Physicist

NIST's Time & Frequency Division is hiring an Optical Clock Research Physicist to develop optical lattice clocks for advanced timekeeping applications. We need a talented and ambitious physicist to lead project development, working with a team of experts to advance state of the art performance.
This notice is issued under direct-hire authority to recruit new talent to occupations for which NIST has a severe shortage of candidates.

In either 1 or 2 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.

• One year of specialized experience equivalent to at least GS-9 (ZP-II at NIST). Specialized experience is defined as:
  • Experience assisting with the development and operation of optical clocks, including assisting with laser cooling and optical trapping of alkaline earth elements.
• Master's or equivalent graduate degree
• A combination of graduate education and specialized experience.

Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, Ameri Corps) 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.