[ES_JOBS_NET] R&D Scientist, Dept. of Defense, VA

[Christine Wiedinmyer]

https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/490475600

 

*  Summary 

JOB DESCRIPTION: R&D Scientists apply the scientific method in one or more
disciplines (e.g., Photogrammetry, Geodesy, Computer Science, Mathematics,
Image Science, Human Terrain Analysis) to advance Geospatial Science and
enhance Agency tradecraft. They conduct and develop novel scientific
research projects and facilitate interdisciplinary collaboration to further
scientific inquiry and application. They provide technical guidance and
oversight, report results, and advise management on new and evolving
technology. They address a variety of complex data-related analytical
problems by applying quantitative and qualitative analytic methods. 

Responsibilities 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: NGA is seeking research scientists in the following
scientific areas: 1. Geospatial Cyber. Develop/manage/monitor research
projects and personnel in cyber-based pattern-of-life discovery, mobility
modeling, geospatial inference, and protection from threat to GEOINT data
and methods. Background in computer science, mathematics, statistics, or
related field is desired and substantial supervisory experience. 2.
Environment and Culture. Perform research to understand how US national
security is impacted by the effects of complex natural systems and cultural
dynamics. Leverage traditional and non-traditional geospatial data sources
to model trends in cultural and natural systems, represent the complex
interaction between humans and their environment, and anticipate their
impact on problems of relevance to the IC. Design/execute/lead new
multi-disciplinary programs focused on modeling & detection of biological,
chemical, or nuclear proliferation activities. Understanding how disparate
non-traditional geospatial data sources can be combined with traditional
data to model language/dialect distributions, disease spread, community
demographics, and other human geography issues related to national security.
Serve as an expert for research design frameworks such as mixed-methods
approaches or process-driven model construction. Advanced degree desired in:
quantitative social science, computational linguistics, anthropology,
demography, disease modeling, spatial epidemiology, computational biology,
genetics and proteomics, biochemistry, agriculture, or hydrology. 3. GEOINT
Assurance. Develops new technology-based capabilities to enable NGA to
sustain the agency's GEOINT data, sensors, and analytics against threats
from adversaries. Demonstrated ability and strong interest in developing
his/her own research program in artificial intelligence and machine
learning, cybersecurity, operational resilience, and space situational
awareness. Strong background in physics, astrophysics, computer science,
mathematics, statistics, or related field/experience with mathematical
modeling applied across multiple research projects is desired. 4.
Anticipatory Analytics. Develop quantitative models of human dynamics using
spatiotemporal datasets, data-driven collection, automation, and
activity-based intelligence (ABI). Utilize spatiotemporal datasets to
develop quantitative models of human dynamics. Particular challenges
associated with data this group include correlation across data sets
assembled from multiple types of sensors, pattern recognition in high
volumes of sparsely sampled data, and operational demand for near-real time
and predictive analytics. Background in computer science, predictive
analytics, math/stat modeling, and managing research programs is desired. 5.
Automation. Develop/manage/monitor people & programs in the hands on
creation of new computer vision algorithms to address mission requirements
in full motion video, wide area motion imagery and ground level video.
Extensive experience w/ design & implementation of video data
management/video exploitation for computer vision algorithms (preferably
machine learning related). Computer vision or a video exploitation related
field and Motion GEOINT and/or computer vision experience using a variety of
geospatial data types is also critical. 6. Automation.
Develop/manage/monitor research projects working with satellite and ground
level imagery, leading new computer vision research projects. Experience
with design and implementation of data management and state of the art
computer systems for computer vision algorithms, object detection, and
classification and image segmentation is desired. 7. Geophysics.
Formalize/enhance the current/emerging R&D efforts in particle physics so as
to gain best return on investment of R&D efforts on counter-proliferation
via innovative approaches to enhance modeling/detection of subatomic
particles. Experience in neutron detection and related instrumentation, be
familiar with Large Area Picosecond Photo Detector (LAPPD) technology,
picosecond electronics, battery systems, and the integration of ruggedized
instrumentation. 8. Spectral. Provide technical expertise to ensure NGA
readiness for future Electro-Optical (EO) space systems. Assess system
performance capabilities using surrogate data and deliver new methods of
processing that leverage specific system characteristics. Experience in
astronomical image processing, clutter suppression techniques, framing focal
plane arrays, sensor calibration, and processing of images for non-literal
analyses is key. Strong knowledge of remote sensing fundamentals with
cognizance of the state of practice in machine learning, computer vision,
and data science for automated content extraction from noisy measurements.
Be prepared to rigorously test, evaluate, and adapt potential solutions and
facilitate collaboration between NGA and government and commercial data
providers. 

Supervisory status No 

Who May Apply This job is open to. External Applicants Only 

Questions? This job is open to 1 group. 




*  Job family (Series) 1301 General Physical Science 




*  Requirements Requirements Conditions of Employment

*	US Citizenship is required.
*	Designated or Random Drug Testing required.
*	Security Investigation


SPECIAL INFO: 
As a condition of employment at NGA, persons being considered for employment
must meet NGA fitness for employment standards. 

- U.S. Citizenship Required 
- Security Clearance (Top Secret/Sensitive Compartmented Information) 
- Polygraph Test Required 
- Position Subject to Drug Testing 
- Two Year Probationary Period 
- Direct Deposit Required 

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: 
You must be able to obtain and retain a Top Secret security clearance with
access to Sensitive Compartmented Information. In addition, you are subject
to a Counterintelligence Polygraph examination in order to maintain access
to Top Secret information. All employees are subject to a periodic
examination on a random basis in order to determine continued eligibility.
Refusal to take the examination may result in denial of access to Top Secret
information, SAP, and/or unescorted access to SCIFs. 

Employees with SCI access and who are under NGA cognizance are required to
submit a Security Financial Disclosure Report, SF-714, on an annual basis in
order to determine continued eligibility. Failure to comply may negatively
impact continued access to Top Secret information, Information Systems, SAP,
and/or unescorted access to SCIFs. 

NGA utilizes all processes and procedures of the Defense Civilian
Intelligence Personnel System (DCIPS). Non-executive NGA employees are
assigned to five distinct pay bands based on the type and scope of work
performed. The employee's base salary is established within their assigned
pay band based on their unique qualifications. A performance pay process is
conducted each year to determine a potential base pay salary increase and/or
bonus. An employee's annual performance evaluation is a key factor in the
performance pay process. Employees on term or temporary appointments are not
eligible to apply for internal assignment opportunity notices. 

This position is a DCIPS position in the Excepted Service under 10 U.S.C.
1601. DoD Components with DCIPS positions apply Veterans' Preference to
preference eligible candidates as defined by Section 2108 of Title 5 USC, in
accordance with the procedures provided in DoD Instruction 1400.25, Volume
2005, DCIPS Employment and Placement. If you are an external applicant
claiming veterans' preference, as defined by Section 2108 of Title 5 U.S.C.,
you must self-identify your eligibility in our ERecruit application. 

Qualifications MANDATORY QUALIFICATION CRITERIA: For this particular job,
applicants must meet all competencies reflected under the Mandatory
Qualification Criteria to include education (if required). Online resumes
must demonstrate qualification by providing specific examples and associated
results, in response to the announcement's mandatory criteria specified in
this vacancy announcement: Pay Band 3: 1. Experience briefing scientific
research and communicating results to a range of stakeholders. 2.
Demonstrated communication skills and an ability to independently coordinate
programs and projects in areas of science and research related to geospatial
intelligence functions. 3. Research experience evidenced by previous
documented efforts. Pay Band 4: 1.Demonstrated subject matter expertise on
topics in your technical domain(s), incorporating this expertise into
research projects. 2.Documented experience monitoring technical personnel
and programs. 3.Experience briefing scientific research and communicating
results to a range of stakeholders. 4.Experience developing and leading
research proposals, executing research plans, and collaborating as
appropriate with other scientists. 5.Ability to handle a wide range of
complex tasks and non-routine situations. EDUCATION REQUIREMENT: A.
Education: Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Mathematics, Physical Science,
or a related discipline that includes 24 semester (36 quarter) hours in
Science, Mathematics and/or a related Engineering Science. Such coursework
includes, but is not limited to, Astronomy, Cartography, Chemistry, Computer
Science, Dynamics, Electrical Engineering, Geodesy, Geography, Geology,
Geophysics, Geospatial Information Systems, Mathematics, Orbital Mechanics,
Photogrammetry, Physics, Remote Sensing, or Surveying. Although not
mandatory, coursework in differential and integral calculus is preferred.
-OR- B. Combination of Education and Experience: A minimum of 24 semester
(36 quarter) hours of college education in any areas listed in option A plus
experience that demonstrates the ability to successfully perform the duties
associated with this work. As a rule, every 30 semester (45 quarter) hours
of college work is equivalent to one year of experience. Candidates should
show that their combination of education and experience totals to 4 years. 

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATION CRITERIA: In addition to the mandatory
qualifications, experience in the following is desired: Pay Band 3: 1. Ph.D.
degree desired, but a minimum of a Bachelor's or a Master's degree in
physical sciences, biological or chemical sciences, computational sciences,
geospatial sciences and remote sensing, engineering mathematics, or related
fields, with at least ten years of experience in research and development is
preferred. Demonstrated knowledge and R&D accomplishments in any of the
following areas is highly preferred; such as: computer science or
information technology, geospatial sciences, geography, any geoscience or
GIS area, remote sensing, physics, molecular biology, computational biology,
genetics and proteomics or biochemistry. 2. Demonstrated research skills and
experience as evidenced by previous, documented efforts, citations of work,
and publications in peer-reviewed journals, and receipt of patents and/or
awards in a STEM related topic. 3. Experience in demonstrating the quality,
complexity and significance of research outputs through sound evaluations
and analysis of results. 4. Experience developing research proposals,
executing research plans, and collaborating with other scientists. 5.
Knowledge of NGA, its multidisciplinary tradecraft, mission, and the
interrelationships of the IC and other Federal Agencies as well as Academia
and Industry. Pay Band 4: 1.Ph.D. degree desired, but a minimum of a
Bachelor's or a Master's degree in physical sciences, biological or chemical
sciences, computational sciences, geospatial sciences and remote sensing,
engineering mathematics, or related fields, with at least ten years of
experience in research and development is preferred. Demonstrated knowledge
and R&D accomplishments in any of the following areas is highly preferred;
such as: computer science or information technology, geospatial sciences,
geography, any geoscience or GIS area, remote sensing, physics, molecular
biology, computational biology, genetics and proteomics or biochemistry. 2.
Experience demonstrating the quality, complexity, and significance of
research outputs through sound evaluation and analysis of results. 3.
Demonstrated research skills and experience as evidenced by previous,
documented efforts, citations of work, and publications in peer-reviewed
journals, and receipt of patents and/or awards in a STEM related topic. 4.
Knowledge of NGA, its multidisciplinary tradecraft, mission, and the
interrelationships of the IC and other Federal Agencies as well as Academia
and Industry. 

Education 

Additional information 

How You Will Be Evaluated You will be evaluated for this job based on how
well you meet the qualifications above. 

Applicants are NOT required to submit a cover letter. The entire cover
letter cannot exceed the specified limits provided in the Cover Letter field
(3,000 characters). Pages exceeding this limit will not be considered. THE
COVER LETTER IS RECOMMENDED BUT IS NOT REQUIRED FOR EMPLOYMENT CONSIDERATION
WITH THE NATIONAL GEOSPATIAL-INTELLIGENCE AGENCY. 

APPLICANT EVALUATION PROCESS: Applicants will be evaluated for this job
opportunity in three stages: 

1) All applicants will be evaluated using the Mandatory Qualification
Criteria, 
2) Qualified applicants will then be evaluated by an expert or panel of
experts using a combination of qualification criteria to determine the
best-qualified candidates, 
3) Best-qualified applicants may then be further evaluated through an
interview process. 

Applicants are encouraged to carefully review the Assignment Description,
Additional Information Provided By the Selecting Official, and the
Qualification Requirements; and then construct their resumes to highlight
their most relevant and significant experience and education for this job
opportunity. This description should include examples that detail the level
and complexity of the performed work. Applicants are encouraged to provide
any education information referenced in the announcement. If education is
listed as a mandatory requirement, only degrees obtained from an institution
accredited by an accrediting organization recognized by the Secretary, US
Department of Education will be accepted. 

As a condition of employment at NGA, persons being considered for employment
must meet NGA fitness for employment standards. 

In accordance with section 9902(h) of title 5, United States Code,
annuitants reemployed in the Department of Defense shall receive full
annuity and salary upon appointment. They shall not be eligible for
retirement contributions, participation in the Thrift Savings Plan, or a
supplemental or redetermined annuity for the reemployment period.
Discontinued service retirement annuitants (i.e., retired under section
8336(d)(1) or 8414(b)(1)(A) of title 5, United States Code) appointed to the
Department of Defense may elect to be subject to retirement provisions of
the new appointment as appropriate. (See DoD Instruction 1400.25, Volume
300, at http://www.dtic.mil/whs/directives.) 

All candidates will be considered without regard to race, color, religion,
sex, national origin, age, marital status, disability, or sexual
orientation. 

NGA provides reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities.
Applications will only be accepted online. If you need a reasonable
accommodation for any part of the application and hiring process, please
notify us at recruitment at nga.mil. The decision on granting reasonable
accommodation will be on a case-by-case basis. 

Background checks and security clearance Security clearance Top Secret/SCI 




*  Required Documents Required Documents None 

If you are relying on your education to meet qualification requirements:
Education must be accredited by an accrediting institution recognized by the
U.S. Department of Education in order for it to be credited towards
qualifications. Therefore, provide only the attendance and/or degrees from
schools accredited by accrediting institutions recognized by the U.S.
Department of Education . 

Failure to provide all of the required information as stated in this vacancy
announcement may result in an ineligible rating or may affect the overall
rating. 




*  Benefits Benefits 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. Learn 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.

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