Physical Scientist

You must meet both the Basic Requirement and the Specialized Experience to qualify for this series as described below. See the Education section for the Basic Requirement. SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS: A qualified candidate's online application and resume must demonstrate at least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level in the Federal service. GS-15: You must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade (GS-14).

Specialized experience for this position is defined as meeting ALL of the following: Managing or directing scientific research programs, projects, or portfolios within the physical sciences (such as physics, materials science, or chemistry); AND Evaluating scientific proposals, research progress, or peer-review results to recommend funding or resource allocations; AND Formulating and monitoring program budgets, spend plans, or resource allocations for scientific research initiatives.

NOTE: There is no substitution of education for specialized experience for the GS-15 levels. "Experience" refers to paid and unpaid experience. Examples of qualifying unpaid experience may include: volunteer work done through National Service programs (such as Peace Corps and AmeriCorps); as well as work for other community-based philanthropic and social organizations.

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. CTAP/ICTAP candidates: To be considered "well qualified" you must meet all of the requirements as described in this section. You must meet all qualifications and eligibility requirements by the closing date of this announcement.

We are truly honored that DOE has been named America's #1 Best Employer for Veterans in 2023 by Forbes-not only among Government agencies, but among employers across the U.S. We are so proud of this ranking which reflects our commitment to the employment of veterans. As so many veterans at DOE renew their service to our Nation, we are deeply committed to their success and advancement.

Veterans shape the future of energy As a Physical Scientist (ECMP Program Manager), you will: Direct the scientific scope and strategic direction of basic physical science research programs to address emerging energy challenges and advance Department mission priorities. Administer the competitive research funding process, 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 an authoritative technical liaison and advisor to leadership and external scientific communities to communicate program outcomes and represent the agency at national and international forums.