Deputy Associate Director for Laboratory Programs Job in Gaithersburg, MD

Vacancy No. SES-25-12585070 Department National Institute of Standards and Technology
Salary $147,649.00 to $221,900.00 Grade 00 to 00
Perm/Temp Permanent FT/PT Full-time
Open Date 12/19/2024 Close Date 1/21/2025
Job Link Apply Online Who may apply Public
Locations:
Gaithersburg, MD


Summary

The Deputy Associate Director for Laboratory Programs is primarily responsible for providing executive leadership for the operations of NIST's Laboratory Programs and is responsible for the day-to-day administrative, financial, and personnel management of all offices within the Associate Director for Laboratory Programs (ADLP).

Duties

This announcement reflects OPM's 2024 Rates of Basic Pay for Members of the Senior Executive Service (SES), but upon a candidate's selection, the OPM 2025 salary table will be utilized upon release in January 2025.

The Deputy Associate Director for Laboratory Programs provides the ADLP with expertise in operational processes across the Directorate. Specific responsibilities include:

  • leading all strategic operational initiatives for the Laboratories and coordinates all operations across the ADLP.
  • serving as the key resource for effective coordination across all NIST Directorates to ensure integrated programs and efforts.
  • assisting the ADLP in formulating and implementing strategic plans, policies and processes across the Directorate.
  • considering key national and organization-wide goals, priorities, and values in executing responsibilities; responding to the general public and clientele groups; remaining current on relevant social, political, and economic developments; and representing NIST on complex issues and effectively give briefings, speeches, testimony, etc., to persuade, sell, inform, and/or negotiate plans and programs.
  • providing administrative oversight and coordinating the activities of subordinate organizations; serving as a catalyst for innovation and creativity in analyzing and solving complex problems; fostering an environment conducive to teamwork and empowerment of supervisors and employees; and promoting and encouraging diversity in subordinate organizations and throughout NIST.
  • overseeing the development of short- and long-range plans to meet organizational objectives; establishing or revising programs' goals, implementing major modifications in organizational or functional structure; and advising on key appointments or promotions to ensure the most efficient organization.
  • encouraging personal and professional development among subordinates and providing opportunities for individuals to accomplish their goals in relation to NIST.
  • serving as acting Associate Director for Laboratory Programs in the absence of the Associate Director.

Requirements

Conditions of Employment

  • U.S. Citizenship is required.
  • Background and/or security investigation required.
  • Public Financial Disclosure (SF-278) filing within 30 days is required.
  • Incumbent may be subject to geographic mobility.
  • Minimum education requirement (as applicable).
  • Designated or random drug testing may be required.
  • Bargaining Unit: No.

Qualifications

Eligibility for this position will be based upon a clear showing that the applicant has had experience of the scope and quality sufficient to effectively carry out the duties and assignments of the position.

As a basic requirement for entry into the SES, applicants must provide evidence of leadership experience that is indicative of senior executive level managerial capability and directly related to the experience outlined under the Executive Core Qualifications (ECQs) and the Professional/Technical Qualifications (PTQs).

To meet the minimum qualifications of this position, you must possess all of ECQs and PTQs.

Applicants must also meet the OPM Individual Occupational Requirement(s) for this position.

Basic Requirements:
1. Degree: 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
2. Combination of education and experience: education equivalent to one of the majors shown in 1. above that included at least 24 semester hours in physical science and/or related engineering science, plus appropriate experience or additional education.

You must show in your resume that you possess the mandatory ECQs and PTQs listed below. We recommend that your resume (up to 5 pages) emphasizes your level of responsibilities, the scope and complexity of the programs you managed, and your accomplishments, including the results of your actions. An individual's total experience must demonstrate possession of the ECQs and PTQs to perform the duties of this position.

EXECUTIVE CORE QUALIFICATIONS (ECQs):
ECQ 1 - LEADING CHANGE: This core qualification involves the ability to bring about strategic change, both within and outside the organization, to meet organizational goals. Inherent to this ECQ is the ability to establish an organizational vision and to implement it in a continuously changing environment. (Competencies: creativity and innovation, external awareness, flexibility, resilience, strategic thinking, vision)

ECQ 2 - LEADING PEOPLE: This core qualification involves the ability to lead people toward meeting the organization's vision, mission, and goals. Inherent to this ECQ is the ability to provide an inclusive workplace that fosters the development of others, facilitates cooperation and teamwork, and supports constructive resolution of conflicts. (Competencies: conflict management, leveraging diversity, developing others, team building)

ECQ 3 - RESULTS DRIVEN: This core qualification involves the ability to meet organizational goals and customer expectations. Inherent to this ECQ is the ability to make decisions that produce high-quality results by applying technical knowledge, analyzing problems, and calculating risks. (Competencies: accountability, customer service, decisiveness, entrepreneurship, problem solving, technical credibility)

ECQ 4 - BUSINESS ACUMEN: This core qualification involves the ability to manage human, financial, and information resources strategically. (Competencies: financial management, human capital management, technology management)

ECQ 5 - BUILDING COALITIONS: This core qualification involves the ability to build coalitions internally and with other Federal agencies, State and local governments, nonprofit and private sector organizations, foreign governments, or international organizations to achieve common goals. (Competencies: partnering, political savvy, influencing/negotiating)

PROFESSIONAL TECHNICAL QUALIFICATIONS (PTQs):
PTQ 1 - Demonstrated experience and expertise in one or more of the following research-related disciplines: physics, chemistry, biology, information technology, engineering, or documentary standards.

PTQ 2 - Demonstrated experience managing a complex set of offices within a research environment and establishing organizational strategies, process improvements, and organizational operations. Experience must demonstrate knowledge of these programs and their impact on organizational objectives and performance goals.

PTQ 3 - Demonstrated experience developing priorities, aligning resources to meet those priorities, and gaining consensus for implementation for a large research organization.

The above qualifications would typically be acquired through education, senior level experience, and training which reflect progressive development and achievement in leading and managing a comprehensive program in a complex organization. An individual's total experience must demonstrate the ability to perform the duties of the position. Applicants must meet all of the qualification requirements by the closing date of this announcement. Applications should be submitted on-line through usajobs.gov. Please do not submit separate statements addressing the ECQs and PTQs.

The application process used to recruit for this position requires submitting a RESUME ONLY. Although there is no requirement to address each of the ECQs and PTQs separately, evidence of each must be clearly reflected in your resume. Your resume must not exceed 5 pages.

For detailed guidance on addressing Executive Qualifications in a resume for the resume-based method of applying, applicants are strongly encouraged to review the Office of Personnel Management's Guide to Executive Qualifications at https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/senior-executive-service/reference-materials/guidetosesquals_2012.pdf

Education

This position has an education requirement. Transcripts must be submitted to validate that the education requirement has been met. Unofficial transcripts will be accepted in the application package. However, an official copy will be required prior to a final offer of employment. Applicants who do not meet the basic education requirement will be automatically disqualified from consideration.

Education completed outside of the U.S. must be evaluated by an accredited organization to ensure that it is comparable to education received in accredited institutions in the U.S. Click here to view a listing of accredited organizations from the Department of Education's website. A copy of the foreign education evaluation (containing the results with a course by course listing) is required with your application. Failure to provide such documentation when required will result in lost consideration.

Additional information

  • Mobility: Individuals selected for Senior Executive Service positions may be subject to reassignment across geographical, organizational, and functional lines.
  • Relocation expenses: Payment of relocation expenses may be authorized in accordance with agency policy.
  • Financial Disclosure: This position is covered under the Ethics in Government Act, which requires comprehensive financial disclosures from employees. The appointee will be required to file a Public Financial Disclosure Report (OGE-278) within 30 days of their appointment, annually thereafter and upon termination of Federal Government employment.
  • Qualifications approval and probationary period: Persons newly selected for career appointments within the Senior Executive Service must have their executive core qualifications approved by an Office of Personnel Management Qualifications Review Board and will be required to serve a one-year probationary period.
  • Veterans' Preference: Veterans' preference is not applicable to positions in the Senior Executive Service.
  • The Office of Personnel management (OPM) must authorize employment offers made to current or former political appointees. If you are currently, or have been within the last 5 years, a political Schedule A, Schedule C, Non-career SES or Presidential Appointee employee in the Executive Branch, you must disclose this information to the Human Resources Office.
NIST strives to build a flexible and encouraging work environment to bring out the best in our employees. To help our employees balance responsibilities at home and at work, NIST offers a variety of work-life flexibilities such as:
  • Telework
  • Flexible work schedules
  • Paid parental leave
  • Paid vacation
  • Sick leave
  • Family-friendly leave
  • Child and elder-care resources
  • On-site childcare center
  • Lactation spaces
  • Wellness programs
  • Fitness center
  • Employee assistance programs

To learn more about NIST, visit NIST's channel on YouTube.

Benefits

A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.

Review our benefits

Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.

How You Will Be Evaluated

You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.

All applicants will be evaluated by an Executive Resources Board (ERB) rating panel of senior managers to determine the degree to which they possess the executive core and professional/technical qualifications, and best qualified candidates may undergo an interview and a reference check. The ERB rating panel will make recommendations on best qualified candidates to the appointing authority. Applicants will be evaluated on the quality and extent of their total accomplishments, experience, the ECQs, and the PTQs.

Unless you have already been certified by a Qualifications Review Board (QRB) in the past, your ECQs must be certified by a QRB after selection and before appointment can occur.

Required Documents

In addition to your online application, the following documents must be submitted and received by 11:59 p.m. Eastern Standard Time (EST) on 01/21/2025:

1. Resume (uploaded as attachment or USAJOBS resume created with USAJOBS Resume Builder). You must submit a resume which provides evidence of how you possess the five Executive Core Qualifications (ECQs) and the three Professional Technical Qualifications (PTQs) listed in the announcement in one document. We recommend that your resume emphasize your level of responsibilities, the scope and complexity of programs managed, and your program accomplishments, including the results of your actions. YOUR RESUME MUST NOT EXCEED FIVE PAGES. Any information submitted in excess of five (5) pages WILL NOT be considered.

2. SF-50 - For current Senior Executives or individuals with SES reinstatement eligibility: You are encouraged to submit your most recent SF-50 (Notification of Personnel Action) that documents your career appointment status in the SES. For current Federal employees: You are encouraged to submit your most recent SF-50 (Notification of Personnel Action) that documents your current tenure, position title, series and grade level. Award SF-50s will not be considered.

3. Certification - For SES Candidate Development Program (SESCDP) Graduates: You must submit your SESCDP OPM-Certification documentation.

4. Political Appointee - OPM must authorize employment offers for former or current Political Appointees. If you are currently, or have been within the last 5 years, a political Schedule A, Schedule C or Non-Career SES employee in the Executive Branch, you must disclose this information. Submit proof of your former or current status, such as your SF-50.

5. Transcripts - This position has an education requirement. You must submit a copy of your unofficial transcripts to provide proof that you meet the education requirement listed in the announcement. See the Education section for more details.

Applicants who fail to submit requested documents WILL NOT receive consideration for this position and your application will receive an "incomplete" rating. If you are unable to upload documents or you do not have access to the internet, please contact Amy Laughter at amy.laughter@nist.gov.

Do not submit any additional information that is not required: Extraneous materials such as award certificates will not be considered.

How to Apply

Click 'Apply' and we'll walk you through a four-step process on how to attach a resume and any required documents. While working an application, you may review, edit, delete and update information. We'll automatically save progress made as you go, so any changes won't be lost.

Application Tips

Need Help?

- If experiencing any difficulties with the online application process (anything after you have clicked the 'Apply Online' button): please contact the Agency Contact listed on this announcement between normal business hours (8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. ET). If receiving any kind of error message, please be ready to provide a screenshot or at a minimum, the error message text and number. If necessary, we will provide you with a technical support number for further assistance.

- If having trouble with USAJOBS (searching for jobs, account password/profile issues, or Resume Builder): please visit the USAJOBS Resource Center. We regret that we are unable to support any issues with USAJOBS, as this service is not maintained by the NIST.

Your application and all supporting documents must be received by 11:59 pm Eastern Standard Time (EST) on 01/21/2025. Applicants applying on-line for this position will be able to apply until 11:59 pm Eastern Standard Time (EST) on 01/21/2025. Please allow adequate time to complete your application.

It is suggested that you do not wait until the last day to apply for a vacancy announcement. We will not accept applications other than those submitted through USAJOBS. As the applicant, it is your responsibility to verify that information entered, uploaded, and submitted is received and is accurate. See "Required Documents" section for what is considered a complete application package.

The Department of Commerce provides reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application and hiring process, please notify Amy Laughter, the servicing Human Resources Specialist, by e-mail at amy.laughter@nist.gov. The decision on granting reasonable accommodation will be on a case-by-case basis. TTY users may contact us via the Federal Relay Service, 1-800-877-8339.

Agency contact information

Amy Laughter
Address
Associate Director for Laboratory Programs
100 Bureau Drive
Building 227/Room A309
Mail Stop 8300
Gaithersburg, MD 20899
US
Learn more about this agency

Next steps

Applicants can check the status of their application at any time after the announcement closes by accessing the USAJOBS website.
To verify the status of your application, log into your USAJOBS account (https://my.usajobs.gov/Account/Login), all of your applications will appear on the Welcome screen. The Application Status will appear along with the date your application was last updated. For information on what each Application Status means, visit: https://www.usajobs.gov/Help/how-to/application/status/.

We will update applicant statuses when:

- A qualification determination is made. If found not qualified/eligible, no additional updates will be provided.
- Applications are referred to an interview panel and/or the selecting official.
- A selection decision has been made.

Please notify us if your contact information changes after the closing date of the announcement. Also, note that if you provide an email address that is inaccurate or if your mailbox is full or blocked (e.g., spam-blocker), you may not receive important communication that could affect your consideration for this position.


Note: We cannot accept applications on behalf of Federal Agencies. Application instructions are listed within the Job Description.


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