Become an Engineering Technician with the Bureau of Reclamation
Are you looking to pivot your technical expertise into a mission-driven career? The Bureau of Reclamation is currently seeking a dedicated Engineering Technician to join their team in Boise, Idaho. This position plays a critical role in supporting the agency's mission to manage and protect the nation's water resources. With a pay scale ranging from GS-09 to GS-11, this role offers an exceptional opportunity for professional development and meaningful federal service.
Job Responsibilities
As an Engineering Technician, your daily tasks will vary to support engineers and geologists. Key responsibilities include:
- Developing state-of-the-art engineering designs using CADD, GIS, and specialized software.
- Preparing layout drawings for electric, civil, and mechanical projects.
- Extracting engineering data from records and drawings to create detailed reports.
- Exercising professional judgment to recommend project plans.
- Collaborating with interdisciplinary teams, including computer specialists and subject matter experts.
Requirements
To qualify for this position, applicants must meet specific criteria defined by the Office of Personnel Management. These include:
- U.S. Citizenship.
- A clean background investigation.
- Relevant specialized experience at the GS-08, GS-09, or GS-10 level (depending on the target grade).
- A maximum 2-page resume detailing your work history and hours per week.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary | $61,722 - $97,087 |
| Location | Boise, Idaho |
| Grade Levels | GS-09 to GS-11 |
| Telework Eligible | Yes |
Salary Overview
Compensation is based on the General Schedule (GS) pay scale.
- GS-09: $61,722 to $80,243
- GS-10: $67,970 to $88,356
- GS-11: $74,678 to $97,087
Benefits
Employees of the Bureau of Reclamation enjoy a comprehensive federal benefits package, including:
- Health, vision, and dental insurance.
- Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- Thrift Savings Plan (401k-style) with matching.
- Paid leave and federal holidays.
Application Tips
To stand out, ensure your resume is concise and strictly follows the 2-page limit. Emphasize your technical proficiency in Autodesk and CADD systems. Always include your most recent performance appraisal to ensure you receive 'due weight' for your achievements.
If you are ready to combine your engineering technical skills with a desire to serve the public, the Bureau of Reclamation is the place for you. Apply today to help build a sustainable future in Boise.
Why This Engineering Technician Job Matters
Shape the future of the American West with the Bureau of Reclamation as an Engineering Technician in Boise, Idaho.
Engineering Technician Job Overview
The Bureau of Reclamation invites skilled engineering professionals to join our team in Boise, Idaho. In this role, you will contribute directly to managing, protecting, and developing water and related resources. You will work alongside engineers and geologists to provide technical support, develop engineering designs, and assist in vital infrastructure projects. This position offers a ladder opportunity from GS-09 to GS-11, providing significant professional growth while making a tangible impact on the environment and public infrastructure.
Requirements for Engineering Technician
- Must be a U.S. Citizen or National.
- Must pass a background investigation.
- Males born after 12-31-59 must register for Selective Service.
- Must sign up for direct deposit of salary.
- Must pass the E-Verify employment verification process.
- Resumes must be limited to 2 pages maximum.
- Must meet specialized experience requirements for the specific grade level (GS-09, GS-10, or GS-11).
- Submission of official transcripts if qualifying based on education.
Preferred Qualifications for Engineering Technician
- Proficiency in Autodesk Data Platform (ADP) and CADD systems.
- Experience with Geographic Information Systems (GIS).
- Strong technical reporting and narrative writing skills.
- Proven ability to perform complex engineering computations.
- Experience in cross-functional collaboration with engineers, geologists, and computer specialists.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal health insurance plans
- ✓Life insurance options
- ✓Retirement programs (FERS)
- ✓Paid time off, including sick and annual leave
- ✓Federal holidays
- ✓Potential for telework
- ✓Professional development and training opportunities
💡 How to Apply Engineering Technician Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Engineering Technician Job
- Review the full job announcement on USAJobs.
- Prepare a 2-page resume highlighting specialized experience and hours worked per week.
- Gather supporting documents (transcripts, SF-50s, performance appraisals).
- Complete the online application questionnaire.
- Submit your application and documentation by the closing date.
- Complete the required USA Hire Assessments if prompted via email.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume clearly states 'full-time' or 'part-time' with the number of hours worked to receive proper credit.
- Do not exceed the 2-page limit for your resume, as longer documents will not be reviewed.
- Submit your most recent performance appraisal and any relevant awards from the last 5 years.
- Ensure you select all relevant hiring authorities (e.g., Veteran, Military Spouse) to be considered for specific paths.
- Save at least 3 hours for the USA Hire Assessment process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I substitute my education for experience?
Yes, for the GS-09 level, you may substitute two full years of progressively higher-level graduate education directly related to the position for the required experience.
What happens if I don't submit my performance appraisal?
Failure to submit required documents, including your most recent performance appraisal, may result in an incomplete application package and loss of consideration.
Is telework available for this position?
Yes, this position is eligible for telework, subject to agency policy and supervisory approval.
What is the closing date for this application?
The position closes on November 16, 2026.
Do I need a degree?
While experience is preferred, you may substitute two years of graduate education for experience at the GS-09 level.
Job from Bureau Of Reclamation
The Department of the Interior (DOI) acts as the steward of America's natural resources and cultural heritage. Within the DOI, the Bureau of Reclamation is the leader in water management. Our mission is to manage, develop, and protect water and related resources in an environmentally and economically sound manner, ensuring that the American public has reliable access to these vital assets.