Ultra-low Temperature Metrologist

National Institute of Standards and Technology•Gaithersburg, MD

8d•Onsite

About The Position

NIST is seeking an Ultra-low temperature Metrologist to join the Temperature & Humidity Group in the Sensor Science Division. This position involves advancing the frontiers of ultra-low-temperature metrology by leading research, development, and dissemination of next-generation temperature-measurement capabilities in the millikelvin and sub-kelvin regimes. This notice is issued under direct-hire authority to recruit new talent to occupations for which NIST has a severe shortage of candidates.

Requirements

U.S. citizenship
Males born after 12-31-59 must be registered for Selective Service
Suitable for Federal employment
Degree in physics; or related degree that included at least 24 semester hours in physics.
Courses must have included a fundamental course in general physics and, in addition, courses in any two of the following: electricity and magnetism, heat, light, mechanics, modern physics, and sound.
One year (52 weeks) of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-09 level (ZP-II at NIST). Specialized experience is defined as: Conducting cryogenic and ultra-low-temperature research that includes precision thermometry, electrical measurements, or thermal modeling.
Experience in developing automated data acquisition systems or instrumentation.
Conducting uncertainty analysis to achieve accurate and traceable temperature measurements.
Master's or equivalent graduate degree
Combination of education and experience

Responsibilities

Conducting research and development in ultra-low-temperature metrology to enhance cryogenic measurement capabilities and establish traceable temperature standards in the millikelvin and sub-kelvin regimes.
Design, develop, and implement advanced cryogenic measurement systems.
Conduct innovative research to tackle critical challenges in sub-kelvin thermometry, which includes thermal management, parasitic heat effects, sensor characterization, and calibration methodologies.
Lead the modernization of measurement infrastructure and develop advanced instrumentation and data analysis tools.
Prepare technical publications and reports.
Provide technical guidance and collaborate with national and international partners to advance measurement science and support emerging technologies.
Apply expertise in cryogenic engineering, precision electrical measurements, thermal modeling, and automated data acquisition to enhance laboratory capabilities.