Summary

The Engineering Laboratory (EL) promotes U.S. innovation and industrial competitiveness by advancing measurement science, standards, and technology for engineered systems in ways that enhance economic security and improve quality of life. The Engineering Technician provides essential technical support to various research projects conducted within the Division's laboratories by utilizing advanced precision research apparatuses and sophisticated measurement devices.

This job is open to

The public

U.S. Citizens, Nationals or those who owe allegiance to the U.S.

Federal employees - Competitive service

Current federal employees whose agencies follow the U.S. Office of Personnel Management's hiring rules and pay scales.

Career transition (CTAP, ICTAP, RPL)

Federal employees whose job, agency or department was eliminated and are eligible for priority over other applicants.

Veterans

Veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces or a spouse, widow, widower or parent of a veteran, who may be eligible for derived preference

Military spouses

Military spouses of active duty service members or whose spouse is 100 percent disabled or died on active duty.

Individuals with disabilities

Individuals who are eligible under Schedule A.

Peace Corps & AmeriCorps Vista

Individuals who have served at least 2 years with the Peace Corps or 1 year with AmeriCorps VISTA.

Clarification from the agency

U.S. Citizens and Status Candidates (this includes Merit Promotion, Status Candidates, Former Overseas Employees, CTAP, ICTAP, VRA, VEOA, 30% or More Disabled, EVHO, Schedule A, Military Spouses, Americorps, Peace Corps, Vista, Interchange Agreement Eligibles, and National Guard).

Duties

ZT-III: The Engineering Technician employs a variety of complex precision research apparatuses and measurement devices in
consultation with scientists and engineers that advance the measurement of material properties.

Helps design and improve research plans to study how materials break down when exposed to heat, humidity, and UV light.
Collects and analyzes data for several projects at once.
Follows existing data rules or creates new ones when a project needs a unique approach.
Researches new equipment, writes technical specs for purchases, and manages service contracts.

ZT-IV: The Engineering Technician provides essential technical support to various research projects conducted within the Division's laboratories by utilizing advanced precision research apparatuses and sophisticated measurement devices, in close collaboration with researchers.

Contributes technical expertise to the development, evaluation, and refinement of research plans and experimental testing procedures, focused on advancing the understanding and measurement of material properties and material degradation mechanisms over time when exposed to environmental stressors including UV, temperature and RH.
Manages data collection and analysis for multiple research projects, following lead researcher-identified protocols or creating new data collection protocols for specific project needs.
Oversees assigned laboratory spaces and equipment to ensure a safe, high-efficiency environment that streamlines the execution of experimental projects.
Performs administrative tasks to prepare procurement packages, service agreements, and credit card purchases to effectively maintain laboratory operations. This includes conducting in-depth market research to establish technical specifications for acquisition of new laboratory equipment and ensure effective acquisition by serving as Technical Point of Contact or Contracting Officer Representative (COR-Level1) during procurement phase.
Plays a lead role in safety by identifying hazards and unsafe practices across all current and proposed laboratory activities during execution of experimental projects. Develops clear and concise Hazard Review (HR) documentation to proactively evaluate and eliminate potential risks.

Requirements

Conditions of employment

U.S. citizenship
Males born after 12-31-59 must be registered for Selective Service
Suitable for Federal employment
Must meet time-in-grade/band requirements, as applicable
Satisfactory completion of a pre-employment medical examination
Bargaining Unit Position: No

Qualifications

To qualify at the ZT-III Level: Applicants must have at least 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 includes conducting high-energy weathering experiments (SPHERE) and characterizing material degradation via advanced spectroscopy (FTIR, Raman, NMR, UV/Vis), microscopy (SEM, Confocal), and synchrotron-based techniques. This includes the design, troubleshooting, and repair of laboratory prototypes-incorporating precision soldering and circuit maintenance-alongside the development of computer-based automation and data analysis pipelines using Python, LabTalk, and Origin. Furthermore, it involves the expert operation of specialized software (OPUS, OMNIC, TESCAN), the execution of carbon/sulfur combustion analysis (LECO CS744) including preventative maintenance, and the synthesis of complex datasets for technical reporting.

OR

Two full years of graduate education in a directly related field.

OR

Master's degree in a directly related field.

OR

A combination of education in a directly related field and specialized experience.

To qualify at the ZT-IV Level: Applicants must have 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 includes leading research milestones and co-authoring technical publications while executing high-energy weathering experiments (SPHERE) and characterizing material degradation via advanced spectroscopy (FTIR, Raman, NMR, UV/Vis), microscopy (SEM, Confocal), and synchrotron-based techniques. This role involves the high-level design, troubleshooting, and repair of laboratory prototypes-incorporating precision soldering and circuit maintenance-alongside developing computer-based automation and data analysis pipelines using Python, LabTalk, and Origin. Furthermore, it requires the expert operation of specialized software (OPUS, OMNIC, TESCAN), the execution of carbon/sulfur combustion analysis (LECO CS744), and the synthesis of complex datasets for formal technical presentations to scientific audiences.

Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) 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:
Section 14: Reconsideration of Qualification Determinations | NIST

Education

This position allows applicants to qualify with education. 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 before a final offer of employment.

Use of foreign education for qualifications. An accredited organization must evaluate education completed outside of the U.S. 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.

Additional information

This position is covered under NIST's Alternative Personnel Management System (APMS), a pay-for-performance system with excellent HR flexibilities to help NIST recruit and retain top talent. Learn more about the APMS here!

We may share your application package with other selecting officials. Additional selections may be made through this vacancy.
Click all links in this vacancy announcement to view additional information or instructions.
You MUST select at least ONE ELIGIBILITY to be considered for this position.
All documents submitted for this announcement must be legible to make qualification or eligibility determinations.
A probationary period may be required.

This position has physical requirements which include but may not be limited to:
Moderate lifting, 15-44 pounds
Light lifting, under 15 pounds
Moderate carrying, 45 pounds and over
Light carrying, under 15 pounds
Reaching above shoulder
Use of fingers
Both hands required
Walking 2 hours
Standing 4 hours
Kneeling 1 hour
Repeated bending 2 hours
Climbing, use of legs and arms
Both legs required
Operation of crane, truck, tractor, or motor vehicle
Ability for rapid mental and muscular coordination simultaneously
Both eyes required
Depth perception
Ability to distinguish shades of colors
Hearing (aid may be permitted)
Hearing without aid

This position has environmental factors which include but may not be limited to:
Outside
Outside and inside
Constant noise
Dust
Solvents (degreasing agents)
Grease and oils
Slippery or uneven walking surfaces
Working around machinery with moving parts
Working around moving objects or vehicles
Working on ladders or scaffolding
Working below ground
Working with hands in water
Working closely with others
Working alone

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. For more information, please visit our Careers website.

Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.

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.

Please prepare a resume that is no longer than two pages; only the first two pages will be considered during the review process. Ensure your font is 11 points or larger and upload your resume as a .pdf document. This helps ensure your formatting looks exactly the way you intended.

How you will be evaluated: You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above. Once the announcement has closed, a review of your resume and supporting documentation will be used to determine whether you meet the eligibility and qualification requirements listed in this announcement. Overstating your qualifications and/or experience in your application materials or application questionnaire may result in your removal from consideration.

Rating: Applications will be assessed on the following competencies:
Attention to detail
Chemistry
Technical Competence
Mathematical Reasoning

Structured Resume Review. Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) will review your resume to determine your technical qualifications for this position based on the required specialized experience. SMEs will review ONLY two (2) pages of your resume. SMEs will not review additional information beyond your resume. Applicants passing the structured resume review will move to the next phase of the assessment process.

Referral: Qualified candidates are referred to a selecting official for consideration. You may be required to participate in a selection interview. You will be referred depending upon your eligibility (i.e., Merit candidate, veterans preference, etc). Please review the Section 8: Hiring Paths at NIST | NIST on how applicants are review and referred based upon how they wish to be considered for the position.

CTAP or ICTAP eligibility: If you are a displaced or surplus Federal employee eligible for the Career Transition Assistance Plan (CTAP) or Interagency Career Transition Assistance Plan (ICTAP), you must be determined eligible and rated as well-qualified to receive special selection priority. "Well Qualified" means that in addition to meeting the minimum qualification requirements and selective placement factor(s), if applicable, you must receive a score of 85 or higher. Please review the following site regarding required documents to support CTAP or ICTAP eligibility and additional information regarding this authority - Section 8: Hiring Paths at NIST | NIST

Required Documents

The documents required vary based on how you're applying (i.e., as a veteran or disabled veteran, current or former Federal employee, etc.). Please review the Required Documents for this position to find out if there are any documents required with your application. Failure to submit required documents, based upon how you apply, may result in loss of consideration due to an incomplete application package.

A complete application includes: 1) A resume (not to exceed two pages), 2) vacancy question responses regarding technical qualifications, and 3) submission of any required documents. Please note that if you do not provide all required information, as specified in this announcement, or if the documents submitted are illegible you may not be considered for this position (or may not receive the special consideration for which you may be eligible).

Resume: All applicants must submit a resume by creating one in USAJOBS or uploading one of their choosing. Please prepare a resume no longer than 2 pages; only the first 2 pages will be considered during the review process. Ensure your font is 11 points or larger and upload your resume as a .pdf document. This helps ensure your formatting looks exactly the way you intended. Cover letters are optional. To receive any credit for relevant experience, please list the month/year and the number of hours worked for experience listed on your resume. We suggest you review the qualification requirements for this position as you may need to customize your resume to ensure that it supports the position qualifications. Please refer to the Resume Guidance on how to build an effective resume.

Reinstatement: If you are a former federal employee (separated from Federal service for at least 1 year) and wish to be non-competitively reinstated for a higher grade or full performance level than which you left federal employment, you MUST provide a copy of your separation SF-50 (the "position occupied" block on the SF-50 should show a "1" and your "tenure" block should show a "1" or "2") AND the last performance appraisal you received from your federal employment which shows at least a fully successful rating.

If you are relying on your education to meet qualification requirements:

Education must be accredited by an accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education in order for it to be credited towards qualifications. Therefore, provide only the attendance and/or degrees from schools accredited by accrediting institutions recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

Failure to provide all of the required information as stated in this vacancy announcement may result in an ineligible rating or may affect the overall rating.

How to Apply

Click 'Apply' and we'll walk you through a multi-step process to attach a resume and any required documents. While working an application, you may review, edit, delete and update information. You must complete the online application process and submit any required documents by 11:59 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, the closing date of the announcement.
Once your application has been submitted, you will receive a confirmation notification by email. The Human Resources Office will evaluate your application to determine your eligibility for the position. After the evaluation is complete, you will receive another notification regarding the status of your application.

Need help applying?

If you are 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 regular business hours (8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. ET). If you receive any kind of error message, please be ready to provide a screenshot or, at a minimum, the error message text and number. We will provide you with a technical support number for further assistance if necessary.
If you are having trouble with USAJOBS (searching for jobs, account password/profile issues, or Resume Builder), please visit the USAJOBS USAJOBS Help Center - How to... We regret that we are unable to support any issues with USAJOBS, as this service is not maintained by the NIST.
If you are experiencing a significant hardship that hinders your ability to apply online, please contact the Agency Contact listed on this announcement prior to the vacancy closing date and during regular business hours to discuss your situation.

Agency contact information

Audrey Zimmerman

Phone: 301-975-4926
Email: audrey.terry@nist.gov

Address: Materials and Structural Systems Division
100 Bureau Drive
Gaithersburg, MD 20899
US

Next steps

To verify the status of your application, log into your USAJOBS account. 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: USAJOBS Help Center - How to see your application and job 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 the selecting official.
A selection decision has been made.

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

Engineering Technician (Materials Research) Job in Gaithersburg, MD