Become a General Engineer with the National Cemetery Administration
Are you a skilled engineer looking for a career that combines technical excellence with a profound sense of mission? The National Cemetery Administration (NCA), an agency within the Department of Veterans Affairs, is currently seeking a General Engineer to join our team in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Job Responsibilities
As a General Engineer, you will work under the direction of the North Atlantic District Executive Director. Your primary responsibilities will include:
- Program Oversight: Managing the Non-Recurring Maintenance (NRM) and Maintenance and Repair (M&R) construction programs for 54 cemeteries.
- Project Management: Leading engineering analysis, design, and plan preparation for new construction, extensions, and repairs.
- Environmental Management: Coordinating the district’s Environmental Management Program, conducting site assessments, and ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local regulations.
- Stakeholder Collaboration: Partnering with Project Engineers, Cemetery Directors, and external contractors to ensure successful project delivery.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, you must meet the following criteria by the closing date of October 30, 2026:
- Education: A bachelor’s degree in engineering from an ABET-accredited program, or a qualifying combination of education and experience.
- Experience: One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-12 level.
- Technical Skills: Expertise in facilities engineering, project management, and environmental codes.
Comparison of Qualifications
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Primary Education | Bachelor's in Engineering (ABET-accredited) |
| Experience Level | 1 Year specialized (GS-12 equivalent) |
| Key Competency | Project Management & Engineering Analysis |
| Citizenship | U.S. Citizenship required |
Salary and Benefits
This position is classified at the GS-13 grade level, with a competitive salary range of $117,284 to $152,471 per year. Benefits include federal health coverage, a comprehensive retirement plan (FERS), a Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching, and generous paid time off.
Application Tips
To stand out in the federal application process:
- Be Specific: Detail your past experience with construction projects and environmental compliance in your resume.
- Limit Length: Ensure your resume is exactly 2 pages or less, using a clear 10-point font.
- Verify Documentation: Attach all required documents, such as your DD-214 or transcripts, at the time of submission.
This role offers a unique intersection of advanced engineering work and meaningful public service. If you are ready to apply your skills toward honoring our nation's Veterans, we encourage you to review the full details and submit your application today.
Why This General Engineer Job Matters
Join the National Cemetery Administration and apply your engineering expertise to honor those who served our nation.
General Engineer Job Overview
The National Cemetery Administration (NCA) is seeking a dedicated General Engineer for the North Atlantic District Office in Philadelphia, PA. In this vital role, you will oversee Non-Recurring Maintenance (NRM) and Maintenance and Repair (M&R) construction programs, supporting 54 cemeteries. You will serve as a key project engineer, managing designs, environmental compliance, and infrastructure projects that ensure our national shrines remain places of dignity and respect.
Requirements for General Engineer
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Bachelor's degree or higher in engineering from an ABET-accredited program, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
- One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-12 level in the federal service.
- Ability to perform technical engineering analysis, design, and construction management.
- Completion of a one-year probationary period.
- Must be able to work occasional weekends and holidays, including Memorial Day and Veteran's Day.
Preferred Qualifications for General Engineer
- Professional Engineer (PE) licensure or Engineer in Training (EIT) certification.
- Strong background in environmental management programs.
- Proven experience in project management, cost estimation, and contractor oversight.
- Demonstrated ability to coordinate with multi-disciplinary project teams and regulatory agencies.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- âś“Comprehensive federal health insurance options.
- âś“Life insurance and long-term care insurance programs.
- âś“Generous paid federal holidays, annual leave, and sick leave.
- âś“Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- âś“Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching contributions.
đź’ˇ How to Apply General Engineer Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for General Engineer Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Review the full vacancy announcement and gather required documents (Resume, DD-214, etc.).
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload your resume and all relevant supporting documentation.
- Submit your application package before the 11:59 PM ET deadline on October 30, 2026.
- Monitor your application status through the USAJOBS dashboard.
đź’ˇ General Tips
- Tailor your resume specifically to the specialized experience described in the announcement.
- Keep your resume concise; ensure it does not exceed 2 pages with at least a 10-point font.
- Double-check that all uploaded documents are legible and in English.
- Explicitly address your experience regarding project management and engineering codes.
- Submit your documents well before the deadline to allow for system processing time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a remote or telework position?
No, this is an on-site position located in Philadelphia, PA. It is not eligible for full-time remote or virtual work.
What is the work schedule for this role?
The standard schedule is Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 4:30 pm. However, the role requires flexibility to work occasional weekends, holidays, and emergency overtime as needed by the cemetery mission.
Is there flexibility in the work schedule?
While the standard schedule is weekdays, the nature of the cemetery mission requires occasional weekend and holiday work, including Memorial Day and Veteran's Day.
Is a security clearance required?
A formal security clearance is not required; however, you must pass suitability and fitness adjudications.
Job from National Cemetery Administration
The NCA is dedicated to fulfilling President Lincoln’s promise to care for those who have served in our nation’s military and their families. We maintain national cemeteries as shrines, ensuring they are places of dignity, respect, and lasting tribute. By joining our team, you contribute to a mission that honors the sacrifices of our nation's Veterans.