Thermodynamic Physicist

Full Job Description

Welcome to the Sensor Science Division in NIST's Physical Measurement Laboratory.

We are looking for a Thermodynamic Physicist to lead research and development in temperature metrology, support the dissemination of temperature scales, and conduct high-precision calibrations using cryogenic systems.

This notice is issued under direct-hire authority to recruit new talent to occupations for which NIST has a severe shortage of candidates.

All applicants must submit a resume NOT TO EXCEED two pages on standard-size paper.

If the resume exceeds two pages, only the first two pages will be reviewed for qualifications or assessment determinations. Individual Occupational Requirements Basic Requirements: 1.

Degree: physics; or related degree that included at least 24 semester hours in physics. OR 2.

Combination of education and experience--courses equivalent to a major in physics totaling at least 24 semester hours, plus appropriate experience or additional education.

In either A or B above, the courses must have included a fundamental course in general physics and, in addition, courses in any two of the following: electricity and magnetism, heat, light, mechanics, modern physics, and sound.

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 conducting high-accuracy temperature measurements and calibrations; applying traceability and measurement uncertainty principles; and developing measurement support tools using programming languages.

OR Master's or equivalent graduate degree as defined in the basic requirements. 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 through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social).

Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment.

You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. The qualification requirements in this vacancy announcement are based on the U.S.

Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Qualification Standards Handbook.

If requesting reconsideration of your qualification determination, please refer to the following site: Applicant Reconsideration Major Duties:

As a Thermodynamic Physicist you will: - Lead research and development in temperature metrology - Conduct high-precision calibrations using cryogenic systems, fluid baths, and high-temperature furnaces.

- Apply expertise in measurement uncertainty to improve traceability, reduce errors, and ensure compliance with national and international standards.

- Design and execute experiments - Lead major laboratory equipment upgrades - Provide technical guidance and collaborate with internal and external stakeholders