with the U.S. Coast Guard in Rhode Island.
Mechanical Engineer Job Overview
The U.S. Coast Guard is seeking a skilled Mechanical Engineer for its Civil Engineering Unit in Warwick, Rhode Island. As a GS-12 professional, you will play a vital role in designing, managing, and maintaining facility projects that support the Coast Guard's national security and maritime safety missions. This position offers an opportunity to apply your technical expertise to complex construction and renovation projects within a collaborative, multi-disciplinary environment.
Requirements for Mechanical Engineer
- U.S. Citizenship is required.
- Must meet specific education requirements: A bachelor's degree in engineering from an ABET-accredited program or completion of specific engineering science/physics coursework.
- One year of specialized experience at the GS-11 grade level (or equivalent).
- Must be registered or exempt from Selective Service.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a state driver's license.
- Must undergo and successfully pass a background investigation for a Public Trust clearance.
- Resume must not exceed two pages; font size minimum 10pt and 0.5-inch margins.
Preferred Qualifications for Mechanical Engineer
- Professional Engineer (PE) licensure.
- Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification.
- Advanced technical experience in facility renovation and site construction oversight.
- Demonstrated ability to manage complex multi-disciplinary engineering projects from inception through completion.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- âś“Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance options.
- âś“Federal retirement pension plan and Thrift Savings Plan (401k equivalent).
- âś“Flexible spending accounts and long-term care insurance.
- âś“Generous personal leave and paid federal holidays.
- âś“Opportunities for professional development and tuition reimbursement.
- âś“Potential for flexible work schedules and fitness center access.
- âś“Relocation assistance may be authorized for qualified candidates.
đź’ˇ How to Apply Mechanical Engineer Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Mechanical Engineer Job
- Create a profile on the USAJOBS platform.
- Prepare a concise resume (maximum two pages) detailing your engineering experience and hours worked per week.
- Gather your college transcripts (unofficial accepted initially).
- Submit your complete application package, including any required veteran or schedule-A documentation, before the deadline.
- Monitor your email for a potential invitation to the USA Hire Competency Based Assessment.
- Complete any required assessments within 48 hours of notification.
đź’ˇ General Tips
- Keep your resume strictly to two pages; documents exceeding this limit will be automatically disqualified.
- Provide detailed descriptions of your past projects, focusing on your specific technical contributions.
- Ensure your transcripts clearly show course titles, credits, and grades to avoid education-related disqualifications.
- Do not include personal information like photos, social security numbers, or dates of birth on your resume.
- Verify your eligibility for veterans' preference or other special hiring authorities ahead of time and include the required documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary role of the Mechanical Engineer at this unit?
You will manage the full lifecycle of facility projects, from planning and budgeting to final design and construction oversight, specifically focusing on mechanical systems.
Is a Professional Engineer (PE) license required?
While not strictly required for the basic education qualification, holding a PE or EIT certification is highly advantageous and supports your overall application.
Can I submit my application via email?
No, all applications must be submitted through the official online portal. Applications sent via email or mail will not be processed.
Can I apply if I don't have a PE license?
Yes, the license is not mandatory for all applicants, though it is highly recommended.
Is remote work available?
This position is based on-site in Warwick, RI, and is not designated as a remote position.
What if I need a reasonable accommodation?
Requests for accommodations related to the application assessments can be made directly through the application portal as instructed in the job announcement.
Job from U.S. Coast Guard
The U.S. Coast Guard is an essential component of the Department of Homeland Security, responsible for protecting the nation's ports, waterways, and coastal interests. Civilians working within the Coast Guard provide the backbone for technical infrastructure and engineering support, ensuring that facilities around the globe remain operational, safe, and efficient. Joining this team means more than just a job; it means serving the public interest and protecting American interests.