PHYSICAL SCIENTIST-DIRECT HIRE AUTHORITY

For additional information on direct hire opportunities with the Air Force please click here. To qualify as a physical scientist, employee must meet the education and specialized experience requirements described in the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Qualification Standards, Group Coverage Qualification Standard for Professional and Scientific Positions: https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/1300/general-physical-science-series-1301/ KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (KSAs): Your qualifications will be evaluated on the basis of your level of knowledge, skills, abilities and/or competencies in the following areas: 1. Knowledge of a wide range of multidisciplinary scientific, technical and engineering concepts, principles, practices, standards, methods, techniques, materials, and equipment to effectively apply theories, principles, and concepts to project development, execution, and advisory services. 2. Knowledge of technical and scientific methodologies sufficient to apply experimental theories and/or new applications to issues and provide technical advice and direction in support of weapon systems, subsystems, and/or support equipment. 3. Knowledge of systems engineering practices and procedures as they pertain to acquisition, modification, production, sustainment, and logistics principles, concepts, policies, and systems. Knowledge of asset management principles, DoD and AF concepts, theories, policies, directives, and procedures. 4. Knowledge of financial management principles and procedures, and public laws relative to assigned areas of expertise. Knowledge of planning, programming, and budgeting cycles, financial systems, and restrictions on the expenditures of funds. 5. Ability to devise and evaluate criteria, parameters, characteristics, and interrelationships for design approaches; to assess the impact of new technology on current systems and processes; and to gather, assemble, and analyze facts, form conclusions, and devise and recommend solutions to problems.
The Air Force offers qualified applicants opportunities to be hired for certain occupations covered by Direct Hire Authorities (DHA). The use of DHA is a fast-track method of hiring applicants from the public with no prior federal status using a non-traditional method of recruitment. To find additional information on “What Is DHA” and to view and/or apply to current DHA opportunities listed on Air Force Civilian Services “Direct Hire Job Board”, please click here.