Physicist

BASIC REQUIREMENTS: A. Degree: physics; or related degree that included at least 24 semester hours in physics. OR B. 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. AND In addition to the basic requirements above, applicants must meet one of the following to qualify: Applicants must possess one year (52 weeks) of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-09 grade level (ZP-II at NIST). Specialized experience is defined as: – Laboratory experience with atomic physics – Laboratory experience with electromagnetic field sensors – Laboratory experience with radio-frequency electronics – Experience with computer programming for data acquisition, analysis, and motion control OR Master’s or equivalent degree OR Combination of education and experience 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. Applicant Reconsideration
This role involves conducting research on electromagnetic field strength metrology, atom-based sensors, and related areas in atomic physics and optics, with responsibilities including calibrating sensors, developing uncertainty analyses, creating novel measurement methods, and contributing to standards development. You will also design laboratory experiments, analyze data, and disseminate findings through reports, publications, and presentations.