Precision Machinist/Sheet Metal Fabricator - Engineering Specialist/Technician - Entry to Experienced Level (Maryland)

ResponsibilitiesDo you have vocational/technical training in Technical Trades, Electronics, Computers, Drafting, or Engineering? Do you enjoy building, installing, modifying, repairing, fabricating prototyping parts/mechanisms, and/or testing electronic equipment?

The National Security Agency (NSA) is seeking skilled professionals with expertise in various fabrication techniques to join our dynamic team. We are looking for individuals who can set up and operate advanced machinery to produce high-quality, unique products.

Qualified candidates will have experience in one or more of the following areas:

• Precision Machining: Utilizing machinery such as Computer Numerically Controls (CNC) lathes, mills, EDMs, and waterjet cutters to create complex parts and fixtures.
• Precision Sheet Metal Fabrication: Operating a variety of sheet metal machinery and tooling, such as sheet metal brakes, laser punch presses, and advanced forming techniques, to achieve high dimensional accuracy.
• Additive Manufacturing: Proficiency with 3D printing using various industry materials, injection molding, and post-processing techniques.
• Finishing: Skilled in a variety of material finishing methods, including automotive/industrial painting, finishing tools, and electroplating.
• Silicone Molding and Casting: Proficiency in silicone molding and casting techniques.
• Composite Manufacturing: Skills in mold design and fabrication, part layup/lamination, and adhesive bonding.
• Multi-Substrates: Work with a variety of industry materials, including textiles, to fabricate, build, and assemble distinct products using related machinery and equipment.

This role offers:

• The opportunity to work with cutting-edge technology and innovative fabrication techniques.
• A collaborative and challenging environment where your specialized skills will be valued and expanded.
• The chance to contribute to the development of one-of-a-kind products that support national security.

Candidates with expertise in multiple tradecraft areas are highly desirable.

When submitting your application, please ensure that you fully populate all sections of the resume tool with all relevant skills, experience, and education, as the resume entered into the tool will be the primary resume used to evaluate your application. Please do NOT populate the resume tool with "see resume."

Job SummaryAs an Engineering and Physical Science professional, you will use your skills to create the systems and tools that will be used to enhance the operation of intelligence. You will advise, administer and perform scientific projects, such as planning, designing, and constructing specialized equipment, and ensuring adherence to sound engineering and scientific standards and principles. The NSA offers multiple areas of focus for facilities engineers, including computer, architectural, electrical, mechanical, and structural. In addition, we are seeking skills that include computer design, microelectronics, radio frequency design, and systems engineering. Apply your science and engineering skills to protect the nation.

QualificationsThe qualifications listed are the minimum acceptable to be considered for the position.

Degree must be in an Engineering or an Engineering Technology related field. If qualifying with a high school diploma/GED, must have applicable Vocational/Technical or Military training (for example, Electronics, Computers, Drafting, Engineering, Manufacturing, or Networking).

Relevant experience must include one or more of the following: providing engineering technical support for the development, fabrication, testing, or site installation of electrical, electronic, mechanical, or software products/systems; assisting in assembling, modifying, debugging, or testing prototype products; working as an electrician or with electronic or appliance repair. Relevant experience may also include formal or informal experience working with computers, robotics, electronics, or manufacturing, electronic shop experience, or experience with schematic diagrams, environmental testing, and quality assurance testing.

Commercial industry certifications, such as the MASE (Master Automotive Service Excellence), would count for two years of experience.

ENTRY/DEVELOPMENTALEntry is with a high school diploma or GED, plus applicable training, and no experience.

Applicable training includes Vocational/Technical or Military training (for example, Electronics, Computers, Drafting, Engineering, Manufacturing, or Networking).

FULL PERFORMANCEEntry is with a high school diploma or GED, plus applicable training, plus 4 years of relevant experience, or an Associate's degree plus 2 years of relevant experience.

SENIOREntry is with a high school diploma or GED, plus applicable training, plus 6 years of relevant experience, or an Associate's degree plus 4 years of relevant experience, or a Bachelor's degree plus 2 years of relevant experience.

CompetenciesThe ideal candidate has experience from a vocational/trade school or apprenticeship and a desire for continual learning along with excellent problem-solving, analytic and interpersonal skills, a precision and attention to detail, and a mechanical aptitude to use a variety of industry tools and machinery.

The ideal candidate will have experience in precision sheet metal fabrication with knowledge in bending, forming and shaping metal sheets or experience in precision machining, with knowledge in different material and hardware characteristics.

The ideal candidate will also be:

• Innovative.
• Well-organized.
• Able to handle and prioritize multiple assignments.
• Able to accomplish assignments with little direct supervision.
• Able to communicate effectively both orally and written.
• Able to lift 50 pounds.
• Medically clearable for worldwide travel.
• Able to work effectively across several different functional areas in a collaborative environment.

Knowledge, skills, and experience in one or more of the following is desired:

• Perform basic mathematics functions such as Algebra, Trigonometry, Geometry.
• Understand decimals/fractions and can read to .001" using measuring tools (ex. Micrometers, Dial calipers).
• Ability to read and understand engineering blueprints/drawings.
• Analyze 3D models and assemblies using CAD/CAM Operations.
• Mechanical and Technical aptitude using a variety of industry tools and machines to include:
• Punch/Laser Press.
• Sheet Metal Press Brake.
• Waterjet cutting machines.
• Machine specific software.
• Band saws, Grinders, Sanders, Drill press, Hand tools (ex. Hammers, Punches, Files, Taps and Dies).
• Manual Mills and Lathes.
• 3, 4 & 5 Axis CNC Mills.
• Wire and RAM EDMs.
• Analyze problems to determine technical solutions.
• Devise procedures to solve the technical problems.
• Create and maintain documentation on technical information.
• Ability to communicate and work well with others or teams.
• Willingness to learn.

Pay, Benefits, & Work SchedulePay: Salary offers are based on candidates' education level and years of experience relevant to the position and also take into account information provided by the hiring manager/organization regarding the work level for the position.

Salary Range: $57,736 - $158,322 (Entry/Developmental, Full Performance, Senior)Salary range varies by location, work level, and relevant experience to the position.

Training will be provided based on the selectee's needs and experience.

Benefits: NSA offers a comprehensive benefits package.

Work Schedule: This is a full-time position, Monday - Friday, with basic 8hr/day work requirement between 6:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. (flexible).

DCIPS Trial Period:If selected for this position, you will be required to serve a two-year DCIPS trial period, unless you are a veterans' preference-eligible employee, in which case you are required to serve a one-year trial period. This trial period runs concurrently with your commitment to the position, if applicable. Before finalizing your appointment at the conclusion of your trial period, NSA will determine whether your continued employment advances the public interest. This decision will be based on factors such as your performance and conduct; the Agency's needs and interests; whether your continued employment would advance the Agency's organizational goals; and whether your continued employment would advance the efficiency of the Federal service.

Upon completion of your trial period, your employment will be terminated unless you receive certification, in writing, that your continued employment advances the public interest.

If you do not receive certification for continued employment, you should receive written notice prior to the end of your trial period that your employment will be terminated and the effective date of such termination.

How to applyApply soonest, as job postings can close earlier than stated end dates due to changes in requirements. It is important to review and note the minimum qualifications, as only those applicants who meet the required qualifications will be contacted to continue the employment process. Please populate the resume tool to showcase any relevant work experience and education related to the position and answer any applicable screening questions. Information collected will be used to determine eligibility, and failure to provide accurate information may result in disqualification for this position.

A confirmation email will be sent after submission of the first application and also after any future updates to submitted applications. Due to time sensitive communications regarding applications, please ensure your spam filters are configured to accept email from .... For job vacancies that include stated testing requirements, also include the following: @uwe.nsa.gov, @nsa.gov, and @pearson.com

U.S. Citizenship is required for all applicants. NSA is an equal opportunity employer and abides by applicable employment laws and regulations. All applicants and employees are subject to random drug testing in accordance with Executive Order 12564. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a security background investigation and polygraph. NSA is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified applicants with disabilities during the application and hiring process.

The following four narrative questions provide an opportunity for you to highlight your dedication to public service for the hiring manager and agency leadership (or designee(s)). While your responses are not required and will not be scored, we encourage you to thoughtfully address each question. Please provide a response of 200 words or less to each question. You will be asked to certify that you are using your own words and did not use a consultant or artificial intelligence (AI) such as a large language model (LLM) like ChatGPT or Copilot. (Please attach in application)

1. How has your commitment to the Constitution and the founding principles of the United States inspired you to pursue this role within the Federal government? Provide a concrete example from professional, academic, or personal experience.

2. In this role, how would you use your skills and experience to improve government efficiency and effectiveness? Provide specific examples where you improved processes, reduced costs, or improved outcomes.

3. How would you help advance the President's Executive Orders and policy priorities in this role? Identify one or two relevant Executive Orders or policy initiatives that are significant to you, and explain how you would help implement them if hired.

4. How has a strong work ethic contributed to your professional, academic or personal achievements? Provide one or two specific examples, and explain how those qualities would enable you to serve effectively in this position.

DCIPS DisclaimerVETERANS AND TRANSITIONING SERVICE MEMBERS

Thank you for your service! The National Security Agency (NSA) is part of the Defense Civilian Intelligence Personnel System (DCIPS). All positions at NSA are in the Excepted Service under Title 10, United States Codes (U.S.C.), Section 1601 appointment authority.

Veterans' PreferenceIn accordance with the procedures provided in DoD Instruction 1400.25, Volume 2005, "DoD Civilian Personnel Management System: Defense Civilian Intelligence Personnel System Employment and Placement," NSA applies veterans' preference, as defined by Section 2108 of Title 5, U.S.C., to eligible candidates. If you are claiming veterans' preference, you are required to provide acceptable documentation of your preference eligibility upon application.

Acceptable documentation includes:

• DD-214: "Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty," which shows dates of service and discharge under honorable conditions (Copy 4); OR

• Certification of Service:A written document on letterhead from the appropriate branch of the armed forces that certifies the service member is expected to be discharged or released from active duty service in the armed forces under honorable conditions not later than 120 days after the date the certification is signed. The certification should include the military service dates, including the expected discharge or release date; AND

• Standard Form 15 (SF-15)Application for 10-point Veteran Preference ( ).

If you are claiming a service-connected disability of 30 percent or more, the documentation you provide must specifically demonstrate this level of disability; AND

• VA Letter of Disability (for 10pt and Sole Survivorship rating)

You may obtain a letter from the Department of Veterans Affairs reflecting your level of disability for preference eligibility by visiting a VA Regional Office, contacting a VA call center, or online ( ).

Failure to provide sufficient documentation of veterans' preference eligibility may preclude NSA from identifying you as a preference eligible candidate during the hiring selection process.