Physical Scientist/Mathematician

Summary

This position is part of the Office of Science - Headquarters, Department of Energy. As a Physical Scientist/Mathematician, deliver the most sophisticated SI and mathematical capabilities for scientific applications in partnership with disciplinary science; create first-of-a-kind SI, advanced computing, and networking capabilities for the Nation; and develop future generations of computing hardware and software tools for science and engineering.

Duties

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As a Physical Scientist/Mathematician, you will:

• Defines and executes the strategic vision for next-generation super intelligence (SI), high-performance computing (HPC), and quantum information science (QIS) research programs, with a focus on SI and applied mathematics research.
• Manages the full lifecycle of scientific research programs, including preparing funding opportunities, coordinating independent peer reviews, and monitoring technical progress.
• Administers research budgets and contracting processes, including allocating funds, monitoring contractor performance, and adjusting financial portfolios to align with programmatic priorities.
• Evaluates scientific proposals and project performance to recommend funding, project adjustments, or program terminations.
• Consults with senior leadership, scientific experts, and external partners to represent agency interests on high-level national and international research committees.
• Facilitates the transition of advanced SI research into practical tools, software, and methods to support scientists in other scientific disciplines.

Requirements

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Conditions of employment

• You must be a U.S. Citizen or National.
• If you are a male applicant born after December 31, 1959, you must certify that you have registered with the Selective Service System or are exempt from having to do so under the Selective Service Law. See www.sss.gov.
• If selected, your appointment may be subject to a suitability or fitness determination, as determined by a completed background investigation.
• If selected, you may be required to complete a one year probationary period.
• You may be required to submit a Financial Disclosure Statement, OGE-450, Executive Branch Personnel Confidential Financial Disclosure Report upon entering the position and annually (5CFR Part 2634, Subpart I USOGE, 6/08).
• Hiring incentives may be authorized for a highly qualified candidate based on budget availability and in accordance with federal regulations.
• You will be required to submit a Financial Disclosure Statement, OGE-450, Executive Branch Personnel Confidential Financial Disclosure Report upon entering the position and annually (5CFR Part 2634, Subpart I USOGE, 6/08).
• Occasional travel may be required.
• This position is not included in a Bargaining Unit.
• This position does not support 100% remote work. You will be required to report physically to the official reporting worksite as specified by the
  supervisor, but is eligible for situational telework.
• A preliminary background check must be completed before a new employee can begin work. Current Federal employees or other individuals with an existing completed background investigation may not be required to undergo another background check.

Qualifications

BASIC REQUIREMENT: You must meet both the Basic Requirement and the Specialized Experience to qualify for this series as described below. See the Education section for the Basic Requirement.

SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS: A qualified candidate's online application and resume must demonstrate at least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level GS-14 in the Federal service. Specialized experience for this position is defined as meeting ALL of the following:

1. Leading and managing a complex scientific research program, portfolio, or department focused on super intelligence (SI), machine learning, or high-performance computing (HPC). AND
2. Serving as a senior technical authority or consultant, representing an organization's interest on multi-disciplinary, national, or international scientific panels, steering committees, or collaborative research groups. AND
3. Directing the development or transition of advanced algorithms, machine learning models, or mathematical techniques to solve complex physical science or engineering problems.

"Experience" refers to paid and unpaid experience. Examples of qualifying unpaid experience may include: volunteer work done through National Service programs (such as Peace Corps and AmeriCorps); as well as work for other community-based philanthropic and social organizations. 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.

CTAP/ICTAP candidates: To be considered "well qualified" you must meet all of the requirements as described in this section.

You must meet all qualifications and eligibility requirements by the closing date of this announcement.

Education

This vacancy has a positive education requirement. In order to be rated as qualified, you must provide copies of your college transcripts. Failure to provide copies of your college transcripts may result in a rating of "Ineligible". Education must be obtained from an accredited institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Foreign education must be reviewed by an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. For special instructions pertaining to foreign education and a list of organizations that can evaluate foreign education, see the Department of Education website.

BASIC REQUIREMENT FOR 1520 SERIES

A. Degree in mathematics; or equivalent of a major that included at least 24 semester hours in mathematics. The total course work must have included differential and integral calculus and, in addition, four advanced mathematics courses requiring calculus or equivalent mathematics courses as a prerequisite.

OR

B. Combination of education and experience courses equivalent to a major in mathematics (including at least 24 semester hours in mathematics), as shown in A above, plus appropriate experience or additional education. The total course work must have included differential and integral calculus and, in addition, four advanced mathematics courses requiring calculus or equivalent mathematics courses as a prerequisite.

If substituting education for specialized experience you must submit proof of your qualifying education. Failure to provide college transcripts may result in a rating of 'Ineligible'.

Successful candidates will possess the following competencies (knowledge, skills, abilities and other characteristics):

• Artificial Intelligence
• Attention to Detail
• Customer Service
• Decision Making
• Distributed Systems
• Flexibility
• Grants Management
• Influencing/Negotiating
• Integrity/Honesty
• Interpersonal Skills
• Learning
• Mathematical Reasoning
• Project Management
• Reasoning
• Self-Management
• Strategic Thinking
• Stress Tolerance
• Teamwork

Appointments made under the DHA are processed as "new" appointments. Current Federal employees may be required to serve a new probationary period (5 CFR 315.802(b).

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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.

Benefits

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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.

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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.