Lead Engineer Opportunities at Naval Surface Warfare Center

The Naval Surface Warfare Center (NSWC) Port Hueneme Division is actively recruiting for a highly skilled Lead Engineer. This role represents a pinnacle opportunity for engineering professionals to influence the future of naval combat systems. Operating at the intersection of technical oversight and strategic program leadership, the successful candidate will ensure that our naval forces possess the most capable and reliable technology available.

Job Responsibilities

As a Lead Engineer, you will serve as a primary technical authority. Your responsibilities include:

Providing technical direction for Division engineering policies.
Leading digital engineering initiatives for combat systems.
Overseeing lifecycle sustainment, integration, and rigorous testing processes.
Facilitating technical reviews, including Preliminary Design Reviews (PDR) and Critical Design Reviews (CDR).
Mentoring teams to ensure all engineering products meet strict quality and safety standards.

Requirements

To qualify for this position, applicants must meet specific federal standards, including:

A bachelor’s degree (or higher) in an ABET-accredited engineering program or equivalent scientific coursework.
One year of specialized experience equivalent to the ND-04 pay band.
Proficiency in configuration management and complex systems integration.
Ability to hold a Secret-level security clearance.

Salary and Benefits

This position offers a competitive salary range of $146,632 to $197,200 per year.

Benefit Category	Description
Salary	$146,632 - $197,200
Retirement	FERS & Thrift Savings Plan
Insurance	Health, Dental, Vision, Life
Leave	Paid Annual & Sick Leave
Career Growth	Professional Development & Training

Application Tips

Resume Precision: Keep your resume to 2 pages and ensure it clearly reflects your specific engineering background.
Documentation: Have your transcripts and applicable SF-50 forms ready before starting the application.
Follow Directions: USAJOBS applications are automated; failing to include required documents results in an automatic disqualification.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What is the ND-05 pay band? A: It is a pay band structure used by the Warfare Centers, roughly equivalent to the GS-14/15 grade levels in the standard federal pay scale.

Q: Can I submit my application via email? A: No. All applications must be submitted through the official USAJOBS platform to be considered.

Serving as a Lead Engineer at NSWC Port Hueneme is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the safety and capability of the U.S. Navy. If you meet the qualifications and are ready to tackle complex challenges in digital engineering and combat systems, we encourage you to apply by the closing date.

Why This Engineer Job Matters

Shape the future of naval combat systems as a Lead Engineer at the Naval Surface Warfare Center in Port Hueneme, where cutting-edge technology meets maritime mission success.

Engineer Job Overview

The Naval Surface Warfare Center (NSWC) Port Hueneme Division is seeking a high-level Lead Engineer to spearhead digital engineering programs and combat system sustainment. This critical leadership role involves directing technical quality, overseeing complex engineering lifecycles, and driving innovation for current and future combat systems. As a key technical authority, you will provide oversight for system design, integration, and testing, ensuring the warfighter remains equipped with safe, effective, and reliable capabilities.

Requirements for Engineer

U.S. Citizenship.
Completion of a professional engineering degree from an ABET-accredited program, or equivalent academic preparation in engineering sciences.
Minimum of one year of specialized experience at or equivalent to the ND-04 (GS-12/13) level.
Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
Demonstrated experience in digital design, prototyping, electronics production, and system engineering principles.
Proficiency in configuration management and lifecycle sustainment.

Preferred Qualifications for Engineer

Licensure as a Professional Engineer (PE).
Current registration as an Engineer in Training (EIT) or Engineer Intern (EI).
Proven track record of technical oversight for large-scale program reviews (PDR, CDR).
Experience in cross-functional team leadership within a Department of Defense environment.
Expertise in integrating and testing major warfare systems.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive federal salary structure.
✓Comprehensive health insurance plans.
✓Federal retirement benefits (FERS).
✓Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching.
✓Generous leave and holiday programs.
✓Extensive professional development and training opportunities.
✓Relocation incentive possibilities for eligible candidates.

💡 How to Apply Engineer Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Engineer Job

Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
Prepare a resume restricted to a maximum of 2 pages, including detailed job titles, duties, and specific pay/series/grade info for federal experience.
Gather supporting documentation, including transcripts and SF-50 forms if applying for promotion.
Submit your complete application package via the online portal before the closing date.
Monitor your status through the USAJOBS dashboard.

💡 General Tips

Utilize the USAJOBS Resume Builder to ensure all mandatory employment data is captured.
Double-check that your resume explicitly maps your experience to the specialized requirements listed.
Redact sensitive PII (like SSN) from supporting documents before uploading.
Submit early to avoid technical issues as the deadline approaches.
If you are a current or former federal employee, ensure your most recent SF-50 clearly demonstrates time-in-grade.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a remote position?

No, this position is based in Port Hueneme, California, though it is eligible for telework opportunities.

What is the pay band for this position?

This position falls under the Warfare Centers Personnel Demonstration Project ND-05 pay band, which is equivalent to GS-14/15 levels.

Do I need a security clearance?

Yes, this position requires a Secret security clearance.

Job from Naval Sea Systems Command

The Department of the Navy, specifically the Naval Surface Warfare Center, is dedicated to the research, development, and sustainment of naval combat systems. Our mission is to safeguard national security by providing innovative, integrated solutions. Employees at NSWC benefit from a culture that values patriotism, technical excellence, and long-term career growth through continuous professional development.