Become an Electrical Engineer with the Bureau of Reclamation
Are you looking to apply your engineering expertise to projects that make a tangible difference in the American West? The Bureau of Reclamation (BOR) is currently seeking a highly skilled Electrical Engineer to join the Power Division in Billings, Montana. This position offers a unique chance to work on critical water and power infrastructure that serves the public interest.
Job Responsibilities
As an Electrical Engineer, you will perform a wide range of tasks designed to keep our energy systems operational and efficient:
- Engineering Analysis: Conduct technical planning, modeling, and troubleshooting for hydropower and transmission systems.
- Construction Management: Oversee electrical project construction, perform on-site inspections, and manage contractor submittals.
- System Reliability: Provide expertise in diagnostics, maintenance programs, and the optimization of Industrial Control Systems (ICS).
- Documentation: Prepare technical reports, design criteria, and cost estimates.
- Mentorship: Participate in technical working groups and mentor junior engineers.
Requirements
Applicants must meet both basic educational requirements and specific specialized experience to qualify.
| Requirement Type | Criteria |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | Must be a U.S. Citizen or National |
| Education | Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (ABET accredited) or equivalent combination |
| Experience (GS-11) | One year of specialized experience equivalent to GS-9 |
| Experience (GS-12) | One year of specialized experience equivalent to GS-11 (Team Lead level) |
| Additional | Must hold a valid driver's license and pass a physical assessment |
Salary Overview
This position offers competitive federal compensation with potential for growth:
- GS-11: $99,954 – $119,097 per year
- GS-12: $104,502 – $127,443 per year
Benefits
Working for the federal government provides a robust benefits package, including:
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
- Participation in the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- Paid time off (Annual and Sick Leave).
- Opportunities for continuous training and career development.
Application Tips
- Resume Accuracy: Ensure your resume clearly states the hours worked per week for each position.
- Formatting: Stick to the two-page limit and use a 10-point font or larger.
- Supporting Docs: Include all transcripts and veteran’s preference documentation if applicable.
If you are ready to apply your technical skills to improve critical infrastructure in the West, this role at the Bureau of Reclamation is your next great step. Submit your application today and help us protect and manage the nation's precious water and power resources.
Why This Electrical Engineer Job Matters
Power your career with the Bureau of Reclamation and play a critical role in managing the energy and water resources that sustain the American West.
Electrical Engineer Job Overview
The Bureau of Reclamation is seeking a motivated and skilled Electrical Engineer to join our Power Division in Billings, Montana. In this pivotal role, you will perform complex engineering analyses and oversee the reliability of hydropower and transmission systems. Whether you are conducting field inspections, designing electrical infrastructure, or leading construction projects, your contributions will directly support our mission to manage and protect vital natural resources. This is an exceptional opportunity for a professional looking to apply technical expertise to large-scale, high-impact public infrastructure projects.
Requirements for Electrical Engineer
- Must be a U.S. Citizen or National.
- Males born after December 31, 1959, must be registered for Selective Service.
- Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license.
- Must pass a background investigation and suitability adjudication.
- Participation in direct deposit is mandatory.
- Must pass the E-Verify employment verification check.
- Must be at least 18 years of age to operate government vehicles.
- Must complete a 1-year probationary period.
- Must meet physical fitness standards as the role requires field work.
Preferred Qualifications for Electrical Engineer
- Experience in the design, repair, and testing of electrical equipment within a generation facility.
- Expertise in Industrial Control Systems (ICS) and SCADA networks.
- Proficiency with control circuits, relay/protection circuits, and power generation equipment.
- Demonstrated experience serving as a team lead or project lead on complex electrical engineering initiatives.
- Strong understanding of cost estimation and technical specification development.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- âś“Comprehensive federal health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
- âś“Federal retirement benefits, including the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- âś“Generous paid annual and sick leave accrual.
- âś“Federal holiday pay.
- âś“Opportunities for professional development and career progression.
- âś“Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives for qualified candidates.
đź’ˇ How to Apply Electrical Engineer Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Electrical Engineer Job
- Prepare a resume that specifically details your relevant experience, including hours worked per week and dates in month-year format.
- Review all required documentation, including transcripts and veteran's preference documents.
- Access the official online application portal to complete the required questionnaire.
- Upload all necessary documents, ensuring the resume does not exceed two pages.
- Submit the complete application package before the closing date of November 17, 2026.
đź’ˇ General Tips
- Ensure your resume clearly distinguishes between different grade levels if you have federal experience.
- Do not exceed the two-page limit for your resume, as longer documents will not be accepted.
- Use standard 10-point font and 0.5-inch margins for your resume to ensure it is readable by the automated systems.
- Verify that your transcript clearly displays your name, school name, and degree conferred date.
- Submit your application well before the deadline to account for any potential technical delays.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I substitute education for experience at the GS-12 level?
No, at the GS-12 grade level, this position requires specific specialized experience and does not allow for the substitution of education.
What is the work environment like for this position?
The role involves a mix of office and field work. You will encounter various environmental conditions, including high noise levels, extreme temperatures, and proximity to rotating heavy machinery.
Is travel required for this role?
Yes, the position involves travel for field inspections, construction oversight, and work at remote sites, which may require overnight stays.
Can I update my application after submission?
*A: Yes, you can edit your application via your USAJOBS account while the announcement remains open.*
What is the probationary period?
*A: New employees are required to serve a one-year probationary period to evaluate performance and mission alignment.*
Job from Bureau Of Reclamation
The Department of the Interior’s Bureau of Reclamation manages, develops, and protects water and related resources in an environmentally and economically sound manner. By working with the BOR, you are contributing to a legacy of infrastructure management that balances increasing water demands with environmental stewardship.