The National Science Foundation is seeking qualified candidates for a Science Analyst position in for the Office of Polar Programs (OPP) within the Directorate for Geosciences (GEO), Alexandria,, VA.
The National Science Foundation is seeking qualified candidates for a Science Analyst position in for the Office of Polar Programs (OPP) within the Directorate for Geosciences (GEO), Alexandria,, VA.
Applications will be accepted from current NSF agency employees who meet citizenship and eligibility requirements. Please see the "Other Information" section for further information.
The NSF science analyst works with program officers or senior staff to provide an integrated and responsible effort for a research program or an area of a research program. The goals and core strategies of NSF’s Strategic Plan set the framework for all activities. The goals are (1) enable the United State to uphold a position of world leadership in all aspects of science, mathematics, engineering, (2) promote the dissemination, and employment of new knowledge in service to society, and (3) achieve excellence in U.S. science, mathematics, engineering, and technology education at all levels. The core strategies NSF staff employ include developing capital, strengthening the physical infrastructure, integrating research and education, and promoting partnerships.
Generically, a science analyst is involved in a range of activities, for example, planning, budget development, the merit review, and proposal recommendation processes, the preparation of written material about the research areas supported, and liaison with other NSF programs, Federal agencies, and organizations.
MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
The OPP science analyst contributes to the efforts of the OPP Front Office under the leadership of the office director and senior staff. The science analyst supports multiple programs and projects under three broad categories: Program & project planning and management, external liaison and communication, and professional development.
PROGRAM & PROJECT PLANNING AND MANAGEMENT
Assist in the support of a healthy balance for all the needs of the OPP research, research support, and education enterprise through analysis, evaluation, and recommendations. This includes the ability to analyze and recognize the essential characteristics of programs and the ability to evaluate the significance of their objectives to the NSF mission.
Conduct moderately complex to complex analyses concerning the efficiency and effectiveness of existing research, research support, and educational programs. This includes the ability to gather, analyzes, and presents data for further program analysis by utilizing research trends and results tracking in support of policy related to scientific content.
Participate with senior staff in the development of short-and long-range plans and analyses to establish objectives for OPP programs and program evaluation.
Perform management studies to evaluate and measure the progress and success of projects assigned and to identify and recommend ways to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of cross directorate programs and activities.
Collect pertinent statistical data and narrative information from a variety of sources within and outside NSF. Apply various analytical techniques to data management systems in order to identify Polar research patterns and trends.
Participate in management meetings. The science analyst makes suggestions for possible alternatives or options management may consider before initiating new projects.
Exercise stewardship over OPP’s Memorandums of Understanding (MOU) and Memorandums of Agreement (MOA) by ensuring that they are up-to-date and assessable to OPP staff and, when necessary, properly archived.
Assist OPP management and senior staff in preparing all technical aspects for Advisory Committee (AC) meetings and, as necessary, Committee of Visitor (COV) meetings.
Manage all technical aspects of Distinguished Visitor (DV) site visits to Antarctica and the Arctic.
EXTERNAL LIAISON AND COMMUNICATION
Attend meetings, when authorized in advance of the meeting to represent NSF, accurately reflects NSF policy and positions.
Maintain linkages to other NSF units and other Federal agencies to form and sustain outreach partnerships and collaborations outside of OPP and NSF.
Facilitate the planning and implementation of meetings and conferences.
Respond to assignments on special projects and temporary functional teams from across the Foundation to solve problems, improve staff communication, and effective coordination.
Conduct literature searches and web-based queries to seek out potential outreach opportunities.
Assist the OPP Communications Specialist by preparing and disseminating a variety of informational documents to include brochures and branding materials for outreach activities, newsletters, and website content.
Organize various outreach events and activities to bring awareness and presence of OPP and NSF more generally.
Assist management and staff in identifying and drafting highlights, reports, and presentations.
Pursue affirmative action and EEO goals.
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
Establish contacts and pursue and pursue active involvement in Program related areas through participation in professional activities.
Pursue individual research as workload and travel funds permit.
Expand discipline-related capabilities through coursework or assumption of new duties.
Selective Service registration required for male applicants, unless exempt.
It is NSF policy that NSF personnel employed at or IPAs detailed to NSF are not permitted to participate in foreign government talent recruitment programs. Failure to comply with this NSF policy could result in disciplinary action up to and including removal from Federal Service or termination of an IPA assignment and referral to the Office of Inspector General. Foreign Talent Definitions
You will need to successfully complete a background security investigation before you can be appointed into this position.
All online applicants must provide a valid email address. If your email address is inaccurate or your mailbox is full or blocked, you may not receive important communication that could affect your consideration for this position. This position is in the bargaining unit.
Please preview "Evaluations" section and "Qualifications" for additional requirements and Quality Ranking Factors.
Qualifications
Candidates must have a Master’s degree in a Geological or Physical Science plus after award of the degree, two or more years of successful research, research administration, and/or managerial experience pertinent to the position.
This position is outside the competitive civil service.
You must meet eligibility and qualification requirements by the closing date of the announcement.
Additional information
Relocation expenses MAY be paid contingent upon the availability of funds
This announcement is open to current NSF employees who meet citizenship and eligibility requirements. Please note: NSF IPA’s are not considered agency employees and are not eligible to apply.
Federal Appropriations Law requires that Non-Citizens meet certain eligibility criteria to be considered. Therefore, Non-Citizens must certify eligibility by signing and attaching this Citizenship Affidavit to their application. Non-citizens who do not provide the affidavit at the time of application will not be considered.
This announcement may be used to fill like positions in other organizations within the National Science Foundation.
NSF has determined that all of its positions are eligible for telework. Work suitable for telework depends on job duties; therefore, employees must receive approval from their supervisor for telework and have a telework agreement in place. Entering into a telework agreement is voluntary.
The Selected Candidate(s) may be subject to a background investigation.
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.
A GREAT LOCATION! The National Science Foundation Headquarters is conveniently located across the street from the Eisenhower Avenue Metro Station, right in Alexandria, VA, a few miles from downtown Washington, DC. There are shops and restaurants within walking distance, as well as historic Old Town Alexandria a short trip away. Employees receive the Federal benefits package and NSF offers:
Pre-tax parking Public transportation subsidy Child care subsidy Flexible working hours Telecommuting Physical Fitness Facility on site Health Services Unit on site Employee Assistance Program
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.
How you will be evaluated
You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.
You will be evaluated on the extent and quality of your experience, expertise, education, and research activities relevant to the duties of the position. In some cases, additional assessment processes may also be used.
We strongly encourage you to specifically address the Quality Ranking Factors below. This will ensure that you receive full consideration in the evaluation process.
Quality Ranking Factors
Demonstrated ability to operate independently in a high-visibility, a high-pressured working environment that includes multiple Senior Executive Service (SES) members, high ranking Administratively Determined (AD) officials, and General Schedule (GS) staff.
Demonstrated ability to analyze and recognize the essential characteristics of programs and the ability to evaluate the significance of their objectives to the NSF mission.
Demonstrated experience in conducting moderately complex to complex analyses regarding the efficiency and effectiveness of existing research, research support, and educational programs, which includes the ability to gather, analyze and present data for further science analysis by utilizing research trends and results tracking.
Demonstrated experience in maintaining linkages to NSF units, other Federal agencies, and the Polar research community in order to form and sustain outreach partnerships and collaborations outside of NSF.
Demonstrated ability to organize various outreach events and activities to bring awareness and presence of OPP and NSF more generally.
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.
A GREAT LOCATION! The National Science Foundation Headquarters is conveniently located across the street from the Eisenhower Avenue Metro Station, right in Alexandria, VA, a few miles from downtown Washington, DC. There are shops and restaurants within walking distance, as well as historic Old Town Alexandria a short trip away. Employees receive the Federal benefits package and NSF offers:
Pre-tax parking Public transportation subsidy Child care subsidy Flexible working hours Telecommuting Physical Fitness Facility on site Health Services Unit on site Employee Assistance Program
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.
All applicants must submit a resume in any format, and may also submit a cover letter.
In order to be considered for federal appointments, Non-Citizens must affirm that they meet the Appropriations Law eligibility criteria by signing and attaching this Citizenship Affidavit to their application. Non citizens who do not provide the affidavit at the time of application will not be considered. Non Citizens who are exempt from the Appropriations Law requirements due to their status as officers or employees of the U.S. government on December 16, 2009 must provide a statement with their application noting their exemption with documentation of proof of status as officers or employees of the U.S. government on that date.
You are strongly encouraged to submit a current performance appraisal and/or letter(s) of recommendation and a supplemental statement that describes how your background relates to the Quality Ranking Factors (QRFs) listed in the Qualifications and Evaluation Requirements section of this announcement. This information will be used in the evaluation process.
We also ask that you complete and submit the Applicant Survey. This will help NSF to ensure that our recruiting efforts are attracting a diverse candidate pool; it will be used for statistical purposes only.
You should upload your letter of recommendation(s) or the individual(s) can email the letter of recommendation(s) to adsearch@nsf.gov; please ask him/her to put your name and the job announcement number in the subject line.
Transcripts are not required; however, please indicate the year that each degree was obtained on your application materials.
All faxing/uploading must be completed before 11:59 PM Eastern time on the vacancy closing date.If you are faxing your information, please use extreme care in dialing the fax number to assure we receive your information. You will receive an email confirmation of receipt of your faxed/uploaded document(s).
If you are relying on your education to meet qualification requirements:
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.
Your application must be submitted online and all document faxing/uploading must be completed before 11:59 PM Eastern time on the vacancy closing date. You must answer all of the job-related questions to ensure full consideration for this position. For more detailed information, please review our NSF eRecruit Applicant Guide.
WARNING! Applications submitted online must have a valid email address. If your email address is inaccurate or your mailbox is full or blocked, you may not receive important communication that could affect your consideration for this position. If you are unable to apply electronically, please use the Contact Information below for special instructions on how to submit your application materials. Hearing impaired individuals may call TDD (703) 292-8044 for assistance.
IMPORTANT NOTE: PLEASE DO NOT INCLUDE YOUR SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER OR DATE OF BIRTH ON YOUR APPLICATION DOCUMENTS.
NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION
Division of Human Resource Management
4215 Eisenhower Avenue
Alexandria, Virginia 22314
United States
Next steps
Shortly after the announcement closes, you will be notified as to whether or not you meet the basic qualification requirements. If you do, you will receive further consideration and evaluation. If the position is in the bargaining unit, and your application is referred to the selecting official, you will be contacted for an interview if interviews are conducted. Interviews for positions not in the bargaining unit may be conducted at the discretion of the selecting official. All qualified applicants will receive final notification of the outcome of the job opportunity announcement.
You may check the status of your application at any time on the USAJOBS website.
We highly recommend that all candidates opt to receive email notifications for job status updates.
The Federal hiring process is set up to be fair and transparent. Please read the following guidance.
All applicants must submit a resume in any format, and may also submit a cover letter.
In order to be considered for federal appointments, Non-Citizens must affirm that they meet the Appropriations Law eligibility criteria by signing and attaching this Citizenship Affidavit to their application. Non citizens who do not provide the affidavit at the time of application will not be considered. Non Citizens who are exempt from the Appropriations Law requirements due to their status as officers or employees of the U.S. government on December 16, 2009 must provide a statement with their application noting their exemption with documentation of proof of status as officers or employees of the U.S. government on that date.
You are strongly encouraged to submit a current performance appraisal and/or letter(s) of recommendation and a supplemental statement that describes how your background relates to the Quality Ranking Factors (QRFs) listed in the Qualifications and Evaluation Requirements section of this announcement. This information will be used in the evaluation process.
We also ask that you complete and submit the Applicant Survey. This will help NSF to ensure that our recruiting efforts are attracting a diverse candidate pool; it will be used for statistical purposes only.
You should upload your letter of recommendation(s) or the individual(s) can email the letter of recommendation(s) to adsearch@nsf.gov; please ask him/her to put your name and the job announcement number in the subject line.
Transcripts are not required; however, please indicate the year that each degree was obtained on your application materials.
All faxing/uploading must be completed before 11:59 PM Eastern time on the vacancy closing date.If you are faxing your information, please use extreme care in dialing the fax number to assure we receive your information. You will receive an email confirmation of receipt of your faxed/uploaded document(s).
If you are relying on your education to meet qualification requirements:
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.
Your application must be submitted online and all document faxing/uploading must be completed before 11:59 PM Eastern time on the vacancy closing date. You must answer all of the job-related questions to ensure full consideration for this position. For more detailed information, please review our NSF eRecruit Applicant Guide.
WARNING! Applications submitted online must have a valid email address. If your email address is inaccurate or your mailbox is full or blocked, you may not receive important communication that could affect your consideration for this position. If you are unable to apply electronically, please use the Contact Information below for special instructions on how to submit your application materials. Hearing impaired individuals may call TDD (703) 292-8044 for assistance.
IMPORTANT NOTE: PLEASE DO NOT INCLUDE YOUR SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER OR DATE OF BIRTH ON YOUR APPLICATION DOCUMENTS.
NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION
Division of Human Resource Management
4215 Eisenhower Avenue
Alexandria, Virginia 22314
United States
Next steps
Shortly after the announcement closes, you will be notified as to whether or not you meet the basic qualification requirements. If you do, you will receive further consideration and evaluation. If the position is in the bargaining unit, and your application is referred to the selecting official, you will be contacted for an interview if interviews are conducted. Interviews for positions not in the bargaining unit may be conducted at the discretion of the selecting official. All qualified applicants will receive final notification of the outcome of the job opportunity announcement.
You may check the status of your application at any time on the USAJOBS website.
We highly recommend that all candidates opt to receive email notifications for job status updates.
Fair and transparent
The Federal hiring process is set up to be fair and transparent. Please read the following guidance.
