Physical Scientist

Department of Energy Headquarters • Germantown, MD

5d

About The Position

This position is part of the Office of Science – Headquarters, Department of Energy. As the Basic Energy Sciences (BES) Experimental Condensed Matter Physics (ECMP) Program Manager, the Physical Scientist advises leadership on scientific focus and research program direction, taking into account emerging research needs and opportunities, scientific and technological advances, and DOE mission areas. The position directs basic physical science research programs, administers competitive research funding, oversees budgets and scientific progress, fosters collaboration, and represents the agency to scientific communities.

Requirements

• U.S. citizenship or nationality.
• Meet the Basic Requirement for the 1301 series: a degree in physical science, engineering, or mathematics that included 24 semester hours in physical science and/or related engineering science; or equivalent education including at least 24 such semester hours, plus appropriate experience or additional education.
• At least one year of specialized experience equivalent to GS-14. The experience must include managing or directing physical science research programs, projects, or portfolios; evaluating scientific proposals, research progress, or peer-review results to recommend funding or resource allocations; and formulating and monitoring budgets, spend plans, or resource allocations for scientific research initiatives.
• Submit college transcripts demonstrating the positive education requirement; education must be from an accredited institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Foreign education must be evaluated by a recognized organization.
• If a male applicant was born after December 31, 1959, certify Selective Service registration or exemption.
• If selected, be subject to a suitability or fitness determination based on a background investigation and potentially complete a one-year probationary period.
• Submit an OGE-450 Financial Disclosure Statement upon entering the position and annually.
• Meet all qualification and eligibility requirements by the announcement closing date.

Responsibilities

• Direct the scientific scope and strategic direction of basic physical science research programs to address emerging energy challenges and advance Department mission priorities.
• Administer competitive research funding, including proposal solicitations, merit peer reviews, and award recommendations, to ensure technical excellence and sound investment of federal resources.
• Oversee program budgets, resource allocations, and scientific progress to ensure fiscal integrity, milestone achievement, and research compliance.
• Foster partnerships and collaboration across DOE, national laboratories, academia, and industry through principal investigator meetings, strategic workshops, and cross-cutting scientific initiatives.
• Serve as a technical liaison and advisor to leadership and external scientific communities, communicate program outcomes, and represent the agency at national and international forums.

Benefits

• Comprehensive federal employee benefits package for employees and their families.
• Hiring incentives may be authorized in accordance with agency policy and funding availability.

What This Job Offers

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