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Neutron Physicist

National Institute Of Standards And Technology

Job Location:

Gaithersburg, MD - USA

Yearly Salary: USD 85447 - 85447

Posted: 6 October 2026 (21 days ago)

Application Deadline: 3 January 2027

Vacancies: 1 Vacancy

Job Summary

Summary

NIST is seeking a Neutron Physicist to join the Neutron Physics this role you will provide traceable calibrations for neutron sources to both external and internal customers. The primary objective is to improve customer interactions and ensure that calibration services meet the standards outlined in the NIST quality manual.

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

Duties

As a Neutron Physicist this role focuses on providing and maintaining calibration services.

The Candidate will:

Conduct experimental work to carry out fundamental research in neutron physics and measurement.
Analyze and interpret experimental results related to neutron measurement techniques.
Contributes to the completion and future direction of large-scale technical projects within the group and division.
Collaborate with research groups technical teams and external experts to coordinate efforts and resolve complex challenges.

Requirements

Conditions of employment

U.S. citizenship
Males born aftermust be registered for Selective Service
Suitable for Federal employment
Bargaining Unit Position: No

Qualifications

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 one year (52 weeks) of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-09 (ZP-II at NIST) level. Specialized Experience is defined as experience in:

Analyzing data from experiments on neutron measurement calculations.
Compiling datasets and interpreting results.
Preparing technical measurement reports.
Documenting research findings.

OR

Masters 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

Education

This position has an education requirement. Transcripts must be submitted to validate that the education requirement has been met. Unofficial transcripts will be accepted in the application package. However an official copy will be required before a final offer of employment.

Use of foreign education for qualifications. An accredited organization must evaluate education completed outside of the U.S. to ensure that it is comparable to education received in accredited institutions in the U.S. Click here to view a listing of accredited organizations from the Department of Educations website. A copy of the foreign education evaluation (containing the results with course-by-course listing) is required with your application.

Additional information

This position is covered under NISTs Alternative Personnel Management System (APMS) a pay-for-performance system with excellent HR flexibilities to help NIST recruit and retain top talent. Learn more about the APMS here!

We may share your application package with other selecting officials. Additional selections may be made through this vacancy.
Click all links in this vacancy announcement to view additional information or instructions.
You MUST select at least ONE ELIGIBILITY to be considered for this position.
All documents submitted for this announcement must be legible to make qualification or eligibility determinations.

A probationary period may be required.

NIST strives to build a flexible and encouraging work environment to bring out the best in our employees. To help our employees balance responsibilities at home and at work NIST offers a variety of work-life flexibilities. For more information please visit our Careers website.

Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government passionate about the ideals of our American republic and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.

A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.

Review our benefits

Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.

Required Experience:

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