Summary

NSA is in search of analysts with a computer science background to solve complex problems, test innovative approaches and research new solutions. We are looking for you to apply your computer science expertise to develop cryptanalytic capabilities and techniques to exploit cryptographic systems. Help protect national security interests as part of the world's most advanced team of computer science and cryptanalytic professionals!

This job is open to

The public

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

Duties

The NSA must maintain and develop a highly skilled workforce. The NSA/CSS Cryptanalysis Development Program (CADP) is designed to produce professional cryptanalysts through an intensive, structured program of formal training courses and varied work assignments. The CADP is a three-year development program where participants complete five (5) tours of duty in cryptanalytic offices, attend seven (7) required courses, and choose at least three (3) elective courses. After completion, they are then placed in a technical mission office to use their cryptanalytic skills.

Cryptanalysts at the NSA monitor and detect problems in data flow or collection to ensure collection quality. They analyze garbled intercepts by using processing skills and techniques, conduct analysis of signals and/or cryptographic data, and use that knowledge to diagnose and exploit encrypted material. They also debug and test software programs.

The selected individual will work in a dynamic environment with duties that can include the following:
- Analyzing data of various types
- Formulating questions and hypotheses about the data
- Testing hypotheses, usually via computer programs
- Drawing conclusions from test results

PLEASE NOTE: A copy of unofficial transcripts for all college courses must be submitted with the application in order for the application to be fully considered.

Requirements

Conditions of Employment

Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a security background investigation and polygraph.

Qualifications

The qualifications listed are the minimum acceptable to be considered for the position.

Degree in Mathematics, Engineering, or Computer Science, Data Science, Statistics, or related degree is required.

Relevant experience (as applicable to the Full Performance level) must include one or more of the following: cryptanalysis; programming (analytic or scientific); engineering (electrical or computer); research; mathematics; statistics; communications technologies; or analysis of data or patterns. Experience may also include providing formal instruction (college level or above) in any of the above.

ENTRY/DEVELOPMENTAL
Entry is with a Bachelor's degree and no experience.

FULL PERFORMANCE
Entry is with a Bachelor's degree plus 3 years of relevant experience, or a Master's degree plus 1 year of relevant experience, or a Doctoral degree and no experience.

Education

Additional information

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: $86,498 - $151,570 (Entry/Developmental, Full Performance) Salary range varies by location, work level and relevant experience to the position. This position is hiring for Maryland.

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).

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.

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.

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.

The ideal candidate is someone with a desire for continual learning and strong problem-solving, analytic, and interpersonal skills who is:
- Flexible
- Curious
- Persistent
- Able to communicate effectively, orally and in writing
- Able to collaborate with others
- Likes challenging puzzles

Specialized skills and experience in any of the following is beneficial:
- Programming (low level, high level, parallel)
- Software engineering
- Hardware engineering
- Computational science
- Algorithm analysis and design
- Reverse engineering

Required Documents

The National Security Agency (NSA) is part of the DoD Intelligence Community Defense Civilian Intelligence Personnel System (DCIPS). All positions in the NSA are in the Excepted Services under 10 United States Codes (USC) 1601 appointment authority. DoD Components with DCIPS positions apply Veterans' Preference to eligible candidates as defined by Section 2108 of Title 5 USC, in accordance with the procedures provided in DoD Instruction 1400.25, Volume 2005, DCIPS Employment and Placement. If you are a veteran claiming veterans' preference, as defined by Section 2108 of Title 5 U.S.C., you may be asked to submit documents verifying your eligibility.

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

To apply, please visit: https://apply.intelligencecareers.gov/job-description/1247292

Agency contact information

NSA POC

Phone: 1-844-424-4737
Email: intelcareers@nsa.gov
Address: NSA External Hiring
9800 Savage Road
Fort Meade, MD 20755
US

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