Job Description
The Central Intelligence Agency is looking for a Utility Engineer to take full-scope responsibility for industrial utility systems and infrastructure at Agency data centers around the world.
You will work with heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, three-phase power distribution grids (120/208/220/380/460), emergency diesel generators, automatic transfer switches, transformers, uninterruptible power supplies, automatic voltage regulators, and plumbing systems.
This role involves the full project life cycle: planning, reviewing, executing, and documenting installations of utility systems and supporting infrastructure on both large and small scales.
You will also repair, upgrade, modify, configure, and maintain existing systems to ensure high availability and reliability. Utility Engineers are expected to broaden their skills across multiple disciplines—HVAC, electrical, emergency power, and diesel technology—while staying proficient in their primary trade.
The position requires a commitment to global service, with overseas temporary travel up to 50% of the time. Some assignments may be in difficult or harsh environments. Most Utility Engineers live abroad at some point in their careers.
Travel benefits and allowances positively impact overall compensation.
Salary & Compensation
Salary / Pay Package: $75,332 - $133,142 per year.
Qualification
To qualify for the Utility Engineer position at the CIA.. You need an associate's degree from an accredited university or vocational/trade school plus three years of relevant experience in fields like Applied Science for Electrical Technology.. HVAC.. Electrical/Electrician Trades.. Plumbing.. Or Diesel/Diesel Power Generator Technology. Alternatively, five years of equivalent civilian or military trades experience is accepted. A minimum 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale is required. A bachelor's degree in a STEM discipline is desired.
- U.S. citizenship and at least 18 years old (dual-national U.S. citizens are eligible).
- Ability to meet CIA minimum requirements, including a background investigation.
- Excellent communication skills.
- Ability to lift up to 75 pounds when supporting installations or special requirements.
- Ability to climb ladders, stoop, bend, and reach for extended periods.
- Dynamic and flexible professional approach with a strong desire to learn.
- Accountability for actions and ability to work independently or as part of a team.
- Desired: Journeyman license or equivalent certification in Electrical, HVAC, Plumbing, Diesel, or Diesel Power Generator Technology.
- Desired: OSHA certification.
- Must be physically in the U.S. or its territories when submitting resume via MyLINK.
Role Responsibilities
Oversee industrial utility systems and infrastructure at Agency data centers worldwide.
- Manage HVAC, three-phase power distribution, emergency diesel generators, ATS, transformers, UPS, AVR, and plumbing systems.
- Participate in full project life cycle: plan, review, execute, and document installations.
- Repair, upgrade, modify, configure, and maintain existing utility systems for high availability and reliability.
- Broaden skills across multiple disciplines (HVAC, electrical, emergency power, diesel) while staying proficient in primary trade.
- Serve globally with overseas temporary travel up to 50% of the time; some assignments in challenging environments.
- Live abroad at some point in career; receive travel benefits and allowances.
How to Apply
Visit the CIA careers website at cia.gov/careers to read more about this position and express interest in up to four jobs.
- After expressing interest, you will be directed to MyLINK, where you can submit your resume, job rankings, and basic information.
- A CIA recruiter may contact you for further discussion if your qualifications meet their needs.
- For additional details, refer to the MyLINK FAQs on the CIA website.
- Ensure you are physically in the U.S. or its territories when submitting your resume via MyLINK.
Additional Information
This position is open from June 1, 2026, to September 30, 2026.
- You must be willing to move to the Washington, DC area.
- Successful completion of a thorough medical and psychological exam, polygraph interview, and complete background investigation is required.
- Selective Service registration is required if applicable.
- Education must be from an accredited institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
- Candidates should be committed to improving federal government efficiency and upholding the Constitution.
- Hiring decisions are based on qualifications, not on race, sex, color, religion, or national origin.
About Company
The Central Intelligence Agency is the premier intelligence agency of the United States government, responsible for gathering and analyzing national security information. CIA officers work worldwide to protect American interests and advance U.S. Foreign policy objectives. This Utility Engineer role supports the Agency's critical infrastructure, ensuring data centers operate reliably. The CIA offers a unique career path with opportunities for global travel and professional growth in a public service environment.
FAQs
What does a Utility Engineer do at the CIA?
Utility Engineers oversee industrial utility systems like HVAC, power distribution, and plumbing at CIA data centers worldwide, ensuring high availability and reliability.
Where is the CIA Utility Engineer job located?
The position is based in Washington, DC, with significant overseas travel and potential assignments abroad.
What are the minimum qualifications for the CIA Utility Engineer role?
An associate's degree plus three years of relevant experience, or five years of equivalent trades experience, with a minimum 3.0 GPA. U.S. citizenship and ability to pass a background investigation are required.
What is the salary range for the Utility Engineer position at the CIA?
The salary range is $75,332 to $133,142 per year, depending on qualifications and grade (GS-9 to GS-12).
How do I apply for the CIA Utility Engineer job?
Express interest on cia.gov/careers, then submit your resume and details via MyLINK. A recruiter may contact you if your qualifications match.
What is the application deadline for the CIA Utility Engineer position?
The application deadline is September 30, 2026.
What certifications are desired for the CIA Utility Engineer role?
A Journeyman license in Electrical, HVAC, Plumbing, or Diesel Technology, and OSHA certification are desired.
What are the physical requirements for the CIA Utility Engineer job?
Ability to lift up to 75 pounds, climb ladders, stoop, bend, and reach for extended periods.