Optical Physicist

Summary

Welcome to the Sensor Science Division in NIST's Physical Measurement Laboratory. We are looking for a Physicist to lead advanced Spectro radiometric research and develop high-accuracy calibration methods. As a Physicist on our team, you will design, construct, and optimize precision measurement facilities. You will also provide technical guidance, prepare reports and publications, and collaborate with internal and external stakeholders.

Welcome to the Sensor Science Division (SSD) in NIST's Physical Measurement Laboratory! Our Mission is to foster the next generation of SI-traceable dimensional, thermodynamic, and optical radiation measurements and their application by providing calibrations, standards, and innovations that improve U.S. industrial competitiveness and quality-of-life. As a new Optical Physicist on our team, you will:

• Lead advanced spectroradiometric research
• Develop high-accuracy calibration methods for spectral power responsivity, spectral radiance, spectral irradiance, radiation thermometry, and blackbody sources.
• Design, construct, and optimize precision measurement facilities and instrumentation, including optics, integrating spheres, infrared thermometers, lamp standards, and high heat-flux systems.
• Apply expertise in radiometry and measurement uncertainty to improve traceability, reduce error, and support national and international standards.
• Conduct tests, calibrations, and measurements using advanced analytical instruments and develop new or improved measurement methodologies.

All applicants must submit a resume NOT TO EXCEED two pages on standard-size paper. If the resume exceeds two pages, only the first two pages will be reviewed for qualifications or assessment determinations.

Individual Occupational Requirements Basic Requirements:

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.

In addition to the basic requirements, applicants must also have 1 year (52 weeks) of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-9 (ZP-II at NIST) level. Specialized Experience is defined as experience in optomechanical design, radiation thermometry, detector characterizations, AND optics. OR Master's or equivalent graduate degree as defined in the basic requirements. OR A combination of graduate education and specialized experience as defined in the additional requirements.

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. If requesting reconsideration of your qualification determination, please refer to the following site:
Applicant Reconsideration