Physical Scientist

Summary

The Department of Commerce ranked top 5 in the 2023 Best Places to Work in the Federal Government amongst large agencies for the 12th year in a row! NIST works with industry and science to advance innovation and improve quality of life. We're looking for a Physical Scientist to join our team! This notice is issued under direct-hire authority to recruit new talent to occupations for which NIST has a severe shortage of candidates.

Duties

In this role, you will: Plan and carry out difficult and complex assignments in a scientific, engineering, or mathematics discipline with limited supervision. Develop new methods, approaches, and procedures usually in cooperation with coworkers or advisors. Work with peers and others to develop resolutions to complex or challenging issues and provide recommendations for improvements in order to meet program objectives, particularly in the field of medical applications of radiation. Completed work is expected to have a sound overall approach and effectively meet stated requirements. Work impacts the technical planning, completion, and direction of major scientific, mathematical, engineering, or information technology projects.

Qualifications

BASIC REQUIREMENTS: A. Degree: physical science, engineering, or mathematics that included 24 semester hours in physical science and/or related engineering science such as mechanics, dynamics, properties of materials, and electronics. OR B. Combination of education and experience -- education equivalent to one of the majors shown in A above that included at least 24 semester hours in physical science and/or related engineering science, plus appropriate experience or additional education. In addition to the basic requirements: Applicants must also have 1 year (52 weeks) of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-9 (ZP-II at NIST) level. Specialized Experience is defined as experience in at least two of the following areas: statistical analysis of radioactivity measurements, sample weighing using analytical- or microbalances, radiochemistry techniques, liquid scintillation counting, computer simulation of radiation transport, radioactivity measurement. OR Master's or equivalent graduate degree OR A combination of graduate education and specialized experience as defined in the additional requirements Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done. We will credit all qualifying volunteer experience in your application. The qualification requirements in this vacancy announcement are based on the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Qualification Standards Handbook. Applicant Reconsideration