Physical Scientist/Mathematician

Department of Energy Headquarters • Germantown, MD

7d • Hybrid

About The Position

This position is part of the Office of Science – Headquarters at the U.S. Department of Energy. The Physical Scientist/Mathematician delivers advanced scientific intelligence (SI) and mathematical capabilities for scientific applications in partnership with disciplinary science; creates advanced SI, computing, and networking capabilities; and develops future generations of computing hardware and software tools for science and engineering.

The role defines and executes the strategic vision for next-generation SI, high-performance computing (HPC), and quantum information science (QIS) research programs, with a focus on SI and applied mathematics. It manages research programs from funding opportunities and independent peer reviews through technical-progress monitoring, administers research budgets and contracting, and evaluates proposals and project performance to guide funding and program decisions. The position also advises senior leaders and represents agency interests on national and international research committees, and facilitates the transition of advanced SI research into practical tools, software, and methods for other scientific disciplines.

The role requires at least one year of specialized experience equivalent to GS-14, including leadership of a complex SI, machine learning, or HPC research program; senior technical representation on multidisciplinary scientific panels or groups; and directing advanced algorithms, machine learning models, or mathematical techniques for physical science or engineering problems. A positive education requirement applies: candidates must meet the stated mathematics education requirement and provide college transcripts. The position is not eligible for 100% remote work; physical reporting to the official worksite is required, with situational telework eligibility. Occasional travel may be required.

Requirements

• U.S. Citizen or National.
• Meet the basic education requirement for the 1520 series: a mathematics degree or equivalent major with at least 24 semester hours in mathematics, including differential and integral calculus and four advanced mathematics courses requiring calculus or equivalent courses; alternatively, the specified coursework combined with appropriate experience or additional education.
• Provide college transcripts from an accredited institution; foreign education must be evaluated by an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
• At least one year of specialized experience equivalent to GS-14 in the Federal service.
• Specialized experience must include leading and managing a complex scientific research program, portfolio, or department focused on SI, machine learning, or HPC.
• Specialized experience must include serving as a senior technical authority or consultant representing an organization on multidisciplinary national or international scientific panels, steering committees, or collaborative research groups.
• Specialized experience must include directing development or transition of advanced algorithms, machine learning models, or mathematical techniques to address complex physical science or engineering problems.
• Meet applicable Selective Service registration requirements, if applicable.
• Successful selection may require a suitability or fitness determination and completion of a preliminary background check; a one-year probationary period may also be required.
• Submit an OGE-450 financial disclosure upon entering the position and annually if required.
• Be able to report physically to the official worksite; the position does not support 100% remote work.
• Occasional travel may be required.

Nice To Haves

• Hiring incentives may be authorized for a highly qualified candidate, subject to budget availability and federal regulations.
• Successful candidates are expected to demonstrate competencies including artificial intelligence, attention to detail, customer service, decision making, distributed systems, flexibility, grants management, influencing and negotiating, integrity and honesty, interpersonal skills, learning, mathematical reasoning, project management, reasoning, self-management, strategic thinking, stress tolerance, and teamwork.

Responsibilities

• Define and execute the strategic vision for next-generation SI, HPC, and QIS research programs, focusing on SI and applied mathematics.
• Manage scientific research programs throughout their lifecycle, including preparing funding opportunities, coordinating independent peer reviews, and monitoring technical progress.
• Administer research budgets and contracting processes, including allocating funds, monitoring contractor performance, and adjusting financial portfolios to align with program priorities.
• Evaluate scientific proposals and project performance and recommend funding, project adjustments, or program terminations.
• Consult with senior leadership, scientific experts, and external partners, representing agency interests on national and international research committees.
• Facilitate the transition of advanced SI research into practical tools, software, and methods for scientists in other disciplines.

Benefits

• Federal employees and their families have access to a comprehensive benefits package; specific eligibility depends on position type and other factors.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior