Are you a passionate engineer or physicist ready to shape the future of naval aviation? If you thrive on solving complex challenges in mission computing and processing systems, the Department of the Navy’s Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) has an exciting opportunity just for you. We’re on the lookout for innovative interdisciplinary engineers to join our team in Patuxent River, MD, where you’ll contribute to high-stakes projects that enhance mission performance, safety, and readiness. With a competitive salary range of $101,401 to $156,755 per year, this role isn’t just a job—it’s a launchpad for your career in federal government engineering.
In today’s fast-evolving defense landscape, roles like this demand expertise in physicist engineer positions and mission computing systems engineering. Whether you’re addressing obsolescence challenges or evaluating next-gen capabilities, you’ll be at the forefront of technological innovation. Keep reading to discover how this federal physicist job could be your next big move.
What Does an Interdisciplinary Engineer Do at NAVAIR?
As an interdisciplinary engineer, you’ll dive deep into the world of certified Mission Processing/Computing systems, ensuring they’re optimized for real-world naval operations. Based in the vibrant community of Patuxent River, MD, this position offers a blend of hands-on technical work and collaborative teamwork within integrated product teams (IPTs).
Here’s a snapshot of your day-to-day responsibilities:
- Review and Refine Operations: Scrutinize plans, participate in live operations, and pinpoint deficiencies, risks, or areas for improvement in mission processing systems.
- Drive Corrective Actions: Prescribe fixes for issues and assess emerging technologies to boost mission performance, safety, and overall readiness.
- Tackle Obsolescence Head-On: Support efforts to combat diminishing manufacturing sources and material shortages (DMSMS), while developing plans to minimize risks and elevate hardware/software performance.
- Advise on Contractor Efforts: Serve as a technical advisor to contractors and subcontractors, guiding engineering, design, development, production, and testing in line with contract requirements.
- Oversee Deliverables: Act as the go-to reviewer and approver for Contract Data Requirements List (CDRL) submissions, ensuring quality and compliance.
- Plan for the Future: Help define, investigate, and roadmap upgrades for mission computing and processing components.
This role is perfect for those with a background in naval engineering jobs or defense systems research, offering the chance to influence cutting-edge aerospace technologies.
Qualifications: Are You Ready for This Federal Engineering Challenge?
To excel in this interdisciplinary engineer role, you’ll need a mix of specialized experience and solid educational foundations. We’re seeking candidates with at least one year of experience equivalent to the DP-03 pay band in federal service (or private/public sector equivalent). Key must-haves include:
- Experience prescribing corrective actions and evaluating new capabilities to enhance mission performance, safety, and readiness.
- Hands-on work addressing obsolescence, developing risk-reduction plans, and optimizing mission computing hardware/software.
- Technical advisory support for contractor-led engineering, design, production, and testing.
- Proficiency in reviewing and approving technical deliverables like CDRLs.
- Skills in scoping future updates for mission systems and components.
- Ability to review operational plans, identify risks, and suggest improvements.
Education Requirements (tailored for engineering—08XX series—or physics—1310 series):
- For Engineers: A bachelor’s degree in engineering from an ABET-accredited program, or equivalent coursework in advanced physics, calculus, and engineering sciences (e.g., statics, fluid mechanics, thermodynamics). Alternatives include professional engineering licensure, passing the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam, or a combination of relevant education and supervised experience.
- For Physicists: A degree in physics or a related field with at least 24 semester hours in physics, including fundamentals like general physics plus two advanced topics (e.g., electricity and magnetism, modern physics, mechanics).
Why Choose NAVAIR? The Perks of Federal Physicist Engineer Jobs
Joining NAVAIR means more than just a paycheck—it’s about impacting national security while enjoying top-tier benefits. As a federal employee, you’ll access:
- Comprehensive Benefits Package: Health insurance, retirement plans, paid leave, and family support programs designed for long-term success.
- Telework Flexibility: Eligible as per agency policy, giving you work-life balance.
- Professional Growth: Covered under the Defense Acquisition Workforce Improvement Act (DAWIA), with required certifications to sharpen your acquisition skills.
- Occasional Travel Adventures: Expect some trips (CONUS/OCONUS) via military or commercial aircraft for dynamic project support.
- Security and Stability: Requires Top Secret clearance, plus priority placement for DoD employees and veteran considerations.
Patuxent River, MD, isn’t just a duty station—it’s a hub for aerospace innovation, with easy access to Washington, D.C., and a thriving community. Plus, several vacancies mean more chances to secure your spot in this rewarding environment.
How to Apply for This Patuxent River Engineering Opportunity
Ready to apply? This is a public notice flyer for anticipated vacancies, so act fast—the deadline is June 26, 2026. Applications aren’t accepted via USAJOBS for this one; instead:
- Submit your resume (max 2 pages) and application package to Dario Hashemi at dario.hashemi.civ@us.navy.mil.
- No faxes, please—everything must be received by the close date.
- Ensure your info is clear, accurate, and complete; HR won’t make changes.
- Veterans: Submit supporting docs if claiming preference.
Pro tip: Tailor your resume to highlight your mission computing experience and physics/engineering coursework. Incomplete packages won’t make the cut.
Take the Next Step in Your Defense Career Today
If you’re an engineer or physicist eager to innovate in federal recruitment for interdisciplinary roles, this NAVAIR position is calling your name. Don’t miss your chance to contribute to mission-critical systems that keep our nation safe. Apply now and propel your career forward!
For the full official job details, visit the original USAJOBS posting.
Source / To Apply Visit : https://physics.usajobs.gov/job/852657800