Acoustics and Vibration Metrologist

Summary

NIST is seeking an Acoustics and Vibration Metrologist to join the Mass and Force group within the Quantum Measurement Division. This position is focused on designing and implementing calibration systems for measuring mechanical quantities. The primary goal of this role is to enhance the accessibility and range of values for measurement dissemination. 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 an Acoustics and Vibration Metrologist, this role emphasizes providing precise measurements and metrology to enhance NIST's dissemination of acoustic and vibration traceability. The Candidate will: Operate calibration services for customer vibration and acoustic measurement devices. Implement improvements in the operation of calibration systems and services. Realize the SI mechanical units from the defining constants of the SI Participate as a creative member of a basic research team. Carry out research to improve the realization and dissemination of SI traceability in mechanical measurements.

Qualifications

Individual Occupational Requirements Basic Requirements: 1\. Degree: physics; or related degree that included at least 24 semester hours in physics. OR 2\. 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. In addition to the basic requirements, applicants must also have one year (52 weeks) of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-09 (ZP-II at NIST) level. Specialized Experience is defined as experience in: Carrying out precision measurements and metrology Operating and troubleshooting complex technical equipment. Coding in Python and Matlab. Implementing automated data acquisition. Interfacing with vendors and managing upgrades of technical equipment, Nanofabrication, including multilayer deposition Publishing research results and mentoring students. OR Master's or equivalent graduate degree as defined in the basic requirements. OR A combination of graduate education and specialized experience as defined in the additional requirements. 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