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Posted: April 13, 2026 (0 days ago)

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Physical Scientist - Entry to Experienced Level (Maryland)

National Security Agency/Central Security Service

Department of Defense

Fresh

Salary

$87,362 - $192,764

per year

Closes

April 28, 2026More DOD jobs →

Job Description

Summary

This job at the National Security Agency involves working as a physical scientist to develop tools and systems that protect sensitive national security information from physical threats, such as tampering or exploitation by adversaries.

You'll conduct research, design secure solutions, test materials in advanced labs, and train others on security practices, all to safeguard critical infrastructure.

It's a great fit for science graduates who are passionate about national defense, enjoy hands-on research, and want to collaborate with experts in a dynamic government setting near Washington, D.C.

Key Requirements

  • Degree in physical science or related field (e.g., physics, chemistry, materials science, engineering, astronomy)
  • Relevant experience in applying technical knowledge in engineering or physical sciences, including research, design, development, or testing of materials/products
  • Entry-level: Bachelor's degree with no experience, or Associate's degree plus 2 years relevant experience
  • Full performance: Bachelor's plus 3 years, Master's plus 1 year, or Doctoral with no experience; Associate's plus 5 years
  • Senior level: Bachelor's plus 6 years, Master's plus 4 years, or Doctoral plus 2 years; Associate's plus 8 years
  • Ability to conduct technical analysis, testing, and provide design guidance/training on security solutions
  • Experience in program/project management in scientific fields (can substitute for some experience)

Full Job Description

As an Engineering and Physical Science professional, you will use your skills to create the systems and tools that will be used to enhance the operation of intelligence.

You will advise, administer and perform scientific projects, such as planning, designing, and constructing specialized equipment, and ensuring adherence to sound engineering and scientific standards and principles.

For more information, please visit: https://apply.intelligencecareers.gov/job-description/1256567 The qualifications listed are the minimum acceptable to be considered for the position.

Degree must be in Physical Science or a related scientific field (for example, physics, chemistry, materials science, astronomy, engineering).

Relevant experience must be in one or more of the following: applying technical knowledge and expertise in engineering or physical sciences; development, research, design, or test of materials or products; or field investigations.

Program or project management in a scientific field may account for some, but not all, of the experience. ENTRY/DEVELOPMENTAL Entry is with a Bachelor's degree and no experience.

An Associate's degree plus 2 years of relevant experience may be considered.

FULL PERFORMANCE Entry is with a Bachelor's degree plus 3 years of relevant experience, or a Master's degree plus 1 year of relevant experience, or a Doctoral degree and no experience.

An Associate's degree plus 5 years of relevant experience may be considered.

SENIOR Entry is with a Bachelor's degree plus 6 years of relevant experience, or a Master's degree plus 4 years of relevant experience, or a Doctoral degree plus 2 years of relevant experience.

An Associate's degree plus 8 years of relevant experience may be considered. Major Duties:

The professionals at the National Security Agency (NSA) have one common goal: to protect our nation. The mission requires a strong offense and a steadfast defense.

The offense collects, processes and disseminates intelligence information derived from foreign signals for intelligence and counterintelligence purposes.

The defense prevents adversaries from gaining access to sensitive classified national security information.

The NSA's Cybersecurity Directorate's Mission is to protect critical systems, information, material and infrastructure against physical exploitation by nation-state adversaries and trusted insiders through research, design, and engagement.

The NSA is located in the Washington DC Metropolitan area and is home to many commercial collaborators, universities, government laboratories, and sponsors. The D.C.

Metropolitan area is not only a great place to live, but an ideal place for a young scientist/researcher to launch a career.

NSA currently has opportunities for highly motivated Physical Scientists to provide expertise, guidance and support to the development and implementation of mission capabilities that align with mission challenges.

Individuals in these positions are responsible for: - Research, Development, and Implementation - Deter the physical compromise of critical material through the research, development and implementation of technical solutions.

- Design Guidance and Training - Deliver training, education, and guidance to users in the identification and application of effective security solutions.

- Technical Analysis and Testing - Deliver technical testing services through state-of-the-art laboratory facilities consisting of environmental chambers and materials analysis tools.

- Community Outreach - Engage with Government and industry technical communities to share knowledge and leverage multi-source expertise to meet security requirements.

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Posted on USAJOBS: 4/13/2026 | Added to FreshGovJobs: 4/14/2026

Source: USAJOBS | ID: 1256567