Atomic Physicist / Engineering and Physical Sciences Researcher

Atomic Physicist / Engineering and Physical Sciences Researcher National Security Agency

• 4.1 Fort Meade, MD Job Details Full-time $132,751
• $197,200 a year 4 days ago Qualifications Fabrication Computer science Doctoral degree Computer Science Calculus Engineering Physics research Mathematics Collaborating with government agencies 3 years Master's degree Optics Astronomy Bachelor's degree in engineering Bachelor's degree Task prioritization Systems engineering Physics Chemistry Senior level Master's degree in engineering Cross-functional collaboration Project leadership Leadership Communication skills Cross-functional communication Full Job Description NSA is home to one of the largest and most established in-house research organizations within the U.

S. Intelligence Community (IC), employing scientists with world-class skills in fields such as mathematics, physics, computer science, engineering, and cybersecurity. We collaborate with leading industries, universities, and national laboratories to advance core competencies, leverage work in overlapping disciplines, and solve some of the most challenging national security problems thought to be intractable by adversaries and commercial industry. NSA's Laboratory for Physical Sciences (LPS) attracts top technical talent who not only solve the nation's urgent intelligence problems, but also invent what hasn't been invented and concentrate on what will be needed five, ten, fifteen years down the road. Through its partnership with the University of Maryland (UMD), LPS offers a unique environment where university, industry, and federal government scientists collaborate on research in advanced communication, sensing, and computer technologies. To learn more about LPS, visit: https://www.lps.umd.edu LPS is currently seeking an experienced Quantum Computing Technical Program Manager/ Atomic Physicist, who will be responsible for setting research goals and direct research focused on conducting experimental or theoretical studies to further understanding of the fundamental limitations of atomic qubit devices and platforms. Specific focus of this job is for applicants with an extensive history working with either trapped icon or neutral atom system for fault-tolerant quantum computing applications. As a valued member of the LPS team, you will leverage your expertise, ideas, and vision to:

• Lead and oversee projects that shape the future of U.S. computing interests
• Collaborate with leading scientists in quantum computing across government, industry, and academia to understand the latest state-of-the-art research, and identify future research gaps and needs
• Implement strategies by directing U.S. Government investments
• Advance U.S. leadership in Quantum Information Science (QIS) for the benefit of the entire nation Experience in the following areas related to solid-state qubits are desired:
• Quantum Hardware Development, Operation, and Overcoming Challenges. This would include direct experience (either experimental or theoretical) with trapped ion systems or neutral atom arrays, either in simulation, modelling, fabrication or manipulation of atom temperatures, movements, gate operations and readout
• Quantum Supporting Technologies and Methods such as experience with trap development (e.g. chip or tweezers), laser control systems or other room temperature optics or electronics
• Quantum protocol development and performance evaluation, from single qubits to multi-qubits and quantum error correction
• Characterization, analysis, and physical constraints of quantum systems
• Evaluating current or future opportunities and limitations based on past, current, and projected performance
• Maturing quantum technologies through multiple stages of development and levels of maturity
• Several layers of a quantum information system hierarchy, from micro-physics to logical, and how each level impacts qubit performance Job Summary As an Engineering and Physical Science professional, you will use your skills to create the systems and tools that will be used to enhance the operation of intelligence.

You will advise, administer and perform scientific projects, such as planning, designing, and constructing specialized equipment, and ensuring adherence to sound engineering and scientific standards and principles. The NSA offers multiple areas of focus for facilities engineers, including computer, architectural, electrical, mechanical, and structural. In addition, we are seeking skills that include computer design, microelectronics, radio frequency design, and systems engineering. Apply your science and engineering skills to protect the nation. Qualifications The qualifications listed are the minimum acceptable to be considered for the position. Degree must be in either (1) Engineering, (2) Physics or Astronomy from an accredited college, or (3) a relevant professional technical field (for example, chemistry, computer science, mathematics, hydrology, geology). For Engineering degrees, if program is not ABET accredited, it must include specified coursework.

• Specified coursework includes courses in differential and integral calculus and 5 of the following 18 areas: (a) statics or dynamics, (b) strength of materials/stress-strain relationships, (c) fluid mechanics, hydraulics, (d) thermodynamics, (e) electromagnetic fields, (f) nature and properties of materials/relating particle and aggregate structure to properties, (g) solid state electronics, (h) microprocessor applications, (i), computer systems, (j) signal processing, (k) digital design, (l) systems and control theory, (m) circuits or generalized circuits, (n) communication systems, (o) power systems, (p) computer networks, (q) software development, (r) Any other comparable area of fundamental engineering science or physics, such as optics, heat transfer, or soil mechanics.

Relevant experience must be in one or more of the following: performing engineering or physical sciences work, or conducting academic or independent research in a technical field (for example, mathematics, engineering, cognitive sciences and physical sciences). SENIOR Entry is with a Bachelor's degree plus 7 years of relevant experience, or a Master's degree plus 5 years of relevant experience, or a Doctoral degree plus 3 years of relevant experience. EXPERT Entry is with a Bachelor's degree plus 10 years of relevant experience, or a Master's degree plus 8 years of relevant experience, or a Doctoral degree plus 6 years of relevant experience. Competencies You are someone who has excellent communication and interpersonal skills, a desire to guide and influence a broad research community, thrives on solving problems, and are able to:

• Apply knowledge of mathematics, engineering, and physical sciences to analyze problems and determine technical solutions
• Work effectively across several different functional areas in a fast-paced, collaborative environment
• Handle and prioritize multiple assignments
• Synthesize information to solve complex problems
• Ability to clearly communicate to peers and leadership in a variety of methods and forums

Pay, Benefits, & Work Schedule Pay:

Salary offers are based on candidates' education level and years of experience relevant to the position and also take into account information provided by the hiring manager/organization regarding the work level for the position.

Salary Range:

$132,751

• $197,200 (Senior, Expert) Salary range varies by location, work level, and relevant experience to the position.

Training will be provided based on the selectee's needs and experience.

Benefits:

NSA offers a comprehensive benefits package.

Work Schedule:

This is a full-time position, Monday

• Friday, with basic 8hr/day work requirement between 6:00 a.

m. and 6:00 p.m. (flexible).

DCIPS Trial Period:

If selected for this position, you will be required to serve a two-year DCIPS trial period, unless you are a veterans' preference-eligible employee, in which case you are required to serve a one-year trial period. This trial period runs concurrently with your commitment to the position, if applicable. Before finalizing your appointment at the conclusion of your trial period, NSA will determine whether your continued employment advances the public interest. This decision will be based on factors such as your performance and conduct; the Agency's needs and interests; whether your continued employment would advance the Agency's organizational goals; and whether your continued employment would advance the efficiency of the Federal service. Upon completion of your trial period, your employment will be terminated unless you receive certification, in writing, that your continued employment advances the public interest. If you do not receive certification for continued employment, you should receive written notice prior to the end of your trial period that your employment will be terminated and the effective date of such termination. How to apply Apply soonest, as job postings can close earlier than stated end dates due to changes in requirements. It is important to review and note the minimum qualifications, as only those applicants who meet the required qualifications will be contacted to continue the employment process. Please populate the resume tool to showcase any relevant work experience and education related to the position and answer any applicable screening questions. Information collected will be used to determine eligibility, and failure to provide accurate information may result in disqualification for this position. A confirmation email will be sent after submission of the first application and also after any future updates to submitted applications.

• Due to time sensitive communications regarding applications, please ensure your spam filters are configured to accept email from . For job vacancies that include stated testing requirements, also include the following: @uwe.nsa.gov, @nsa.gov, and @pearson.com
• U.

S. Citizenship is required for all applicants. NSA is an equal opportunity employer and abides by applicable employment laws and regulations. All applicants and employees are subject to random drug testing in accordance with Executive Order 12564. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a security background investigation and polygraph. NSA is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified applicants with disabilities during the application and hiring process. The following four narrative questions provide an opportunity for you to highlight your dedication to public service for the hiring manager and agency leadership (or designee(s)). While your responses are not required and will not be scored, we encourage you to thoughtfully address each question. Please provide a response of 200 words or less to each question. You will be asked to certify that you are using your own words and did not use a consultant or artificial intelligence (AI) such as a large language model (LLM) like ChatGPT or Copilot. (Please attach in application) 1. How has your commitment to the Constitution and the founding principles of the United States inspired you to pursue this role within the Federal government? Provide a concrete example from professional, academic, or personal experience. 2. In this role, how would you use your skills and experience to improve government efficiency and effectiveness? Provide specific examples where you improved processes, reduced costs, or improved outcomes. 3. How would you help advance the President's Executive Orders and policy priorities in this role? Identify one or two relevant Executive Orders or policy initiatives that are significant to you, and explain how you would help implement them if hired. 4. How has a strong work ethic contributed to your professional, academic or personal achievements? Provide one or two specific examples, and explain how those qualities would enable you to serve effectively in this position. DCIPS Disclaimer

• VETERANS AND TRANSITIONING SERVICE MEMBERS

• Thank you for your service!

The National Security Agency (NSA) is part of the Defense Civilian Intelligence Personnel System (DCIPS). All positions at NSA are in the Excepted Service under Title 10, United States Codes (U.S.C.), Section 1601 appointment authority. Veterans' Preference In accordance with the procedures provided in DoD Instruction 1400.25, Volume 2005, "

DoD Civilian Personnel Management System:

Defense Civilian Intelligence Personnel System Employment and Placement," NSA applies veterans' preference, as defined by Section 2108 of Title 5, U.S.C., to eligible candidates. If you are claiming veterans' preference, you are required to provide acceptable documentation of your preference eligibility upon application. Acceptable documentation includes:

• DD-214: "Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty," which shows dates of service and discharge under honorable conditions (Copy 4); OR

•

Certification of Service:

A written document on letterhead from the appropriate branch of the armed forces that certifies the service member is expected to be discharged or released from active duty service in the armed forces under honorable conditions not later than 120 days after the date the certification is signed. The certification should include the military service dates, including the expected discharge or release date; AND

• Standard Form 15 (SF-15) Application for 10-point Veteran Preference (http://www.opm.gov/forms/pdf_fill/sf15.pdf). If you are claiming a service-connected disability of 30 percent or more, the documentation you provide must specifically demonstrate this level of disability; AND
• VA Letter of Disability (for 10pt and Sole Survivorship rating) You may obtain a letter from the Department of Veterans Affairs reflecting your level of disability for preference eligibility by visiting a VA Regional Office, contacting a VA call center, or online (https://www.ebenefits.va.gov/).
• Failure to provide sufficient documentation of veterans' preference eligibility may preclude NSA from identifying you as a preference eligible candidate during the hiring selection process.