COMPUTER ENGINEER

As a Computer Engineer within the Air Force Civilian Service, you will be responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining computer systems and software applications that support mission-critical operations. Your primary duties include: System Design and Development: Analyze user requirements to design and implement computer hardware and software solutions. Develop system architectures, write code, and integrate components to ensure optimal performance and reliability. Testing and Validation: Conduct rigorous testing of computer systems and software to identify and resolve defects. Perform system integration testing, unit testing, and user acceptance testing to ensure functionality meets specifications. Maintenance and Support: Provide ongoing technical support for deployed systems, including troubleshooting hardware and software issues, performing system upgrades, and implementing patches or updates to enhance security and efficiency. Collaboration: Work closely with cross-functional teams, including engineers, project managers, and end-users, to define project scope, timelines, and deliverables. Participate in design reviews and contribute to technical documentation. Research and Innovation: Stay current with emerging technologies and industry trends to recommend improvements or new solutions. Evaluate tools, frameworks, and methodologies to enhance system capabilities and streamline processes. Compliance and Standards: Ensure all systems adhere to relevant engineering standards, security protocols, and regulatory requirements. Maintain accurate records of system configurations, changes, and performance metrics. This role involves both independent work and team collaboration, requiring strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail. You will contribute to projects that directly impact operational effectiveness and national security.

To qualify for this position, you must meet the following requirements: **Basic Requirement**: A bachelor's degree in engineering from an accredited program. Acceptable programs must either: (1) be accredited by ABET, or (2) include coursework in differential and integral calculus, plus advanced courses in five of seven engineering science areas: statics/dynamics, strength of materials, fluid mechanics/hydraulics, thermodynamics, electrical fields/circuits, nature/properties of materials, or other comparable areas (e.g., optics, heat transfer, soil mechanics, electronics). **Grade-Level Requirements**: - **GS-7**: Superior academic achievement at the baccalaureate level, demonstrated by one of the following: (a) class standing in the upper third of your graduating class, (b) a grade-point average of 3.0 or higher (rounded to one decimal place), or (c) election to a national scholastic honor society (freshman honor societies excluded). - **GS-9**: Completion of a master's or higher degree in engineering, or a bachelor's degree with evidence of knowledge, skills, and abilities substantially equivalent to those acquired through the specified coursework. **Additional Requirements**: - All educational requirements must be met by June 2026. - Submit a copy of your official transcript (degree audits not accepted). If qualifying based on class standing or honor society membership, provide appropriate documentation. - No prior professional experience is required for entry-level grades, but any relevant experience demonstrating technical competence is advantageous.

The Air Force Personnel Center manages civilian training programs, including the PALACE Acquire program, for the U.S. Air Force. It is responsible for force renewal and development, and international affairs administration.