maxsonic
Well-Known Member
Nothin' from nothin', but...,
Even with San Diego locality pay that is low for somebody with structural analysis experience. Especially if it includes composites.
Bert is spot on, and I agree 100%...we do have a retention challenge that we're working hard to fix, by getting Leadership authorization for more GS-13 Level Engineering promotional opportunities. It's difficult to retain NAVAIR's best and brightest civilian aerospace engineers on GS-12 pay...regardless of location or locality pay. Our retention challenge for highly specialized and experienced aerospace engineers is very similar to retaining active duty JO pilots or highly experienced special operators...and how do we keep them on Active Duty? Retention Incentives! It's something I've been working with Senior Leadership, and hope to get in place this year...otherwise, we lose our highly trained talent to higher paying defense contractors and consultants. Locally, I compete with Northrop Grumman, General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, and United Technologies Corp for engineering talent. On the bright side, the crew I work with are highly dedicated to the F/A-18A-D, F/A-18E/F & EA-18G sustainment mission. Plus, we get to work at North Island in Coronado...how cool is that?
Is there a Virginia Beach counterpart for this gig?
Not so much. We do have a few limited engineering positions located on-site at the FRC "Level II" (Intermediate Maintenance) Sites (i.e Oceana, Whidbey, Lemoore, Miramar), however, as indicated by other AWs above, the vast majority are located at the FRC Level 3 (Depot Maintenance) Sites (Cherry Point, JAX, North Island, Atsugi). By far, most engineering opportunities supporting the F/A-18 and EA-18G community are located at NAVAIR PAX, FRCSW NI, FRCSE JAX, and FRCWP Atsugi, JA.
Appreciate the dialog...if you know of any graduating, "transitioning veteran, " or experienced Aero / Mechanical engineers who might be interested, please send me a PM...I'll reply with my navy.mil email address for follow up.
MAX
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