Launch Your Career: Mechanical Engineer at NAVAIR

Are you a visionary engineer looking to make a tangible impact on national security? The Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) is hiring a Mechanical Engineer to join its Research & Development team at the Naval Air Warfare Center Weapons Division in China Lake, operating out of Edwards AFB. This role offers the unique opportunity to bridge the gap between theoretical research and real-world mission success.

Job Responsibilities

As a Mechanical Engineer, you will:

Systems Testing: Conduct comprehensive testing and evaluation of modified engineering systems to ensure peak operational reliability.
Data Analysis: Interpret complex performance data to validate test procedures and verify that equipment remains within legal and safety parameters.
Research & Development: Collaborate with senior engineers to conduct experiments and evaluate state-of-the-art prototypes.
Documentation: Prepare technical reports and assessments to support the Integrated Mission and Operational Test and Evaluation Branch.

Requirements

You must meet the following criteria to be considered:

Possess a professional engineering degree (or equivalent academic training).
Have at least one year of specialized experience at the DP-02 pay band.
Be a U.S. citizen capable of obtaining a Top Secret clearance.
Pass the required drug screening.

Qualifications Comparison

Feature	Mandatory Requirement	Preferred Qualification
Education	ABET-accredited Degree	Advanced Degree or PE License
Experience	1 Year Specialized	Multi-disciplinary R&D Exposure
Certification	N/A	FE/EIT or PE Certification
Clearance	Top Secret	Existing Top Secret/SCI

Salary and Benefits

This position offers a competitive salary range of $71,957 to $113,185. Beyond the paycheck, federal employment includes:

Comprehensive Health and Life Insurance.
Robust Federal Employee Retirement System (FERS).
Generous Paid Time Off (PTO).
Extensive career development and training programs.

Application Tips

To ensure your application stands out:

Format Matters: Stick strictly to the two-page resume limit.
Highlight Accomplishments: Focus on your specific technical contributions rather than just listing duties.
Proofread: Ensure your transcripts and SF-50 forms are clearly legible.
Stay Engaged: Opt-in to make your resume available to other hiring managers if you are interested in broader opportunities within the agency.

This Mechanical Engineer role with the Naval Air Systems Command represents a significant step forward for any professional looking to contribute to the future of aerospace defense. With a blend of laboratory research, field testing, and high-level evaluation, this position provides the variety and challenge necessary for a long and successful federal career.

Why This Mechanical Engineer Job Matters

Launch your career at the forefront of aerospace innovation as a Mechanical Engineer with the Naval Air Systems Command at Edwards AFB.

Mechanical Engineer Job Overview

The Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) is seeking a motivated Mechanical Engineer to join the Research & Development group at the Naval Air Warfare Center Weapons Division in China Lake. This pivotal role involves working within the Integrated Mission and Operational Test and Evaluation Branch, where you will contribute to the development and verification of advanced engineering systems. You will play a vital role in ensuring that cutting-edge weaponry and defense technologies meet stringent safety, legality, and performance standards.

Requirements for Mechanical Engineer

U.S. Citizenship.
Completion of a professional engineering degree from an ABET-accredited school or a combination of education and experience.
One year of specialized experience at the DP-02 pay band or equivalent in the private/public sector.
Ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance.
Passing a pre-employment drug screening.
Completion of all application components, including a resume limited to two pages.

Preferred Qualifications for Mechanical Engineer

Experience in testing, evaluating, and improving complex engineering systems.
Proven ability to develop structured test procedures and perform rigorous data analysis.
Experience collaborating with senior engineers on advanced prototypes and research projects.
Hold a Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) certification or Professional Engineer (PE) license.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive federal salary structure.
✓Comprehensive health insurance plans.
✓Federal retirement benefits and savings plans.
✓Professional development and continuous training opportunities.
✓Paid annual and sick leave.
✓Work-life balance initiatives, including telework eligibility.

💡 How to Apply Mechanical Engineer Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Mechanical Engineer Job

Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
Build or upload your resume (max 2 pages) ensuring all required job details are included.
Submit supporting documentation including transcripts, SF-50s, and any relevant licenses or veteran preference documents.
Complete the required assessment questionnaire.
Finalize and submit your application package before the closing date.

💡 General Tips

Use the USAJOBS Resume Builder to ensure all federal requirements are captured.
Verify that your resume clearly shows your hours per week, series, and grade level for federal experience.
Redact sensitive personal information like SSNs from supporting documents before submission.
Submit your application early to avoid last-minute technical issues.
Double-check that your transcripts are clear and show all necessary course information.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the security clearance level for this position?

This position requires a Top Secret security clearance and is designated as Critical-Sensitive/High Risk.

Can I submit more than two pages for my resume?

No, resumes are strictly limited to two pages. Any documentation exceeding this limit may result in your application not being considered.

Is telework allowed for this role?

Yes, this position is telework eligible, subject to agency policy and supervisory approval.

Can I apply if I don't have a PE license?

Yes, a PE license is preferred but not required if you meet the educational and experience standards outlined in the OPM handbook.

What is the work location?

This role is based at Edwards AFB, California.

Job from Naval Air Systems Command

The Department of the Navy (DoN) is a leader in global aerospace and maritime defense. Joining NAVAIR means becoming part of an elite team that integrates civilian expertise with military strategy. The organization prides itself on providing a collaborative, intellectually stimulating environment where engineers are encouraged to innovate while maintaining the highest safety standards for the Fleet.