Building the Future of Naval Warfare Systems
The Department of the Navy’s Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA), specifically within the Integrated Combat Systems Department at the Naval Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren Division (NSWCDD), is seeking dynamic professionals for the role of Cooperative Engagement Capability (CEC) Systems Engineer. These positions, located in Dahlgren, Virginia, play a pivotal part in advancing the nation’s maritime defense capabilities through innovation, system integration, and engineering excellence.
This opportunity is announced through a public notice flyer, meaning interested applicants must follow the application instructions provided by the agency. Resumes are not accepted directly through this notice, and selection may or may not occur from this announcement.
The Role and Core Responsibilities
The selected Systems Engineer will serve as a technical leader and problem solver within the Warfare Architecture and Engineering Division. The role involves conducting comprehensive systems engineering analyses, identifying and recommending warfare systems that meet critical capability requirements for the U.S. surface fleet.
Key responsibilities include:
- Leading systems engineering efforts for combat and warfare systems.
- Defining project scope, objectives, and system architectures.
- Engaging with multiple stakeholders on system design, documentation, and integration.
- Applying modern methodologies such as Agile Development, DevSecOps, Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE), and Data Analytics to streamline future system development.
- Coordinating across software, hardware, and architectural teams to ensure interoperability and performance of integrated combat systems.
- Preparing detailed technical reports, specifications, and design documentation.
Strategic Impact Areas
The Systems Engineer contributes to several mission-critical areas:
- Warfare Systems Development – Driving innovation and integration across naval combat systems.
- Engineering Analysis & Design – Applying rigorous analytical approaches to optimize design and operational performance.
- Digital Transformation – Leveraging MBSE, data analytics, and agile methodologies to modernize system lifecycles.
- Cross-Functional Collaboration – Working closely with architects, developers, and mission planners to ensure cohesive system delivery.
Ideal Candidate Profile
The Navy seeks professionals who demonstrate intellectual rigor, technical versatility, and an unwavering commitment to national security. The ideal candidate will bring experience in systems engineering, operations research, computer science, or mathematics, combined with a strong understanding of defense technologies and systems integration.
Applicants should be capable of:
- Managing complex engineering tasks independently.
- Analyzing and interpreting data to inform design and decision-making.
- Working effectively in interdisciplinary environments.
- Communicating technical concepts clearly to diverse audiences.
Qualification Requirements
It is an interdisciplinary position, open to candidates who qualify under one of the following series:
- 0801 – General Engineering
- 1515 – Operations Research
- 1520 – Mathematics
- 1550 – Computer Science
For ND-04 Pay Band:
Applicants must possess one year of specialized experience equivalent to the ND-03 (GS-09/11) level. This includes applying systems engineering principles to design, develop, and evaluate engineering projects, utilizing agile development, MBSE tools, and data analytics.
For ND-03 Pay Band:
Applicants must demonstrate one year of specialized experience equivalent to ND-02 (GS-05/08), involving foundational systems engineering assignments, problem-solving, and technical analysis in support of engineering tasks.
Education Requirements:
Applicants must meet OPM qualification standards for their respective occupational series. Acceptable degrees include Engineering (ABET-accredited), Operations Research, Mathematics, or Computer Science, as outlined by the Office of Personnel Management. Equivalent combinations of education and experience are also considered.
Employment Details
- Location: Dahlgren, Virginia
- Work Schedule: Full-time, Permanent
- Pay Bands: ND-03 to ND-04
- Salary Range: $69,923 – $156,755 per year (depending on qualifications and pay band)
- Telework: Eligible for ad-hoc/situational telework
- Travel: Occasional (domestic and overseas assignments possible)
- Security Clearance: Secret (required)
- Promotion Potential: ND-04
- Relocation: Not reimbursed
Conditions of Employment
Applicants must be U.S. citizens and comply with federal employment requirements, including E-Verify verification, Selective Service registration (for males born after 12/31/1959), and security clearance acquisition. This role is also covered under the Defense Acquisition Workforce Improvement Act (DAWIA), requiring certification in the assigned acquisition functional area.
Additional Information
This position falls under the Warfare Centers Personnel Demonstration Project and utilizes the Science and Technology Reinvention Laboratories (STRL) Direct Hire Authority. While veterans’ preference does not apply under this specific authority, veterans are encouraged to apply.
The Department of Defense (DoD) currently maintains a limited hiring freeze, meaning employment offers will be contingent upon exemption approval.
Applicants should note that resumes must be concise (two pages maximum), clear, and demonstrate experience relevant to the position. Illegible or incomplete submissions will not be considered.
Application Process
Interested candidates must follow the instructions detailed in the official announcement under the “How to Apply” section on the Department of the Navy’s careers page. Applications submitted outside the designated process will not be accepted.
Commitment to Excellence
Candidates joining this mission-driven organization will contribute directly to advancing the U.S. Navy’s surface fleet capabilities, designing and engineering systems that protect national interests and enhance maritime dominance.
The Department seeks professionals dedicated to innovation, integrity, and service to the nation, helping shape the next generation of naval warfare technology.