Are you a skilled systems engineer, operations research analyst, mathematician, or computer scientist passionate about advancing missile defense systems for the U.S. Navy? The Naval Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren Division (NSWCDD) is actively seeking talented professionals through an open public notice flyer for interdisciplinary Engineer/Scientist positions (ND-03 and ND-04 levels).
Posted on the official USAJOBS AI portal (job ID 848470100), this announcement targets future vacancies in warfare architecture and engineering — ideal for experts in Agile development, DevSecOps, Data Analytics, and Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE).
If you’re a U.S. citizen ready to contribute to cutting-edge surface fleet capabilities, read on for full details, qualifications, salary insights, and application guidance.
Position Overview: Next Generation Missile Defense Systems Engineer/Scientist
Job Title: Engineer/Scientist (Interdisciplinary) Series/Grade: ND-03 or ND-04
- General Engineer (0801)
- Operations Research Analyst (1515)
- Mathematician (1520)
- Computer Scientist (1550)
Location: Dahlgren, Virginia (few vacancies expected) Agency: Department of the Navy – Naval Sea Systems Command, Naval Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren Division Appointment Type: Permanent, Full-Time Telework: Ad-hoc/situational telework eligible (at management’s discretion) Security Clearance: Secret (interim/final required; must obtain and maintain) Travel: Occasional (CONUS/OCONUS, including remote/isolated sites via military/commercial aircraft)
This is a public notice flyer — not an immediate application posting. It announces anticipated vacancies under the Warfare Centers Personnel Demonstration Project. Actual openings may be filled at ND-03 or ND-04 levels, with promotion potential to ND-04.
Salary and Pay Bands (2025-2026 Rates)
- ND-03: $69,923 – $109,975 per year (roughly equivalent to GS-09 through GS-11)
- ND-04: $101,401 – $156,755 per year (roughly equivalent to GS-12/13)
Pay depends on experience, education, and qualifications. These competitive federal salaries come with comprehensive benefits, including health insurance, retirement plans, paid leave, and more.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
As a Next Generation Missile Defense Systems Engineer, you’ll join the Integrated Combat Systems Department to shape the future of naval warfare systems. Core responsibilities include:
- Performing engineering analysis to identify and recommend warfare systems that meet surface fleet capability needs
- Consulting on software system design, maintenance, and documentation (technical reports/specifications)
- Defining project scope, developing architectures/requirements, and exploring integration options for future systems
- Applying Agile, DevSecOps, Data Analytics, and MBSE best practices in warfare system development
- Solving complex technical problems, researching emerging technologies, and providing expert input to stakeholders
- Coordinating with architects, developers, and teams to deliver innovative design solutions
This role offers hands-on impact on national defense through advanced systems engineering.
Qualifications and Requirements
Basic Education Requirements (OPM Standards)
Applicants must meet positive education requirements for one of the series:
- 0801 Engineering: Bachelor’s in engineering (ABET-accredited preferred) or equivalent combination of education/experience
- 1515 Operations Research: Degree in operations research or 24+ semester hours in relevant math/stats/science
- 1520 Mathematics: Degree in mathematics or equivalent with 24+ semester hours
- 1550 Computer Science: Degree in computer science or bachelor’s with 30+ semester hours in math/stats/CS (including calculus)
Specialized Experience
- ND-03: 1+ year at ND-02 level (or GS-05–08 equivalent) applying basic systems engineering principles to solve complex problems
- ND-04: 1+ year at ND-03 level (or GS-09–11 equivalent) applying systems engineering to research, analyze, and execute assignments — including experience with systems analysis/design, Agile/DevSecOps/MBSE tools, and conventional engineering tools
Other Conditions of Employment
- U.S. citizenship required
- Eligible for federal employment and direct deposit
- Selective Service registration (males born after 12/31/59)
- DAWIA certification in relevant acquisition category (within timeframes)
- Ability to obtain/maintain Secret clearance
- No drug testing or financial disclosure required
Veterans’ preference does not apply under this direct-hire authority, but supporting docs are requested if claimed.
How to Apply for This Navy Engineering Opportunity
This flyer does not accept applications directly. To be considered for future vacancies:
- Prepare a concise resume (max 2 pages) highlighting relevant experience, duties, accomplishments, dates, hours/week, and federal pay plan/series/grade (if applicable).
- Gather required documents: transcripts (unofficial OK initially), DD-214/VA letters (for veterans), professional licenses/certifications, etc.
- Email your resume/application package to: DLGF_NSWC_jobinfo@navy.mil
- Subject line should reference the flyer/job interest
- Verify receipt and legibility — HR won’t modify submissions
- Contact: DLGR_NSWC Job Info at (540) 653-8943 or Dlgr_nswc_jobinfo@navy.mil
Applications accepted through October 20, 2026 (or until filled). Monitor USAJOBS or contact the agency for updates.
Why Join NSWCDD in Dahlgren, VA?
Work on mission-critical missile defense and combat systems for the Navy. Enjoy federal benefits, professional growth, and the chance to innovate in Agile/DevSecOps/MBSE environments. Dahlgren offers a blend of cutting-edge defense work and a scenic Virginia location.
Ready to advance your career in federal systems engineering or missile defense technology? Prepare your materials and reach out today — opportunities like this support national security and reward top talent.
Job Source – https://ai.usajobs.gov/job/848470100