Advance Your Career as a Civil Engineer with the Bureau of Reclamation

Are you a seasoned civil engineer looking for a role that combines technical mastery with public service? The Bureau of Reclamation (BOR) is currently seeking a highly skilled Civil Engineer at the GS-13 level to join our team. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to one of the most critical missions in the United States: managing and protecting our nation’s water resources.

Job Responsibilities

As a GS-13 Civil Engineer, your role is multifaceted and highly influential. Your core duties will include:

Expert Consultation: Provide high-level technical guidance to senior leadership and Department officials regarding engineering analyses.
Design Oversight: Perform peer reviews and quality assurance on complex designs, technical documents, and construction contracts.
Policy Development: Lead the development of protocols and procedures for specialized engineering projects that address unique or novel technical problems.
Project Management: Monitor project budgets, scopes, and schedules while ensuring regulatory compliance.
Facility Assessment: Conduct site examinations, condition assessments, and construction inspections to ensure infrastructure integrity.

Requirements

To be considered for this position, you must be a U.S. citizen or national and meet the following criteria:

Educational Requirements: A degree in engineering from an ABET-accredited program, or a combination of education and experience that includes specific engineering science coursework.
Specialized Experience: You must possess at least one year of professional experience equivalent to the GS-12 grade level, including work on advanced design, project coordination, and complex problem-solving.
Professional Conduct: You must be able to pass a background investigation and follow all agency ethical guidelines.

Salary Overview

This position offers a competitive federal salary commensurate with the GS-13 grade level.

Pay Period	Annual Salary Range
Per Year	$133,359 - $160,638

Benefits

Working for the federal government provides a robust benefits package, including:

Health, vision, and dental insurance options.
Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
Paid annual leave, sick leave, and federal holidays.
Opportunities for telework and flexible scheduling.
Access to professional development and career advancement programs.

Application Tips

Resume Format: Stick to the two-page limit and use a minimum 10-point font.
Documentation: Ensure all SF-50s, transcripts, and performance appraisals are uploaded before the closing date.
Assessments: Be prepared for the USA Hire assessment process—practice beforehand to increase your chances of success.
Clarity: Clearly state your hours worked per week on your resume to verify your specialized experience.

If you are ready to apply your civil engineering expertise to projects that directly impact the environment and the public, the Bureau of Reclamation is the place for you. Follow the application instructions precisely, prepare your documentation, and take the next step in your federal career today.

Why This Civil Engineer Job Matters

Shape the Future of Water Resources: Expert Civil Engineering Role at the Bureau of Reclamation.

Civil Engineer Job Overview

The Bureau of Reclamation is seeking a dedicated and experienced Civil Engineer to serve as a key technical consultant and advisor. In this role, you will influence the future of national water resource management by providing expert engineering analysis, conducting critical facility examinations, and spearheading complex policy initiatives that protect our natural resources and serve the American public.

Requirements for Civil Engineer

U.S. Citizenship or National status.
Must undergo and pass a background investigation.
Male applicants born after December 31, 1959, must be registered for Selective Service.
Ability to obtain and maintain a government travel and purchase card.
One-year probationary period may be required.
Must meet specialized experience equivalent to GS-12 level.
Bachelor's degree in engineering (ABET accredited) or a combination of education and experience.

Preferred Qualifications for Civil Engineer

Advanced experience in planning and designing complex engineering systems.
Proven track record of managing project scope, budget, and schedules.
Expertise in conducting condition assessments and construction inspections.
Ability to provide peer reviews and technical oversight for large-scale engineering documents.
Strong communication skills for advising senior leadership on complex technical issues.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Federal health insurance programs
✓Comprehensive life insurance options
✓Defined benefit pension plan (FERS)
✓Thrift Savings Plan (401k-style investment)
✓Paid federal holidays and leave
✓Flexible work arrangements and telework opportunities
✓Professional development and training

💡 How to Apply Civil Engineer Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Civil Engineer Job

Review the full vacancy announcement carefully.
Prepare your resume according to the specific 2-page limit and formatting requirements.
Gather supporting documents (transcripts, SF-50s, performance appraisals).
Click the Apply Online link to start your application in the USA Staffing system.
Complete the mandatory application questionnaire.
Submit your application package before the closing date.
Monitor your email for potential USA Hire Assessment instructions.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume explicitly mentions 'full-time' or 'part-time' with hours per week.
Double-check that your resume does not exceed the two-page limit.
Submit official transcripts early to avoid processing delays.
Use the USA Hire practice assessments to prepare for the competency-based evaluation.
Tailor your resume to highlight experience directly related to the 'Major Duties' listed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I substitute my education for the experience requirement?

No, this position has a mandatory education requirement that cannot be substituted for experience. You must meet the basic educational requirements outlined in the announcement.

What happens if my resume is longer than two pages?

Resumes exceeding the two-page limit will not be accepted or reviewed, resulting in an incomplete application.

Is this position eligible for telework?

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

What is the deadline to apply?

Applications must be received by October 30, 2026, at 11:59 PM ET.

Can I submit my resume in an Adobe portfolio?

No, please do not upload Adobe portfolio documents.

How do I know if I need a Reasonable Accommodation?

You can request accommodations for the assessment phase through the application portal under the section for the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.

Job from Bureau Of Reclamation

The Bureau of Reclamation, an agency under the Department of the Interior, is responsible for managing water and related resources in an environmentally and economically sound manner. Our projects support millions of people and provide essential water and power infrastructure across the Western United States. Working at the BOR means you are part of an organization dedicated to the sustainability of natural resources.