The U.S. Department of the Navy is currently seeking talented professionals for an Engineer/Scientist position within the Naval Sea Systems Command at the Naval Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren Division. This role offers a unique chance to work on cutting-edge combat system integration and systems engineering projects. If you’re searching for high-paying engineering jobs in Virginia or scientist positions in defense technology, this could be your next big step. Let’s dive into the details of this federal job opening.
Job Overview: What You Need to Know
This Engineer/Scientist vacancy is part of the Systems of Systems Engineering Branch in the Warfare Architecture and Engineering Division. Located in Dahlgren, VA, this position is ideal for those with expertise in systems engineering, agile development, and Model-Based System Engineering (MBSE).
- Job Title: Engineer/Scientist
- Announcement Number: DE-12828058-26-JLM
- Agency: Department of the Navy, Naval Sea Systems Command, Naval Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren Division
- Location: 1 vacancy in Dahlgren, VA
- Salary Range: $101,401 to $156,755 per year
- Open Period: November 3, 2025, to November 2, 2026
- Series and Grade: ND-4 (equivalent to GS-12/13)
- Security Clearance: Top Secret (required to obtain and maintain)
With a competitive salary and opportunities for growth, this role stands out among government engineering jobs and defense scientist careers. It’s perfect for professionals eager to contribute to advanced naval technologies.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
As an Engineer/Scientist in this role, you’ll be at the forefront of innovative defense projects. Your daily work will involve:
- Performing advanced combat system integration technical activities, focusing on systems like AEGIS, LCS, DDG 1000, and SSDS.
- Executing systems engineering, requirements engineering, architecture engineering, and initial design for advanced integration concepts.
- Leading and managing system engineering efforts, providing programmatic support to sponsors and stakeholders.
- Developing architecture, requirements, and integration options for surface combat systems.
- Creating integration concept models, white papers, and supporting performance and cost analyses.
- Collaborating with teams to upgrade capabilities in combat systems and integrate new weapons.
This position emphasizes agile development, data analytics, and MBSE tools, making it a great fit for those experienced in fast-paced prototyping with government, industry, FFRDC, and UARC partners. If you thrive in environments where systems engineering principles drive warfighter capabilities, this defense engineering job in Dahlgren, VA, is tailored for you.
Qualifications and Requirements
To qualify for this Engineer/Scientist position, candidates must meet specific education and experience criteria. Here’s what the Navy is looking for:
Basic Requirements
- U.S. Citizenship: Required.
- Selective Service: Males born after December 31, 1959, must be registered.
- Security Clearance: Must obtain and maintain a Top Secret clearance.
- Drug Testing: Successful completion of a pre-employment drug test (including marijuana); subject to random testing.
- Direct Deposit: Participation in the direct deposit pay program.
- Travel: May require travel to CONUS and OCONUS sites, including remote locations.
- DAWIA Certification: Required in the assigned Acquisition Functional Area within established timeframes.
- E-Verify: New employees must pass employment verification.
Specialized Experience
Applicants need at least one year of specialized experience at the ND-03 level (GS-09 to GS-11 equivalent) in federal service or equivalent in the private/public sector. This includes:
- Applying systems engineering principles to research, analyze, evaluate, and develop software-intensive systems.
- Experience with systems engineering analysis and design.
- Proficiency in agile development, data analytics, and MBSE tools.
- Leading prototyping activities with diverse teams.
- Conducting engineering design, development, and analysis to recommend systems functionality for warfighters.
Education Requirements
A bachelor’s degree or higher is mandatory, depending on the series:
- For 0801/0850 Engineering Series: Degree in engineering from an ABET-accredited program, or equivalent with coursework in calculus, physics, and engineering sciences. Alternatives include professional registration, passing the Fundamentals of Engineering exam, or related curriculum with professional experience.
- For 1520 Mathematics Series: Degree in mathematics or equivalent with at least 24 semester hours in math, plus relevant experience.
- For 1550 Computer Science Series: Degree in computer science or bachelor’s with 30 semester hours in math, statistics, and computer science (including 15 hours in calculus and statistics).
Transcripts or proof of education must support any claims. Volunteer work through National Service programs can count toward experience.
How You’ll Be Evaluated
Your application will be assessed based on your resume (limited to 2 pages) and supporting documents. The Human Resources Office will review for eligibility and qualifications. Focus on clearly demonstrating your skills in systems engineering, combat systems integration, and related areas. Errors or omissions could affect your rating, so ensure your resume highlights relevant experience, job titles, duties, and accomplishments.
How to Apply: Step-by-Step Guide
Ready to apply for this Engineer/Scientist job at the Naval Surface Warfare Center? Follow these steps:
- Submit Your Resume and Application: Email to DLGR_NSWC_jobinfo@navy.mil with the subject line referencing DE-12828058-26-JLM. Resumes must be no more than 2 pages and legible.
- Include Required Documents:
- Complete resume with job history, dates, hours worked, and pay details.
- Proof of certifications, licenses, or professional memberships if claimed.
- Transcripts or education documentation.
- Veterans’ preference documents (e.g., DD-214, VA letter, SF-15).
- Statement of service for active duty members.
- Deadline: Applications accepted until November 2, 2026, but apply early as vacancies fill quickly.
- Note: Facsimile applications not accepted. It’s your responsibility to ensure all materials are accurate and received.
Failure to submit a complete package may result in disqualification. For tips on building a strong federal resume, check resources from the Office of Personnel Management.
Benefits of Working for the Department of the Navy
Joining the federal government as an Engineer/Scientist comes with a robust benefits package:
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
- Retirement plans, including Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
- Life insurance and long-term care options.
- Flexible work schedules and telework opportunities.
- Professional development and training programs.
As a federal employee, you’ll enjoy job security, work-life balance, and the satisfaction of contributing to national security through advanced naval engineering and science.
Why This Job Could Be Your Next Career Move
In a competitive job market for systems engineers and defense scientists, this position at the Naval Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren Division offers unparalleled opportunities to innovate in combat systems and architecture engineering. With a salary up to $156,755 and the chance to work on mission-critical projects, it’s an ideal role for mid-career professionals in Virginia.
Don’t miss out—apply today and take your engineering or science career to the next level. For more federal job opportunities in defense technology, explore USAJOBS or similar listings in systems engineering jobs.
Job Source – https://mathematics.usajobs.gov/job/848470100