HEALTH PHYSICIST Job in Kirtland AFB, NM

Vacancy No. DTRA-26-13007840-DH Department Defense Threat Reduction Agency
Salary $127,141.00 to $165,288.00 Grade 14 to 14
Perm/Temp Permanent FT/PT Full-time
Open Date 7/15/2026 Close Date 8/4/2026
Job Link Apply Online Who may apply Public
Locations:
Kirtland AFB, NM


HEALTH PHYSICIST

Department of Defense
Defense Threat Reduction Agency

Summary

This position is being filled under the memorandum from the Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness (USD(P&R)) "Expansion of Direct Hire Authority for Certain Personnel of the Department of Defense," dated August 12,2024.

This position is part of the Defense Threat Reduction Agency.

This job is open to

The public

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

Military spouses

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

National Guard and reserves

Current members, those who want to join or transitioning military members.

Clarification from the agency

This announcement is open to All U.S. Citizens, and is being filled under the Direct Hire Authority (DHA) for Certain Personnel of the Department of Defense. Appointment of Military Spouses (5 CFR 315.612)(NonComp Mil Sp), Appointment of Department of Defense Civilian Employee Spouses, Priority Placement Program (PPP) Retained Grade Preference (RGP), and PPP Military Reserve and National Guard Technician eligibles may also apply.

Duties

As a HEALTH PHYSICIST at the GS-1306-14 some of your typical work assignments may include:

  • Serves as Subject Matter Expert (SME) in Health Physics (HP) by providing HP information and advice, and ensuring the protection of personnel from unwarranted exposure to ionizing radiation. Coordinates HP activities for the department to include: maintaining the department radiological occupational health program; establishing procedures to identify personnel requiring pre-placement, periodic, and termination medical examinations; and participating in formulating occupational health examination requirements for workers at risk for hazardous exposures. Recommends new or revised instructions, manuals, and technical documents required to support/document the HP Program. Maintains professional currency by reading technical literature and attending professional meetings.
  • Serves as the RD-TS Radiation Safety Officer (RSO). Manages the department Radiation Safety Program to ensure compliance with all federal, state, and host installation laws and regulations. Provides oversight of radiation safety at all RD-TS fixed and mobile test sites. Develops the Health and Safety Plan for RD-TS tests utilizing radiological or nuclear material. Conducts and documents dose rate measurements of radioactive material use and storage areas; performs a physical inventory of radioactive sources; and performs leak tests on all required sources based on DTRA NRC license requirements. Makes recommendations to senior leadership, in normal operations, on how to accomplish the mission with the least amount of human radiation dose and the minimum financial impact on the organization. Submits requests for the purchase/acquisition of radioactive material to the DTRA RSO; coordinates the purchase/acquisition, shipment, and transfer of radioactive material; and ensures adherence to prescribed safety standards by inspecting all procedures used to handle, ship, store, or dispose of nuclear components. Provides local oversight for the Agency's broad scope radiologic license. Performs technical and administrative audits to ensure compliance with Federal regulations and Air Force host installation requirements. Responds to radiologic inventory Intrusion Detection System (IDS) alarms. Conducts periodic leak sampling; maintains the sampling equipment; and maintains documentation as required by the license and the DTRA RSO. Trains and documents local users of radioactive material in accordance with DTRA broad scope radioactive license and industry standard radioactive safety procedures. Oversees and ensures compliance with all requirements to process, ship, receive Class 7 Radioactive Material.
  • Radiation Dosimetry program manager to include reviewing and maintaining all radiation dosimetry records. Institutes procedures to ensure radiation exposures ALARA for any radioactive material use.
  • Serves as a Test Team Safety Officer for testing on KAFB and at the Nevada National Security Site (NNSS) involving radiation sources. Coordinates test requirements and plans with other test team members. Ensures all safety regulatory requirements are met by reviewing documents for approval and providing oversight of test performers. Recommends radiological controls and requirements for each specific research and test event. Reviews potential test programs and recommends whether DTRA can conduct the test event, and what limitations exist or are required.
  • Serves as Laser Safety Officer for testing and ensures all laser safety protocols are met. Coordinates test requirements and plans with other test team members. Recommend laser controls and requirements for each specific research and test event. Reviews potential test programs and recommends whether DTRA can conduct the test event, and identifies limitations, if applicable.

Requirements

Conditions of employment

  • Must be a U.S. Citizen
  • Occasional Travel: Travel in the performance of temporary assignments may be required up to 20% of duty time per year (CONUS/OCONUS). Incumbent must comply with each Combatant Command (COCOM) travel medical requirement to include vaccinations
  • Work Schedule: Full-time
  • Males born after 12-31-59 must be registered for Selective Service
  • Suitable for Federal employment, determined by a background investigation
  • May be required to successfully complete a probationary period
  • Overtime: 10%
  • Tour of Duty: Flexible
  • Recruitment Incentives: May be authorized if funds available and with approval from hiring manager
  • Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA): Exempt
  • Financial Disclosure: Incumbent is required to submit a Confidential Financial Disclosure Form, OGE 450, within 30 days of entering the position, annually and upon termination of employment
  • Telework Eligibility: This position is an in-person position at facilities located at Kirtland AFB, NM. This position may be eligible for limited, situational telework subject to supervisory approval and not to exceed current Agency guidelines.
  • Must be able to acquire and retain Top Secret Clearance eligibility with Sensitive Compartmented Information access, based upon a Single Scoped Background Investigation.
  • Position requires access to Critical Nuclear Weapon Design Information (CNWDI)/ Restricted Data (RD)
  • This position is designated as a Testing Designated Position (TDP) under the civilian drug-testing program. The incumbent is to (a) refrain from the use of illegal drugs and (b) if required, submit to urinalysis testing.
  • A valid driver's license is required, and must be able to obtain and maintain a current valid passport
  • May be recalled to duty 24-hrs a day during other than normal duty hours to include evenings, weekends, and holidays; may be required to work other than normal duty hours, which may include evenings, weekends, and holidays
  • Must maintain necessary training to preserve proficiency in job related qualifications, i.e., cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), First Aid, Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response (HAZWOPER) and Permit Required Confined Space
  • Must be able to perform physical exertion, e.g., long periods of standing, and walking over rough, uneven terrain and rocky surfaces. May carry moderately heavy items such as field gear, computer components and similar items
  • Please see "Additional Information" below for further conditions of employment

Qualifications

You may qualify at the GS-14, if you fulfill the following qualifications:

One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-13 grade level in the Federal service as listed below:

  • Administer broad scope Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) licenses, which includes overseeing the acquisition, secure storage, leak testing, transportation, and disposal of radioactive materials;
  • Formulate agency-wide health and safety plans, developing standard operating procedures, and creating comprehensive radiation safety training programs for a diverse technical workforce;
  • Direct comprehensive Radiation Safety Programs (RSP) and Quality Assurance Programs (QAP) across multiple geographically dispersed sites to ensure strict adherence to NRC, Department of Transportation (DoT), and Department of War (DoW) regulations;
  • Serve as a primary Subject Matter Expert (SME) providing strategic counsel, policy recommendations, and technical solutions to senior leadership regarding complex nuclear, radioactive, and laser safety issues, and;
  • Act as Test Team and Laser Safety Officer with the definitive authority to oversee safety protocols, investigate radiological mishaps, direct emergency responses, and halt operations to protect personnel and the public
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.

In addition to meeting qualifications, your application package must reflect the applicable experience to meet the Individual Occupational Requirements for the 1306, series as listed below:
A. Degree: natural science or engineering that included at least 30 semester hours in health physics, engineering, radiological science, chemistry, physics, biology, mathematics, and/or calculus. (Must provide transcripts; unofficial are permitted)
B. Combination of education and experience -- courses as shown in A above, plus appropriate experience or other education; or certification as a health physicist by the American Board of Health Physics, plus appropriate experience and other education that provided an understanding of sciences applicable to health physics comparable to that described in paragraph A. (Must provide transcripts and experience clearly demonstrated in resume)

Education

Substitution of education may not be used in lieu of specialized experience for this grade level.

ARE YOU USING YOUR EDUCATION TO QUALIFY? You MUST provide transcripts or other documentation to support your educational claims.

All materials must be submitted by the closing date of the announcement.

GRADUATE EDUCATION: One academic year of graduate education is considered to be the number of credits hours that your graduate school has determined to represent one academic year of full-time study. Such study may have been performed on a full-time or part-time basis. If you cannot obtain your graduate school's definition of one year of graduate study, 18 semester hours (or 27 quarter hours) should be considered as satisfying the requirement for one year of full-time graduate study.

FOREIGN EDUCATION: If you are using education completed in foreign colleges or universities to meet the qualification requirements, you must show that the education credentials have been evaluated by a private organization that specializes in interpretation of foreign education programs and such education has been deemed equivalent to that gained in an accredited U.S. education program; or full credit has been given for the courses at a U.S. accredited college or university. For further information, visit: https://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ous/international/usnei/us/edlite-visitus-forrecog.html

Additional information

Conditions of Employment, Cont:

  • Position may require certification in the Nuclear Personnel Reliability Program (NPRP). IAW DoDI 5210.42, Department of Defense Nuclear Weapons Personnel Reliability Program, the incumbent is required to submit for a mental health evaluation and other health standards.
  • This position may require the incumbent to be exposed to ionizing radiation. Radiation monitoring may be required IAW DoDI 6055.08 Occupational Ionizing Radiation Protection Program to ensure compliance.

RE-EMPLOYED ANNUITANT: This position DOES NOT meet criteria for re-employed annuitant. The DoD criteria for hiring Re-employed Annuitants can be found at: https://www.esd.whs.mil/Portals/54/Documents/DD/issuances/140025/140025_vol300.PDF?ver=LQ7feWw-8-5DI2tceUpmgA%3d%3d

All applicants must meet qualifications and eligibility criteria by the closing date of the announcement.

This position is subject to an initial drug screening, and random testing thereafter. A negative drug test result must be received by HR within 30 calendar days after the EOD (i.e., start date). The selectee's inability successfully pass; or refusal to conduct the test may result in: 1) the tentative or FJO being withdrawn during the recruitment process; or 2) subsequently being removed from Federal service for failure to meet a condition of employment.
You may be required to sign a "Drug Test Statement of Understanding" if you are selected for this position.

Priority Placement Program (PPP) DoD Retained Grade Preference (RGP): In order to receive this preference, you must choose to apply using the "Priority Placement Program, DoD Retained Grade Preference (RGP)" eligibility. If you are claiming RGP and are determined to be Well Qualified (score of 85 or above) for the position, you will be referred to the hiring manager as a priority applicant. Information and required documentation for claiming MSP may be found at the General Applicant Information and Definitions link below. To be eligible as a RGP, you must submit the following supporting documents with your application package: a signed Retained Grade PPP Self-Certification Checklist (DD3145-1 (whs.mil)); a copy of your Notification of Personnel Action (SF-50) effecting the placement in retained grade status; or a copy of the notification letter you received regarding the RIF or classification downgrade.

Males born after 12-31-59 must be registered or exempt from Selective Service (see Who Needs to Register | Selective Service System : Selective Service System (sss.gov))

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.

We will review your resume and supporting documents, to ensure you meet the basic qualification requirements. We will evaluate each applicant who meets the basic qualifications on the information provided and evaluate your relevant work experiences as it relates to fundamental competencies, identified below, required for this position.

Traditional rating and ranking of applications does not apply to this vacancy. Your application (resume and supporting documentation) will be evaluated to determine if you meet the minimum qualifications required as listed on the announcement under qualification requirements.

Veterans Preference: If you are entitled to veterans preference, you should indicate the type of veterans' preference you are claiming on your resume. Your veterans' preference entitlement will be verified by the employing agency.

For information on entitlement see http://www.fedshirevets.gov/job/vetpref/index.aspx

Appointment of Military Spouses (5 CFR 315.612) (NonComp Mil Sp): To receive this preference, you must choose to apply using the " Appointment of Military Spouses (5 CFR 315.612) (NonComp Mil Sp)" eligibility. If you are claiming Military Spouse eligibility and are determined to be Well Qualified (score of 85 or above) for the position, you will be referred to the hiring manager. Information and required documentation for claiming Military Spouse eligibility may be found at the General Applicant Information and Definitions link below.

Required Documents

The documents you are required to submit vary based on the authority you are using to apply (i.e., applying as a veteran, applying as a current permanent Federal employee, applying as a reinstatement, etc.). Your complete application includes your COMPLETE resume, your responses to the online questionnaire, and documents which prove your eligibility to apply. If you fail to provide these documents, you will be marked as having an incomplete application package and you will not be considered any further.

The following documents are REQUIRED


1. Your resume:

  • IMPORTANT UPDATE: Your resume must not exceed two (2) pages. If your resume exceeds the two-page limit, you will be removed from consideration for this announcement. The resume and required supporting documentation should provide the minimum qualifications and relevant experience for the announced position. Must include the work schedule, hours worked per week, dates of employment, and duties performed. If multiple resumes are submitted by an applicant, only the last resume submitted will be reviewed for qualifications and referred for selection consideration, if eligible. The resume must not be more than 5MB and should be saved and uploaded as a PDF to maintain formatting and number of pages. We also accept GIF, JPG, JPEG, PNG, RTF, TXT, PDF, ODT or Word (DOC or DOCX). We do not accept PDF portfolio files. Page margins should be 0.5 inches, and font styles must be legible. Consider using 14-point size font for titles and 10-point for the main text. We recommend using a font like Lato, if available. Other widely available options are Calibri, Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, Open San Source Sans Pro, Roboto or Noro Sans.
  • Additional guidance on writing a federal resume can be found at: USAJOBS Help Center - How do I write a resume for a federal job? The resume builder can help you create a resume using these recommendations and uses the information in your USAJOBS profile to help you get started.
2. Transcripts:
  • This position has a degree or education requirement so you are required to submit a copy of your transcript. We accept unofficial transcripts, as long as they contain your name, the name of the school, the date and degree that was awarded, and the list of classes and credits earned.
3. SF50
  • All current and former civilian Federal employees must submit a copy of your MOST RECENT SF50 (Notification of Personnel Action) showing your tenure, grade and step, salary, and type of position occupied (i.e., Excepted or Competitive); or similar Notification of Personnel Action documentation, i.e., Transcript of Service, Form 1150, etc.
4. Veteran's Documents:
  • If applying using veteran's preference or under a Veteran's hiring authority you must submit the following documents: DD214 showing character of service, SF-15 Form and VA letter showing final percentage, or certification of expected discharge or release from active duty.
PLEASE REVIEW THE BELOW LINK FOR OTHER SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS needed for proof of eligibility:
https://www.dla.mil/Portals/104/Documents/Careers/downloads/DODCustomersRequiredSupportingDocumentation.pdf?

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 for this position, you must complete the online application and submit the documentation specified in the Required Documents section below.

The complete application package must be submitted by 11:59 PM (EST) on the closing date to receive consideration.

  • To begin, click Apply Online to access an online application. Follow the prompts to select your USAJOBS resume and/or other supporting documents. You will need to be logged into your USAJOBS account or you may need to create a new account.
  • You will be taken to an online application. Complete the online application, verify the required documentation, and submit the application. NOTE: Resumes up to a total of two pages will be accepted. Resumes exceeding two pages will be removed from consideration.
  • You will receive an email notification when your application has been received for the announcement.
  • To verify the status of your application, log into your USAJOBS account, https://www.usajobs.gov, select the Application Status link and then select the More Information link for this position. The Application Status page will display the status of your application, the documentation received and processed, and your responses submitted to the online application. Your uploaded documents may take several hours to clear the virus scan process.
To preview the questionnaire, please go to https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/13007840

Please review the General Application Information and Definitions at:
https://www.dla.mil/Portals/104/Documents/Careers/downloads/DoDGenAppInfo%2012-1-2020.pdf?ver=ECNbdsHtGilTd3OENN4A0Q%3d%3d

As required by 5 C.F.R. § 302.106., DLA will provide Section 508 conformant ICT to employees with disabilities. All ICT interfaces with the public related to vacancy announcements and career transition opportunities must conform to the applicable requirements in the current ICT Standards and Guidelines (36 C.F.R. § 1194).

Agency contact information

DTRA Servicing Team
Phone
614-693-0259
Fax
(215) 516-6068
Email
DHRC-DDTRAHR@dla.mil
Address
Defense Threat Reduction Agency
8725 JOHN J KINGMAN ROAD
MSC 6201
FT BELVOIR, VA 22060-6201
US

Next steps

A list of qualified applicants will be created and sent to the selecting official. All applicants reviewed and/or referred will receive a notification letter.

The selecting official may choose to conduct interviews, and once the selection is made, you will receive a notification of the decision.

REGARDING INTERVIEWS: Interviews may be required for this position. Accommodations may be made to conduct telephonic interviews to preclude travel hardships for applicants.

NOTE: Declining to be interviewed or failure to report for a scheduled interview will be considered as a declination for further consideration for employment against this vacancy.

This announcement may be used to fill additional vacancies.

Defense Threat Reduction Agency

The Defense Threat Reduction Agency provides cross-cutting solutions to enable the DoD, the United States Government, and international partners to DETER strategic attack against the United States and its allies; PREVENT, reduce, and counter Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) and emerging threats; and PREVAIL against WMD-armed adversaries in crisis and conflict.

Agency contact information

DTRA Servicing Team
Phone
614-693-0259
Fax
(215) 516-6068
Email
DHRC-DDTRAHR@dla.mil
Address
Defense Threat Reduction Agency
8725 JOHN J KINGMAN ROAD
MSC 6201
FT BELVOIR, VA 22060-6201
US

Visit our careers page

Learn more about what it's like to work at Defense Threat Reduction Agency, what the agency does, and about the types of careers this agency offers.

http://www.dtra.mil/About.aspx