Engineering the Future: Join the Naval Surface Warfare Center at Crane
Are you an engineer or scientist looking to apply your technical expertise to projects that directly impact national security? The Naval Surface Warfare Center (NSWC) Crane is currently hiring for a high-level Engineer/Scientist to spearhead initiatives within the Systems Safety Branch. This role offers an extraordinary opportunity to work at the intersection of innovation, safety, and defense.
Job Responsibilities
As the Chief Engineer for Weapon Systems Safety, you will take on a multifaceted leadership role:
- Technical Leadership: Serve as the primary advocate for weapon systems safety.
- Safety Compliance: Ensure strict adherence to MIL-STD-882E and other critical defense acquisition directives.
- Review Boards: Represent the agency in high-level panels, including the Joint Services Weapon Safety Review Board.
- Risk Management: Lead the adjudication of safety risks prior to live-fire testing.
- Mentorship: Foster the growth of junior engineers and enhance the team's overall subject matter expertise.
Requirements
To be considered for this elite role, you must demonstrate the following:
- Professional Credentials: A degree in an engineering, physical science, or mathematical field as defined by OPM standards.
- Experience: One year of specialized experience at the ND-04 (GS-12/13) level.
- Security: Ability to obtain and hold an SCI clearance.
- Readiness: Successful passing of pre-employment drug screening.
Salary and Comparison
This role offers a competitive compensation package commensurate with experience and the complexity of the responsibilities.
| Pay Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary Range | $125,776 - $192,331 |
| Pay Basis | Per Year |
| Pay Schedule | Warfare Centers Demo (ND) |
| Promotion Potential | None |
Benefits
The Navy is committed to the well-being of its workforce, providing:
- Excellent health insurance choices.
- Comprehensive retirement benefits including the Thrift Savings Plan.
- Substantial paid time off.
- Professional growth and training opportunities.
Application Tips
- Tailor Your Resume: Use the USAJOBS Resume Builder to avoid missing key required data points like salary and hours worked.
- Keep it Concise: Your resume must be under 2 pages.
- Evidence Matters: If claiming specialized experience, link it directly to the requirements listed in the announcement.
This role is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the safety and success of our sailors. If you are a visionary engineer or scientist ready to take the next step in your career, we encourage you to submit your application to NSWC Crane before November 5, 2026.
Why This Engineer/Scientist Job Matters
Lead the future of weapon system safety at the cutting edge of naval innovation with the Naval Surface Warfare Center Crane.
Engineer/Scientist Job Overview
The Naval Surface Warfare Center (NSWC) Crane is seeking a dedicated Engineer or Scientist to serve as the Chief Engineer for Weapon Systems Safety within the Systems Safety Branch. This pivotal role involves directing safety programs, ensuring compliance with rigorous military standards, and providing technical advocacy for weapon systems development. You will play a crucial role in safeguarding mission success, guiding complex risk adjudications, and mentoring engineering teams in an environment where innovation meets national security.
Requirements for Engineer/Scientist
- U.S. Citizenship is required.
- Must be able to obtain and maintain a Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) security clearance.
- Minimum of one year of specialized experience equivalent to the ND-04 (GS-12/13) pay band.
- Must meet basic education requirements for the relevant occupational series (0801, 1301, 1501, 1515, or 1550).
- Must successfully complete an initial drug screening and adhere to random testing requirements.
- Submission of a complete application package, including a 2-page maximum resume.
Preferred Qualifications for Engineer/Scientist
- Advanced technical subject matter expertise in system safety engineering.
- Proven experience with MIL-STD-882E and Department of War acquisition safety directives.
- Strong leadership capabilities in mentoring staff and managing multi-disciplinary engineering teams.
- Demonstrated success in strategic partnership development with academic, industry, and government entities.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary structure.
- ✓Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance options.
- ✓Federal retirement savings plan (TSP) with matching contributions.
- ✓Generous paid leave, including annual, sick, and federal holidays.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and continuous technical training.
- ✓Work-life balance programs, including telework eligibility.
💡 How to Apply Engineer/Scientist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Engineer/Scientist Job
- Create or log into your account on the official USAJOBS portal.
- Prepare a focused, 2-page resume highlighting specialized engineering or scientific experience.
- Compile necessary supporting documents, such as transcripts, SF-50s, or veterans' preference documentation.
- Submit your complete application package before the closing date of November 5, 2026.
- Monitor your application status via your online dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Use the built-in resume builder to ensure all mandatory employment dates, hours per week, and salary information are included.
- Be specific about your accomplishments; vague descriptions may result in a lower rating.
- Ensure your transcripts are legible and include all relevant coursework if education is being used to qualify.
- Double-check that all required supporting documents for eligibility claims are attached before hitting submit.
- Keep your resume concise and strictly adhere to the 2-page limit to ensure it is considered.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Warfare Centers Personnel Demonstration Project?
This is a specialized pay-for-performance system designed to provide greater flexibility in hiring, pay, and career progression for technical professionals within the Navy's warfare centers, replacing the traditional GS schedule.
Can I work remotely for this position?
This position is located in Crane, Indiana, and requires on-site presence. While the role is telework-eligible, it is not a fully remote position.
What happens if I submit my application after the deadline?
Applications received after 11:59 PM EST on November 5, 2026, will generally be considered ineligible.
What if my degree isn't in engineering?
*A: Several related fields in physical science, math, and computer science are accepted, provided specific coursework requirements are met.*
Is this position permanent?
*A: The position is for 5 years, with the opportunity to make it permanent without further competition.*
Job from Naval Sea Systems Command
The Naval Surface Warfare Center Crane is a critical component of the Naval Sea Systems Command. Nestled in Indiana, this facility is renowned for its cutting-edge research, development, and engineering services. Employees here contribute to the mission of the Department of the Navy, ensuring that the fleet is equipped with the safest, most effective, and reliable weapons systems possible.