Aerospace Engineer: Leading F-35 Propulsion Systems for the Navy
Are you an experienced engineer with a passion for propulsion and aviation technology? The Naval Air Systems Command is hiring an Aerospace Engineer to serve as the F135 Propulsion System Technical Lead. This critical role ensures that the heart of the F-35 aircraft remains operational, safe, and ready to meet the demands of modern national security.
Job Responsibilities
As the Technical Lead, you will spearhead efforts to transition JSF (F-135/F-136) engines from acquisition into the field. Key duties include:
- Developing technical directives, manuals, and support documentation.
- Serving as the subject matter expert for engine type-model-series.
- Developing core depot technologies to ensure continuous maintenance and repair capability.
Requirements
To qualify, you must possess a professional engineering degree from an ABET-accredited school or meet specific science-based education benchmarks. Furthermore, you must demonstrate at least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-13 level, specifically in propulsion engineering, safety improvements, and engineering project management.
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive salary ranging from $125,776 to $163,514 annually, commensurate with your qualifications and federal pay regulations. Beyond the base salary, federal employees enjoy a robust financial safety net.
Benefits
The Navy offers a comprehensive compensation package that includes health insurance, generous retirement programs, and significant work-life balance initiatives. Employees benefit from stable federal employment, consistent salary adjustments, and clear professional development paths.
Application Tips
- Quality over Quantity: Keep your resume strictly under 2 pages. Focus on high-impact accomplishments rather than exhaustive task lists.
- Quantify Results: Mention cost savings, efficiency gains, or specific safety improvements you pioneered.
- Verify Eligibility: If you are a veteran or a federal employee looking for promotion, ensure your DD-214 or SF-50 forms are accurate and uploaded.
Serving as the F135 Propulsion System Technical Lead is more than a job—it is a responsibility to the pilots and the fleet. If you are ready to apply your technical expertise to the future of Naval aviation, submit your application package before the closing date.
Why This Aerospace Engineer Job Matters
Launch your career to new heights by serving as the F135 Propulsion System Technical Lead for the legendary F-35 Aircraft—where engineering innovation meets national security.
Aerospace Engineer Job Overview
The Naval Air Systems Command is seeking a highly skilled Aerospace Engineer to join the FST Engineering Division. As a technical lead, you will be the operational expert responsible for the F135 engine program, ensuring the readiness, safety, and reliability of one of the world's most advanced aircraft. This role is pivotal in transitioning engines from acquisition to operational status and supporting vital depot repair capabilities.
Requirements for Aerospace Engineer
- U.S. Citizenship
- Bachelor's degree or higher in an ABET-accredited engineering program or equivalent specialized experience in physical/mathematical sciences.
- Minimum of one year of specialized experience at the GS-13 grade level or equivalent.
- Proven track record of engineering project management and propulsion system analysis.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
- Financial disclosure filing required.
Preferred Qualifications for Aerospace Engineer
- Professional Engineer (PE) licensure or EIT/FE certification.
- Extensive experience with Naval Air Vehicle Propulsion Engineering.
- Demonstrated ability to resolve complex engineering issues resulting in improved aircraft safety or fleet readiness.
- Strong technical writing skills for creating manuals, directives, and documentation.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Federal salary schedule.
- ✓Comprehensive health and life insurance options.
- ✓Federal retirement benefits including FERS and Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- ✓Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
- ✓Extensive professional development and training opportunities.
- ✓Telework eligibility as permitted by agency policy.
💡 How to Apply Aerospace Engineer Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Aerospace Engineer Job
- Prepare a concise resume (maximum 2 pages) highlighting relevant experience and key technical accomplishments.
- Log into your USAJOBS account to complete the application questionnaire.
- Upload supporting documentation, including transcripts and, if applicable, SF-50s for current federal employees.
- Ensure all documents are legible and uploaded prior to the closing date.
- Review your application status via the USAJOBS portal.
💡 General Tips
- Use the USAJOBS Resume Builder to ensure all required fields like pay plan, series, and grade are captured.
- Explicitly detail your specialized experience related to propulsion systems and engineering project leadership.
- Submit all required proof of education and certification early to avoid technical delays.
- Double-check that your resume explicitly links your experience to the performance outcomes listed in the job duties.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary focus of this position?
The role acts as the F135 Propulsion System Technical Lead, coordinating engine transitions, developing technical directives, and ensuring depot-level support for F-35 engines.
Can I work remotely?
The position is telework eligible, but it is not a fully remote position and requires physical presence at one of the designated duty locations.
How do I know if I qualify?
Carefully review the OPM engineering standards referenced in the full job description. Your experience must mirror the technical requirements for aerospace engineering.
Is there an interview process?
Yes, the recruitment process includes a structured interview and a technical resume review.
Job from Naval Air Systems Command
The Department of the Navy (DON) is dedicated to protecting the nation's interests through maritime and aviation superiority. By joining the civilian workforce at the Naval Air Systems Command, you become part of a collaborative, high-stakes environment where engineering excellence defines success.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary Range | $125,776 - $163,514 |
| Security Clearance | Secret |
| Telework Status | Eligible |
| Locations | Jacksonville, FL; Tinker AFB, OK; Fort Worth, TX |