Engineering Excellence: Mechanical Engineer at Norfolk Naval Shipyard

The United States Navy is at the forefront of maritime technology and global defense. We are currently looking for a skilled Mechanical Engineer to join the Propulsion Machinery Branch at the historic Norfolk Naval Shipyard. This is an opportunity to apply high-level engineering principles to the maintenance and repair of complex vessel systems, ensuring our fleet remains ready for any mission.

Job Responsibilities

In this role, you will lead the technical design and repair processes for main propulsion equipment. Key duties include:

Technical Leadership: Providing guidance for ship installation drawings and Task Group Instructions.
Problem Solving: Identifying and fixing technical issues during the testing and production phases of ship repair.
Analysis: Performing complex engineering calculations for system designs.
Procurement: Specifying materials and services required for specialized propulsion projects.

Requirements

To qualify for this position, applicants must demonstrate:

A bachelor’s degree from an ABET-accredited engineering program or equivalent coursework.
One year of specialized experience at the GS-11 level or equivalent.
Practical knowledge of propulsion turbines, reduction gears, and shafting.
Proficiency in SUBSAFE and Steam Plant Cleanliness protocols.

Candidate Comparison Table

Feature	Minimum Requirement	Preferred Qualification
Education	ABET-accredited B.S. Engineering	Advanced Engineering Degree
Certification	N/A	Professional Engineer (PE) License
Experience	1 Year Specialized (GS-11)	3+ Years in Naval Maintenance
Clearance	Secret Ability	Current Secret Clearance

Salary and Benefits

This position offers a competitive salary range of $90,838 to $118,092 per year. Federal employees also enjoy a suite of benefits, including comprehensive health coverage, a federal pension (FERS), the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP), and generous paid leave policies.

Application Tips

Keep it Brief: Your resume must be two pages or less.
Be Detailed: Clearly state your engineering experience, including pay plans and series.
Upload Proof: Include all relevant transcripts and, if applicable, your SF-50 forms.

Serving as a Mechanical Engineer for the Department of the Navy is more than a job—it is a mission to protect the nation. If you meet the qualifications and are ready to tackle complex marine engineering challenges, we encourage you to apply.

Why This Mechanical Engineer Job Matters

Power the Navy’s elite fleet as a Mechanical Engineer at the historic Norfolk Naval Shipyard.

Mechanical Engineer Job Overview

The Department of the Navy is seeking a dedicated Mechanical Engineer to join the Propulsion Machinery Branch at the Norfolk Naval Shipyard in Portsmouth, Virginia. You will play a critical role in maintaining the operational readiness of the fleet by providing technical expertise for complex ship and submarine propulsion systems. This position offers an opportunity to work at the intersection of engineering innovation and national defense, ensuring that our vessels remain at the cutting edge of performance.

Requirements for Mechanical Engineer

U.S. Citizenship.
Completion of a bachelor's degree in an accredited engineering program or equivalent scientific curriculum.
At least one year of specialized experience at or equivalent to the GS-11 grade level.
Advanced knowledge of mechanical propulsion systems, including turbines, reduction gears, and propulsion shafting.
Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
Demonstrated expertise in SUBSAFE, Level I, and Steam Plant Cleanliness protocols.

Preferred Qualifications for Mechanical Engineer

Licensure as a Professional Engineer (PE).
Current registration as an Engineer-in-Training (EIT).
Experience in complex naval ship overhaul and repair project management.
Proven track record in leadership and technical project execution.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive health and life insurance options.
✓Federal retirement benefits including FERS and Thrift Savings Plan.
✓Paid federal holidays, vacation, and sick leave.
✓Extensive professional development and training programs.
✓Opportunities for career advancement within the Department of the Navy.

💡 How to Apply Mechanical Engineer Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Mechanical Engineer Job

Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
Prepare a resume restricted to a maximum of 2 pages, detailing your specific engineering experience.
Collect all required supporting documentation, including transcripts and SF-50s if applicable.
Submit your complete application package through the online portal by the closing date.
Monitor your application status via the USAJOBS dashboard.

💡 General Tips

Use the USAJOBS Resume Builder to ensure all required information like hours worked and pay grade is included.
Be specific about your experience with propulsion systems and engineering standards.
Double-check that your transcripts clearly demonstrate the required engineering science credits.
Do not submit redundant resumes; only the most recent submission will be reviewed.
Ensure all uploaded documents are legible and uncorrupted.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary mission of this engineering role?

You will manage and provide technical guidance for ship installation drawings, maintenance procedures, and propulsion system repairs to ensure the operational integrity of Navy vessels.

Are there specific education requirements for this job?

Yes, you must hold a bachelor's degree in an accredited engineering program or have completed at least 60 semester hours of engineering-related courses that meet specific OPM standards.

Is a security clearance required?

Yes, this position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.

Can I apply if I don't have a PE license?

*A: Yes, a PE license is preferred but not required if you meet the educational and experience requirements.*

What is the work location?

*A: This position is located at the Norfolk Naval Shipyard in Portsmouth, Virginia.*

Job from United States Fleet Forces Command

The Department of the Navy (DON) is committed to safeguarding national freedoms through innovation and the combined talents of military and civilian personnel. Civilian employees at the Norfolk Naval Shipyard are essential to the logistical and technical success of the Navy, working on everything from submarines to aircraft carriers.