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Detector Development Physicist


Job Location:

Gaithersburg, MD - USA

Yearly Salary: USD 85447 - 85447
Posted: 6 October 2026 (4 days ago)
Application Deadline: 4 January 2027
Vacancies: 1 Vacancy

Job Summary

Summary

NIST is seeking a Detector Development Physicist to join the Neutron Physics Group. This position involves conducting experimental work to advance fundamental research in neutron physics and measurement specifically testing new designs for detecting low-energy charged particles.


This notice is issued under direct-hire authority to recruit new talent to occupations for which NIST has a severe shortage of candidates.


Duties

As a Detector Development Physicist this role focuses on detecting low-energy charged particles.

The Candidate will:

  • Conduct experimental work to perform fundamental research in neutron physics and measurement.
  • Test new Time-Kinetic Induction Detectors (TKIDs) designed for the detection of low-energy charged particles gather data from various sources in our current test facility and analyze the data.
  • Document research findings and present them to project and group leaders in an organized manner.
  • Maintain Monte Carlo simulations of device-particle interactions and provide projections of device sensitivity.
  • Collaborate with research groups technical teams and external experts to coordinate efforts and resolve complex challenges.

Requirements
Conditions of employment
  • U.S. citizenship
  • Males born aftermust be registered for Selective Service
  • Suitable for Federal employment
  • Bargaining Unit Position: No
Qualifications

Individual Occupational Requirements

Basic Requirements:

A. Degree: physics; or related degree that included at least 24 semester hours in physics.

OR

B. Combination of education and experience--courses equivalent to a major in physics totaling at least 24 semester hours plus appropriate experience or additional education.

In either A or B above the 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.

AND

In addition to the basic qualifications above applicants must possess one of the following to qualify:

A. One year (52 weeks) of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-09 level (ZP-II at NIST).
Specialized experience is defined as:

  • Experience using Thermal Kinetic Inductance Detector.
  • Processing Monte Carlo simulation of low-energy particles including 1 MeV and below.
  • Managing and operating Cryogenic systems.
  • Experience in digitizing waveform analysis and RF electronics.

OR

B. Masters or equivalent graduate degree

OR

C. Combination of education and experience


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.

The qualification requirements in this vacancy announcement are based on the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Qualification Standards Handbook.

If requesting reconsideration of your qualification determination please refer to the following site: Applicant Reconsideration
Additional information

This position is covered under NISTs Alternative Personnel Management System (APMS) a pay-for-performance system with excellent HR flexibilities to help NIST recruit and retain top talent. Learn more about the APMS here!

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.


Required Experience:

IC