Mechanical Engineering
Performs professional mechanical engineering work in design, analysis, and testing of mechanical systems and equipment.
💰GS-0830 Salary Information
2025 Base Pay (before locality adjustment)
| Grade | Step 1 | Step 2 | Step 3 | Step 4 | Step 5 | Step 6 | Step 7 | Step 8 | Step 9 | Step 10 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GS-5 | $34,454 | $35,603 | $36,752 | $37,901 | $39,050 | $40,199 | $41,348 | $42,497 | $43,646 | $44,786 |
| GS-7 | $42,679 | $44,102 | $45,525 | $46,948 | $48,371 | $49,794 | $51,217 | $52,640 | $54,063 | $55,486 |
| GS-9 | $52,205 | $53,945 | $55,685 | $57,425 | $59,165 | $60,905 | $62,645 | $64,385 | $66,125 | $67,865 |
| GS-11 | $63,163 | $65,268 | $67,373 | $69,478 | $71,583 | $73,688 | $75,793 | $77,898 | $80,003 | $82,108 |
| GS-12 | $75,706 | $78,229 | $80,752 | $83,275 | $85,798 | $88,321 | $90,844 | $93,367 | $95,890 | $98,422 |
| GS-13 | $90,025 | $93,026 | $96,027 | $99,028 | $102,029 | $105,030 | $108,031 | $111,032 | $114,033 | $117,034 |
| GS-14 | $106,382 | $109,928 | $113,474 | $117,020 | $120,566 | $124,112 | $127,658 | $131,204 | $134,750 | $138,296 |
| GS-15 | $125,133 | $129,304 | $133,475 | $137,646 | $141,817 | $145,988 | $150,159 | $154,330 | $158,501 | $162,672 |
Note: These are 2025 base pay rates. Most federal employees receive locality pay adjustments of 15-40%+ depending on location.
Qualification Requirements
Official OPM qualification standards for GS-0830
Mechanical Engineering Basic Requirements
Uses Professional Engineering Basic Requirements (GS-800 Series)
Option A - Degree: Engineering degree from ABET-accredited program in mechanical engineering or related field (aerospace, manufacturing, materials engineering).
Option B - Combination: College-level education plus technical experience demonstrating thorough knowledge of mechanical engineering sciences including thermodynamics, mechanics, materials science.
Professional Registration: Registration as Professional Engineer (PE) is qualifying.
🎖️Tips for Veterans
- ✓Translate military experience: Map duties to civilian terminology.
- ✓Highlight training: Include courses and certifications.
- ✓Veterans preference: Claim your 5 or 10-point preference.
- ⚠️Note: Degree required for this series.
📝How to Qualify for GS-0830
Step-by-step guide to landing a federal mechanical engineering position
- 1
Review Qualification Requirements
Read the OPM qualification standards above to understand the education and experience requirements for your target grade level.
- 2
Determine Your Grade Level
Match your years of experience and education to the appropriate GS grade. Generally: GS-5 (entry), GS-7/9 (junior), GS-11/12 (journey), GS-13+ (senior).
- 3
Gather Documentation
Collect your DD-214, SF-50 (if applicable), transcripts, certifications, and any training records that demonstrate your qualifications.
- 4
Build Your Federal Resume
Create a detailed federal resume (2-5 pages) that addresses every qualification requirement. Include hours worked per week, supervisor contact info, and specific accomplishments.
- 5
Apply on USAJOBS
Search for open positions, carefully answer all assessment questions, and submit your application before the closing date.
🎖️Military to Federal Crosswalk
Military jobs that transition to GS-0830
Engineer Officer
Engineer Officers in the Army are responsible for planning and executing engineering projects, which closely aligns with mechanical engineering tasks in the GS-0830 series.
Utilities Officer
Utilities Officers manage the operation and maintenance of mechanical systems, which provides relevant experience for mechanical engineering roles.
Tactical Aircraft Maintenance
Mechanical engineering positions for those with extensive aircraft propulsion and structural systems experience.
💡 Tip:Your unique military experience may qualify you even if your MOS isn't listed.
📋Typical Duties
- •Design mechanical systems and equipment
- •Perform engineering analysis and calculations
- •Develop specifications and drawings
- •Conduct testing and evaluation
- •Troubleshoot mechanical problems
- •Manage engineering projects
🎯Key Competencies
Skill in designing mechanical systems and components.
Knowledge of heat transfer and thermal system design.
Understanding of fluid dynamics and hydraulic systems.
Knowledge of material properties and selection.
Understanding of manufacturing methods and equipment.
Proficiency in computer-aided design and manufacturing tools.
Ability to test and analyze mechanical system performance.
Skill in managing engineering projects and resources.
🔑Resume Keywords
💡 Use these phrases to help ATS systems and human recruiters find your qualifications.
Quick Links
Grade Levels
❓Frequently Asked Questions about GS-0830
What is a federal Mechanical Engineer?
GS-0830 Mechanical Engineers design, analyze, and test mechanical systems and equipment: HVAC, propulsion, weapons systems, manufacturing equipment, and facility systems. They work at Navy shipyards, Air Force depots, NASA, DOE, and agencies requiring mechanical system expertise.
How much does a federal Mechanical Engineer make?
GS-0830 positions range from GS-5 ($34,454) at entry to GS-15 ($125,133-$162,672) for senior engineers and technical directors. Journeyman positions are GS-11/12 ($63,163-$98,422). Project leads and supervisors reach GS-13/14. Add locality pay of 15-40%.
What are the requirements for GS-0830 positions?
A professional mechanical engineering degree (ABET-accredited) is mandatory—this is a positive education requirement. PE licensure preferred for senior positions. Experience in thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, HVAC, or specific mechanical systems needed for higher grades.
Can military experience substitute for education in GS-0830?
The engineering degree is mandatory, but military mechanical engineering experience is highly valued. Navy nuclear, submarine, and shipyard engineers, Air Force depot engineers, and Army mechanical specialists with degrees transition directly. Your systems experience is invaluable.
What is the career progression for Mechanical Engineers?
Entry at GS-5/7, journeyman at GS-11/12, senior engineers at GS-13, and technical directors at GS-14/15. PE licensure and specialized expertise accelerate advancement. Navy shipyards, Air Force depots, NASA, and DOE offer strong mechanical engineering career paths.
How do I apply for GS-0830 jobs on USAJOBS?
Search USAJOBS for 'Mechanical Engineer.' Navy shipyards, Air Force depots, NASA, and DOE are major employers. Highlight your ABET degree, PE license if held, and specific systems experience (HVAC, propulsion, weapons). Veterans with engineering backgrounds are highly valued.
Ready to Apply for GS-0830?
Create a tailored federal resume that meets OPM standards.