Ocean Career: NOAA Physical Scientist
Listed on 2026-08-29
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Engineering
Research Scientist, Environmental Compliance & Protection -
Science
Research Scientist, Environmental Compliance & Protection
Physical Scientist
As a Physical Scientist, you will perform the following duties:
- Test and evaluate new technologies for use in hydrographic surveying, such as sonars, positioning systems, uncrewed systems (UxS), and data acquisition and processing systems. Conduct field testing and implement new technologies aboard National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) vessels. Analyze and report on the results of testing.
- Ensure continuous and efficient operation of ocean mapping systems aboard NOAA platforms by providing timely support of operational hydrographic equipment and systems, in-house and third-party software, the integrations of these systems and software, and best practices for its use. Conduct training on new systems, technologies, and procedures undergoing transition to operational use and existing operational systems, technologies, and procedures.
- Develop and implement plans for the operational transition of new systems and technologies. Support the development of documentation for new systems and technologies, including requirements and specifications, test plans and reports, and standard operating procedures.
To qualify for the 1301 series:
EDUCATION:
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
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.
-AND-
SPECIALIZED
EXPERIENCE:
Applicants must possess one year of specialized experience equivalent in difficulty and responsibility to the next lower grade level in the Federal Service. Specialized experience is experience that has equipped the applicant with the particular competencies/knowledge, skills and abilities to successfully perform the duties of the position. This experience need not have been in the federal government.
To qualify at the ZP-3 or GS-11 level:
SPECIALIZED
EXPERIENCE:
In addition to meeting the Basic Requirements above, applicants must also possess one full year (52 weeks) of specialized experience equivalent to the ZP-2 or GS-09 in the Federal service. Specialized experience MUST include all of the following:
- Assisting in developing and evaluating hydrographic systems, technologies, and procedures used in ocean mapping systems; and
- Assisting in testing or transitioning new or existing systems or technologies into an operational environment.
OR
SUBSTITUTION OF
EDUCATION:
Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree or 3 years of progressively higher-level graduate education leading to such a degree.
OR
COMBINATION OF
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:
A combination of successfully completed graduate-level education and specialized experience may be used to meet the total experience requirements.
Note:
Only graduate-level education in excess of the amount required for the next lower level may be combined with experience.
Salary range: $84,579 – $133,142 per year
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