Developmental Engineer

Developmental Engineer, GG-0801-07 target GG-12.

This is an open-continuous announcement, meaning we accept applications on an ongoing basis and review them as project needs and opportunities arise.

Description:
Join the National Space Intelligence Center as a Developmental Engineer, providing professional and scientific knowledge in performance of work requiring the application of engineering, mathematics, statistical analysis, modeling/simulation and/or other scientific principles, methods, techniques.

This position starts at entry level, GG-07, with developmental promotion opportunities full performance at GG-12.

Responsibilities:

• Research and analyze emerging technologies in space and cyber domains, utilizing scientific literature, reports, and industry resources.
• Develop conceptual models and simulations to evaluate the performance and effectiveness of new technologies.
• Prepare technical reports, presentations, and briefings to communicate research findings.
• Collaborate with engineers, scientists, and analysts on research projects.
• Learn and stay current on advancements in relevant engineering and technology fields.
• Document and present research methodologies, findings, and conclusions.
• Identify research gaps and opportunities for future investigation.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Aerospace, Mechanical, Electrical, Computer, or related field).
• Strong Analytical Skills: Ability to dissect complex data, identify meaningful patterns, and challenge assumptions to uncover hidden insights.
• Critical Thinking & Problem-Solving: Excellent problem-solving skills with the ability to synthesize information from multiple sources.
• Effective Communication: Clearly convey findings and recommendations to stakeholders, leveraging data visualization tools.
• Adaptability & Proactive Approach: Willingness to learn new techniques and proactively seek out new data sources.
• Integrity & Confidentiality: Commitment to unbiased analysis, ethical guidelines, and maintaining confidentiality.
• Collaboration & Independence: Ability to work both independently and collaboratively to achieve team goals.

NSIC Engineers are hired as “developmental” employees, which means we’ll train a large portion of the skills you need to be successful!

It also means you’ll start at the entry level grade and receive annual promotions to the next salary as you become more skilled and meet performance requirements.

Think of our jobs as having levels, like rungs on a ladder. The higher the number, the more responsibility and experience you're expected to have, and generally, the higher the pay.

If you have been here 1 year, your grade is GG-0132-07 and your salary is $81,901.
If you have been here 2 years, your grade is GG-0132-09 and your salary is $94,909.
If you have been here 3 years, your grade is GG-0132-11 and your salary is $105,262.
If you have been here 4 years, your grade is GG-0132-12 and your salary is $117,753.

Government Job Series Explained:

Basically, a job series is just a way for the government to classify and organize jobs.

• For example:
  • 0801 – General Engineer Category
  • 0854 – Computer Engineer Category
  • 0855 – Electrical Engineer Category
  • 0861 – Aerospace Engineer Category

Don't get too hung up on the numbers. Focus on the specific skills and responsibilities outlined in the job description.

Just like different concentrations within a major, the numbers narrow down the specific type of work. So, even though two jobs are in the same series, the specific tasks might be different… likewise, even if you’re hired as a 0855 Electrical Engineer, you may still have involvement in aerospace engineering concepts.

Requirements:
1. Must be a U.S Citizen.
2. Must be able to obtain and maintain a Top Secret/SCI clearance.
3. May be required to travel by military/commercial aircraft for performing temporary work assignments
4. May be required to work overtime on an unscheduled or emergency basis.
5. Required to handle and safeguard sensitive and/or classified information.

Why Work at NSIC?

• Meaningful Impact: Directly contribute to national security decisions, helping to protect lives and shape future United States Space Force systems.
• Generous Benefits:
  • Strong Salary Progression: Annual increases based on performance, with potential for cash awards.
  • Affordable Healthcare: Government covers 75% of premiums, plus FSA option.
  • Excellent Retirement: Three-tiered system including automatic and matched TSP contributions.
  • Abundant Time Off: Accrue generous annual and sick leave, plus paid parental leave and 11 federal holidays.
• Work-Life Balance: Flexible work schedules (CWS, MAXFLEX) and options for paid fitness time ("PT").
• Continuous Growth: Extensive training opportunities and tuition assistance for advanced degrees (including free programs).