About the opportunity
The National Security Agency (NSA) is seeking highly motivated Engineering Specialists/Technicians to help build, install, modify, repair, fabricate prototype parts/mechanisms, and test electronic and mechanical equipment. Professionals in this role use their skills to create systems and tools that enhance intelligence operations, advising, administering, and performing scientific projects such as planning, designing, and constructing specialized equipment. The NSA offers multiple areas of focus for technical trades, supporting critical national security missions while working in a collaborative and dynamic environment.
Salary and benefits
- Comprehensive benefits package
- Salary ranging from $35,048 to $158,322 per year based on education, experience, work level, and location
- Training provided based on the selectee's needs and experience
Who can apply?
- Entry/Developmental: High school diploma or GED plus applicable training and no experience, or high school diploma or GED plus 1 year of relevant experience
- Full Performance: High school diploma or GED plus applicable training and 4 years of relevant experience, an Associate's degree plus 2 years of relevant experience, or applicable training plus 2 years of relevant experience
- Senior: High school diploma or GED plus applicable training and 6 years of relevant experience, an Associate's degree plus 4 years of relevant experience, a Bachelor's degree plus 2 years of relevant experience, or applicable training plus 4 years of relevant experience
- Relevant experience includes development, fabrication, manufacturing, testing, or site installation of electrical, electronic, mechanical, or software products/systems, assembling or modifying prototype products, working as an electrician, repairing electronics, maintaining computer systems, shop work, microelectronics, and more
- Completion of an Apprenticeship Program counts for 3 years of experience, a Journeyman License counts for 6 years, and a Master Tradesman License counts for 9 years
- Commercial industry certifications in relevant trades count for 1 to 2 years of experience depending on certification
- Must be medically clearable for worldwide travel
Required documents
- Fully populated resume using the resume tool detailing all relevant skills, experience, and education
- Veterans' preference documentation if claiming preference under Section 2108 of Title 5 U.S.C.
When to apply
- Applications open on September 1, 2026
- Application closing date is September 16, 2026 at 23:59:59 UTC
How to apply
- Visit the official application link at USAJOBS or Intelligence Careers
- Fully populate all sections of the resume tool with all relevant skills, experience, and education
- Submit the application before the closing date of September 16, 2026
Additional information
- All positions in the NSA are in the Excepted Services under 10 United States Code (USC) 1601 appointment authority.
- Work schedule is full-time, Monday through Friday, with a basic 8-hour/day requirement between 6:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. (flexible).
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Technicians and trades professionals with experience in electrical, electronic, or mechanical systems.
- Candidates ranging from entry-level applicants with a high school diploma to senior degree holders.
- Individuals possessing relevant commercial certifications, apprenticeships, or journeyman licenses.
What should you think carefully about?
- Applicants must be medically clearable for worldwide travel.
- The position falls under the Excepted Service rather than standard competitive civil service.
- Relocation to Fort Meade, Maryland, or proximity to the on-site work location is required.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This opportunity provides a stable pathway to build a long-term technical career supporting national security intelligence operations with structured salary growth.
Our take
Skilled trades specialists and engineering technicians looking for mission-driven government work should apply, whereas those averse to security clearances or worldwide travel requirements may not find it suitable.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
Official-source verifiedSource: USAJOBS
