Ultra-low Temperature Metrologist

NIST is seeking an Ultra-low temperature Metrologist to join the Temperature & Humidity Group in the Sensor Science Division. This position involves advancing the frontiers of ultra-low-temperature metrology by leading research, development, and dissemination of next-generation temperature-measurement capabilities in the millikelvin and sub-kelvin regimes. This notice is issued under direct-hire authority to recruit new talent to occupations for which NIST has a severe shortage of candidates.

Major duties

As an Ultra-Low-Temperature Metrologist, this role emphasizes research and development in ultra-low-temperature metrology to enhance cryogenic measurement capabilities and establish traceable temperature standards in the millikelvin and sub-kelvin regimes. The candidate will: Design, develop, and implement advanced cryogenic measurement systems. Conduct innovative research to tackle critical challenges in sub-kelvin thermometry, which includes thermal management, parasitic heat effects, sensor characterization, and calibration methodologies. Lead the modernization of measurement infrastructure and develop advanced instrumentation and data analysis tools. Prepare technical publications and reports. Provide technical guidance and collaborate with national and international partners to advance measurement science and support emerging technologies. Apply expertise in cryogenic engineering, precision electrical measurements, thermal modeling, and automated data acquisition to enhance laboratory capabilities.

Qualifications

Individual Occupational Requirements 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 qualifications above, applicants must possess one of the following to qualify: A. One year (52 weeks) of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-09 level (ZP-II at NIST). Specialized experience is defined as: Conducting cryogenic and ultra-low-temperature research that includes precision thermometry, electrical measurements, or thermal modeling. Experience in developing automated data acquisition systems or instrumentation. Conducting uncertainty analysis to achieve accurate and traceable temperature measurements. OR B. Master's or equivalent graduate degree OR C. 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. 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 Education's website. A copy of the foreign education evaluation (containing the results with course-by-course listing) is required with your application.