Reactor Operator

Summary

NIST is seeking a Reactor Operator to maintain, test, and operate the nuclear reactor at the National Center for Neutron Research (NCNR). The role supports world‑class neutron measurement capabilities for researchers from industry, academia, and government, enabling critical scientific breakthroughs that advance economic and technical excellence in the United States. This notice is issued under direct‑hire authority to recruit new talent for occupations for which NIST has a severe shortage of candidates.

• ZT‑III:
  • Perform routine operations on a research reactor.
  • Perform equipment maintenance on a research reactor.
  • Perform specified routine procedures of a research reactor.
  • Attend routine continuous training on a research reactor.
• ZT‑IV:
  • Direct and perform routine operations on a research reactor.
  • Direct and perform equipment maintenance on a research reactor.
  • Direct specified routine procedures of a research reactor.
  • Attend routine continuous training on a research reactor.

• ZT‑III:
  • One year (52 weeks) of specialized experience equivalent to a GS‑08 grade level (ZT‑II for NIST employees) in the Federal service.
  • Specialized experience is defined as:
    • Assisting or providing technical support with regular routine procedures, operations, or maintenance of a nuclear facility.
    • Two full years of graduate education.
    • A master’s degree related to the position.
    • A combination of education and experience.
• ZT‑IV:
  • One year (52 weeks) of specialized experience equivalent to a GS‑10 grade level (ZT‑III for NIST employees) in the Federal service.
  • Specialized experience is defined as:
    • Performing routine operations or equipment maintenance on a nuclear facility with little supervision.
    • Identifying abnormal conditions and performing complex or specialized maintenance activities.
  • Volunteer work that demonstrates the above competencies counts toward experience (e.g., Peace Corps, Ameri Corps, professional or community organizations).

The qualification requirements in this vacancy announcement are based on the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Qualification Standards Handbook.