Summary NIST works with industry and science to advance innovation and improve quality of life. We're looking for a Physical Scientist to join our team! This notice is issued under direct-hire authority to recruit new talent to occupations for which NIST has a severe shortage of candidates. Responsibilities In this position, you will: Plan and carry out experimental work to perform fundamental research in radioactivity measurement applications. Propose new approaches, instrumentation, and methods for accurate radioactivity measurements in diverse fields such as medical applications, nuclear security, and environmental monitoring. Conduct research to improve methods in radionuclide metrology, focusing on the measurement of radioactive gases and the use of cryogenic detectors. Design experiments to test new methods and instrumentation for precise radioactivity measurement. Analyze and interpret experimental results related to radionuclide measurement techniques. Document research findings and present them to project and group leaders in an organized manner. Collaborate with research groups, technical teams, and external experts to coordinate efforts and resolve complex challenges. Contribute to the completion and future direction of large-scale technical projects within the group and division. Requirements Conditions of Employment Qualifications BASIC REQUIREMENTS: Degree: physical science, engineering, or mathematics that included 24 semester hours in physical science and/or related engineering science such as mechanics, dynamics, properties of materials, and electronics. OR Combination of education and experience -- education equivalent to one of the majors shown in A above that included at least 24 semester hours in physical science and/or related engineering science, plus appropriate experience or additional education. IN ADDITION TO THE BASIC REQUIREMENTS APPLICANTS MUST POSSESS: One year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-9 (ZP-II at NIST) level Specialized experience is defined as: Conducting experiments involving radioactivity measurement, including operating and calibrating instruments such as cryogenic detectors or radioactive gas monitors Collecting and analyzing experimental data from radionuclide measurement experiments, including performing calculations, compiling data sets, and interpreting results Documenting research findings, including preparing technical reports and contributing to scientific publications OR Master's or equivalent degree in physical science or other directly related field of study OR A combination of successfully completed graduate level education and specialized experience as described above 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 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 Education's 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 NIST's 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! Your application package may be shared with other selecting officials at NIST for similar opportunities, and additional selections may be made from this vacancy. Click all links in this vacancy announcement to view additional information or instructions. 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 such as: Telework Flexible work schedules Paid parental leave Paid vacation Sick leave Family-friendly leave Childcare subsidy program for qualifying families Back-up child care program Child and elder-care resources On-site childcare center Lactation spaces Wellness programs Fitness center Employee assistance programs