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Posted: March 30, 2026 (3 days ago)

Added to FreshGovJobs: April 2, 2026 (0 days ago)

Posted recently. We are still expanding our coverage, so we added it a bit late. Still worth applying!

Physical Scientist

Defense Threat Reduction Agency

Department of Defense

Fresh

Location

Salary

$143,913 - $187,093

per year

Closes

April 6, 2026More DOD jobs →

GS-14 Pay Grade

Base salary range: $104,604 - $135,987

Typical requirements: 1 year specialized experience at GS-13. Senior expert or supervisor.

Note: Actual salary includes locality pay (15-40%+ depending on location).

Job Description

Summary

This job involves working as an expert in physical sciences to develop cutting-edge technologies that detect, protect against, and mitigate chemical and biological threats for the U.S. military.

You'll manage projects, translate user needs into technical plans, and advise leaders while collaborating with government and international partners.

It's a great fit for someone with advanced science knowledge and experience leading defense-related tech projects who thrives in high-stakes, team-oriented environments.

Key Requirements

  • One year of specialized experience at GS-13 level in physical sciences like applied physics, analytical chemistry, or organic chemistry, focusing on advanced technology prototypes for detection, protection, modeling, simulation, and hazard mitigation
  • Experience directing program management, executing investments, facilitating project reviews, and using portfolio management tools to track progress
  • Ability to translate complex end-user requirements into technical objectives and prepare comprehensive technical and fiscal program plans
  • Advising senior leadership and representing the organization on high-level committees and advisory panels with federal and international partners on chemical and biological defense
  • Evaluating CBRND mission requirements and applying acquisition regulations for program compliance and strategic alignment
  • Bachelor's degree in physical science, engineering, or mathematics with at least 24 semester hours in physical science and/or related engineering science, or equivalent combination of education and experience

Full Job Description

This position may be filled using Direct Hire Authority: Z5CAV/Direct-Hire Authority (Certain DoD Personnel) PL 118-31, Sec 125OB (i)(2), 12/22/2023.This position is being filled under the memorandum from the Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness (USD(P&R)) "Expansion of Direct Hire Authority for Certain Personnel of the Department of Defense," dated August 12,2024.

This is an acquisition position. For more information please see: AcqDemo. You may qualify at the GS 14 , if you fulfill the following qualifications: A.

One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-13 grade level in the Federal service, military or private sector: Serving as a subject matter expert in physical sciences such as applied physics, analytical chemistry, or organic chemistry driving the development of advanced technology prototypes in detection, protection, modeling and simulation, and hazard mitigation Directing Program management, executed investments to facilitate project and programmatic reviews, utilized portfolio management tools to effectively track and report on progress Translating complex end-user requirements into technical objectives, prepared comprehensive technical and fiscal program plans to develop and demonstrate advanced capabilities Advising senior leadership and represented the organization on high-level committees and advisory panels with, federal, and international partners on critical matters of chemical and biological defense Evaluating Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear Defense (CBRND) mission requirements, and applied acquisition regulations to ensure full program compliance and strategic alignment In addition to meeting qualifications, your application package must reflect the applicable experience to meet the Individual Occupational Requirements for the 1301, series as listed below: 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.

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 Major Duties:

As a Physical Scientist at the GS-1301-14 some of your typical work assignments may include: The position requires the individual to act as a subject matter expert in physical sciences, such as applied physics and chemistry, to guide the development of advanced technology prototypes for detection, protection, modeling, and hazard mitigation of chemical and biological threats.

Key duties include: Technical Expertise: Serving as a technical expert on Science and Technology projects, translating end-user requirements into technical objectives, and preparing program plans to develop new capabilities.

Program Management: Assisting in the management and execution of investments, facilitating project and programmatic reviews, and using portfolio management tools to track and report on progress.

Advisory and Liaison: Representing the agency on high-level committees, advisory panels, and expert teams.

The role involves collaborating with partners across the DoD, other federal agencies, and international bodies on matters of chemical and biological defense.

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Posted on USAJOBS: 3/30/2026 | Added to FreshGovJobs: 4/2/2026

Source: USAJOBS | ID: DTRA-26-12922927-DH