Summary The primary purpose of this position is to serve as a professional mechanical engineer, performing design, project programming and construction management/monitoring duties in support of a military installation. This is a developmental position with known promotion potential to the target position of Mechanical Engineer, GS-0830(99)-12.
Click on "Learn more about this agency" button below to view Eligibilities being considered and other IMPORTANT information. Duties
- Performs planning and design work for substantial multi-phase new construction, renovations, and improvement projects for real property facilities, including utility systems, utilizing a professional knowledge of mechanical engineering.
- Manages projects for new construction, renovations, and improvements to real property facilities and maintains surveillance over construction contractors utilizing a professional knowledge of mechanical engineering and knowledge of other engineering and architecture disciplines to ensure overall compliance with contracted specifications, schedules, etc.
- Plans, programs, budgets, and executes required projects in support of assigned programs. Performs work in facilities operations and maintenance (O&M) functions. Provides consulting services and project coordination.
- Collects data and evaluates factors which affect the application of concepts, principles, theories, and methods required to observe, examine, measure, analyze, map, and describe physical and technical features and phenomena.
- Complies with health, safety, and environmental rules and procedures and performs work in a manner that enhances the safety of the work environment.
Qualifications
In order to qualify, you must meet the specialized experience requirements described in the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Qualification Standards for General Schedule Positions, Group Coverage Qualification Standard for Professional and Scientific Positions, Mechanical Engineering Series 0830.
BASIC REQUIREMENT OR INDIVIDUAL OCCUPATIONAL REQUIREMENT: Mechanical Engineering Series 0830
In addition to meeting the basic requirement above, to qualify for this position you must also meet the qualification requirements listed below:
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE FOR GS-07: Applicants must have at least one (1) year of specialized experience at the next lower grade GS-05, or equivalent in other pay systems. Examples of specialized experience includes professional knowledge of mechanical engineering concepts and principles as well as the ability to apply standard mechanical engineering practices, methods, and techniques to perform, following specific instructions, relatively routine projects or on a portion of a larger and more complex project. Knowledge of computer aided design and drafting (CADD) programs to perform routine design and drafting assignments. NOTE: You must submit a copy of official transcripts.
OR
EDUCATION GS-07: I have completed 1 year of graduate-level education or superior academic achievement. NOTE: You must submit copies of your transcripts.
OR
COMBINATION OF EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION GS-07: I have less than the full amount of specialized experience described in the job opportunity announcement; however, I have completed one year of graduate level education as described in the job opportunity announcement. Therefore, I have a combination of experience and education. NOTE: You must submit a copy of your transcripts.
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE FOR GS-09: Applicants must have at least one (1) year of specialized experience at the next lower grade GS-07, or equivalent in other pay systems. Examples of specialized experience includes professional knowledge of mechanical engineering concepts, principles, and practices and familiarity with other engineering disciplines and architecture to perform routine projects with complete responsibility, or portions of large and complex projects. Knowledge of state and local jurisdictions over the use of land and natural resources, the construction of facilities and
utilities, and the distribution of utilities services. Knowledge of the installation/command mission and organization.
OR
EDUCATION GS-09: I have completed 2 years of progressively higher-level graduate education leading to a master's degree or master's or equivalent graduate degree in a field which demonstrates the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to do the work of the position. NOTE: You must submit copies of your transcripts.
OR
COMBINATION OF EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION GS-09: I have less than the full amount of specialized experience described in the job opportunity announcement; however, I have completed some graduated-level education as described in the job opportunity announcement. Therefore, I have a combination of experience and education. NOTE: You must submit a copy of your transcripts.
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE FOR GS-11: Applicants must have at least one (1) year of specialized experience at the next lower grade GS-09, or equivalent in other pay systems. Examples of specialized experience includes professional knowledge of mechanical engineering concepts, principles, and practices applicable to a broad range of engineering, construction management, life cycle management, etc. and related assignments. Knowledge of design and construction practices and techniques in establishing design parameters and preparing project justifications and specifications. Knowledge of drafting techniques and conventions and drafting skills sufficient to convey design concepts and ideas and formulate working drawings. Knowledge of and familiarity with related fields of work such as architectural, electrical, mechanical, structural, environmental and civil engineering sufficient to ensure that areas of overlapping responsibilities receive proper design considerations.
OR
EDUCATION FOR GS-11: I have successfully completed a Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree or 3 full years of progressively higher-level graduate education leading to such a degree in a field which demonstrates the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to perform the work of the position. NOTE: You must submit copies of your transcripts.
OR
COMBINATION OF EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION FOR GS-11: I have less than the full amount of specialized experience required but I have more than 2 years of graduate level education with a major or subject area related to the position to be filled. Therefore, I have a combination of experience and education. NOTE: You must submit a copy of your transcripts.
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE FOR GS-12: Applicants must have at least one (1) year of specialized experience at the next lower grade GS-11, or equivalent in other pay systems. Examples of specialized experience includes professional knowledge of mechanical engineering concepts, principles, and practices applicable to a broad range of engineering, construction management, life cycle management, etc. and related assignments. Knowledge of design and construction practices and techniques in establishing design parameters and preparing project justifications and specifications. Knowledge of drafting techniques and conventions and drafting skills sufficient to convey design concepts and ideas and formulate working drawings. Knowledge of and familiarity with related fields of work such as architectural, electrical, mechanical, structural, environmental and civil engineering sufficient to ensure that areas of overlapping responsibilities receive proper design considerations.
FEDERAL TIME-IN-GRADE (TIG) REQUIREMENT FOR GENERAL SCHEDULE (GS) POSITIONS: Merit promotion applicants must meet applicable time-in-grade requirements to be considered eligible. One year at the GS-05 level is required to meet the time-in-grade requirements for the GS-07 level. One year at the GS-07 level is required to meet the time-in-grade requirements for the GS-09 level. One year at the GS-09 level is required to meet the time-in-grade requirements for the GS-11 level. One year at the GS-11 level is required to meet the time-in-grade requirements for the GS-12 level. TIG applies if you are in a current GS position or held a GS position within the previous 52 weeks. NOTE: Applicants applying as VEOA candidates who are current GS civil service employees or are prior GS civil service employees within the past 52 weeks must also meet time-in-grade requirements.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (KSAs) Continued in Education Section
PART-TIME OR UNPAID EXPERIENCE: Credit will be given for appropriate unpaid and or part-time work. You must clearly identify the duties and responsibilities in each position held and the total number of hours per week.
VOLUNTEER WORK EXPERIENCE: Refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service Programs (i.e., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student and social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge and skills that can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. Education KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (KSAs) GS 07/09/11: Your qualifications will be evaluated on the basis of your level of knowledge, skills, abilities and/or competencies in the following areas:
- Knowledge of basic principles of the classified titled or related field.
- Skill in communicating factual and procedural information clearly, orally and in writing.
- Ability to learn basic techniques of the classified title.
- Ability to analyze problems to identify significant factors, gather pertinent data, and recognize solutions.
- Ability to plan and organize work, and consult effectively with co-workers.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (KSAs) GS-12: Your qualifications will be evaluated on the basis of your level of knowledge, skills, abilities and/or competencies in the following areas:
- Professional knowledge of mechanical engineering concepts, principles, and practices and familiarity with architectural and other engineering disciplines.
- Knowledge of a broad range of engineering and construction standards, methods, practices, and techniques, materials, and equipment to determine compliance with federal, state, and local codes and regulations; of standard contracting regulations, practices, and procedures as it relates to facilities engineering; knowledge of health, safety, and environmental requirements as outlined in applicable standards, regulations, and/or technical orders; of environmental principles, practices, procedures, laws, regulations, and current legislative issues; of work classifications and the regulatory and statutory restrictions on the expenditures of appropriated and non-appropriated funds.
- Knowledge of automated data processing concepts, systems capabilities, and economic usage to effectively accomplish assigned functions; and knowledge of program planning and budgeting cycles, financial control and budget systems and management.
- Knowledge of aesthetic and functional design techniques and skill in preparing project documentation, to include preliminary drawings, sketches, and construction drawings; and technique / skill in drafting sufficient to convey design concepts and ideas and formulate working drawings.
- Ability to plan, conduct and record site/facilities surveys and inspection; to analyze, interpret, and apply results, rules, regulations, and procedures in a variety of situations and recommend timely and economical solutions.
- Ability to plan and organize work and coordinate with other engineering disciplines and architects; and communicate effectively both orally and in writing and maintain good working relationships.
IF USING EDUCATION TO QUALIFY: If position has a positive degree requirement or education forms the basis for qualifications, you MUST submit transcripts with the application. Official transcripts are not required at the time of application; however, if position has a positive degree requirement, qualifying based on education alone or in combination with experience, transcripts must be verified prior to appointment. An accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education must accredit education. Click here to check accreditation.
FOREIGN EDUCATION: Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the requirements. You must show proof the education credentials have been deemed to be at least equivalent to that gained in conventional U.S. education program. It is your responsibility to provide such evidence when applying.How you will be evaluated Your application package (resume, supporting documents, and responses to the questionnaire) will be used to determine your eligibility, qualifications, and quality ranking for this position. Please follow all instructions carefully. Errors or omissions may affect your rating or consideration for employment.
BASIS OF RATING:
Your application will be rated under the Cut Point procedures based on the extent to which the quality, depth, and complexity of your experience and education relate to the qualification requirements. Additional points are not added for Veteran's Preference; however, Veteran's Preference is considered where applicable.
Best Qualified Group: Candidates in this category possess exceptional skills and experience to exceed well above the minimum requirements
Fully Qualified Group: Candidates in this category possess good skills and experience above the minimum requirements.
Basically Qualified Group: Candidates in this category meet the minimum education and/or experience requirements.
The resume/documents you submit must support your responses to the online questionnaire. If your application contradicts or does not support your questionnaire responses, you will receive a rating of "not qualified" or "insufficient information" and you will not receive further consideration for this job.
For additional information on what to include in your resume, click here.
APPRAISALS/AWARDS: Hiring Managers use objective methods and consider previous performance appraisals and awards in the selection process. Current Federal Civilian employees should list any relevant performance related rating and/or awards in your resume.
Applicants who disqualify themselves will not be evaluated further. How to apply The complete Application Package must be submitted by 11:59 PM (ET) on 11/09/2026
To preview the Application Questionnaire, please click the following link: https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/13108405
To begin the process, click the Apply Online button to create an account or log in to your existing USAJOBS account. Follow the prompts to complete the application questionnaire. Please ensure you click the Submit My Application button at the end of the process.
To apply for this position, you must provide a complete Application Package which includes:
- Your Resume. If you submit more than one resume, only the most recent will be reviewed. The "most recent" is considered the resume with the latest timestamp.
- Resumes may not exceed two pages. The two-page resume ensures the most relevant experience is reviewed and considered, which is a common practice in both the public and private sectors. Resumes exceeding two pages will be removed from consideration. Additional information on how to complete or update your resume may be located here.
- For qualification determination your resume must contain hours worked per week and dates of employment (i.e., month/year to month/year or month/year to present). If your resume does not contain this information, your application may be marked as insufficient, and you will not receive consideration for this position. If you are a current Federal employee or previous Federal employee, provide your pay plan, series and grade, i.e. GS-0301-09. Current Federal Civilian Employees may list any relevant performance related rating (given within the last three years) and/or incentive awards in your resume.
- Do NOT include photographs, inappropriate material, inappropriate content, nor personal information such as age, gender, religion, social security number, etc., on your resume. If the resume you submit contains such information you will not be considered for this vacancy.
- Your name, first and last, MUST be included on your resume.
- A complete Application Questionnaire
- Additional Required Documents (see Required Documents section). Ensure all submitted documents contain your full name.
- Help recruiters find you. Make your resume and profile searchable, which means recruiters may contact you about possible jobs. Additional information may be located here.
PLEASE NOTE: It is the applicant's responsibility to verify that information entered and/or uploaded, (i.e., resume) is received, accurate, and submitted by the closing date. You may verify your documents have been processed with your application package successfully. You can access your USAJOBS account to do so by clicking here. Uploaded documents may take up to one hour to clear the virus scan.
Human Resources WILL NOT modify or change any answers submitted by an applicant. Other information Interagency Career Transition Assistance Program (ICTAP): For information on how to apply as an ICTAP eligible click here. To be well-qualified and exercise selection priority for this vacancy, displaced Federal employees must be rated well qualified or above for this position. You must submit a copy of the agency notice, your most recent performance rating, and your most recent SF-50 noting position, grade level, and duty location.
Employed Annuitants (Reemployed Annuitants): Applicants in receipt of an annuity based on civilian employment in the Federal Service are subject to the DoD Policy on The Employment of Annuitants. Click here for more information.
120-Day Register: This announcement may result in a 120-day register that may be used to fill like vacancies for 120 days after the closing date. Applicants may be referred for consideration as vacancies occur.
Military Spouse Preference (MSP) Eligible: MSP applicants, if determined best qualified, must be selected and placed at the highest grade for which they applied. You must include a completed copy of the DD Form 3145-4, Military Spouse PPP Self-Certification Checklist dated within 30 days along with the documents identified on the checklist to verify your eligibility for MSP. Click here to obtain/download a copy of the DD Form 3145-4, Military Spouse PPP Self-Certification Checklist.
Priority Placement Program (PPP) Applicant Eligible: PPP Applicants, if determined well qualified and selected, will be placed at the at the full performance level. You must include the applicable completed copy of the PPP Self-Certification Checklist dated within 30 days along with the documents identified on the checklist to verify your eligibility as a PPP Applicant. Click here to obtain/download a copy of the applicable PPP Self-Certification Checklist (DD3145-1 through DD3145-4, select the appropriate checklist for your claimed preference). To determine the applicable PPP Self-Certification Checklist required to substantiate the eligibilities you are claiming, refer to the AF Civilian Employment Eligibility Guide located in the Required Documents section of this vacancy announcement.
Direct Deposit: All federal employees are required to have direct deposit.
Disabled veteran leave is available to a Federal employee hired on/after 5 Nov 2016, who is a veteran with a service-connected disability rating of 30% or more. For more information, click here.
If you have questions regarding this announcement and have hearing or speech difficulties click here.