As a Social Scientist, you will play a lead role in developing, planning, and coordinating complex evaluations to further GSA’s mission. In addition, you will conduct and otherwise support evaluation and other evidence building activities to improve GSA strategies, policies, and projects.
Location of position:GSA, OGP, Office of Evaluation Sciences, Virtual-Location Negotiable After Selection
Summary
As a Social Scientist, you will play a lead role in developing, planning, and coordinating complex evaluations to further GSA’s mission. In addition, you will conduct and otherwise support evaluation and other evidence building activities to improve GSA strategies, policies, and projects.
Location of position:GSA, OGP, Office of Evaluation Sciences, Virtual-Location Negotiable After Selection
As a Social Scientist, you will perform the following duties:
Apply existing behavioral and social science research principles, concepts, and methods to execute research tasks under the director of senior staff, to include identification of study samples, drafting of coding and survey instruments, collecting and analyzing data and other information; reviews scientific literature; creates annotated bibliographies; and conducts literature reviews.
Investigate problems of considerable complexity and finds non-obvious solutions. Results of work make a considerable contribution in resolving agency problems; advance scientific knowledge and understanding or capability; or overcome technical obstacles recognized by other professionals as highly complex.
Use varied qualitative and quantitative research methods including with the use of statistical software, including R, Stata, and Python. Examples of qualitative methods include but are not limited to interviewing, observation, focus groups, document analysis, service blueprinting, and journey mapping. Examples of quantitative methods include but are not limited to manipulation and cleaning of complex administrative data sets; randomized control trials; non-experimental or quasi-experimental methods such as difference in differences, matching estimators, regression discontinuity, and the use of natural experiments; predictive modeling or machine learning; and data visualization.
Conduct briefings and presentations and deals responsibly on technical matters in the field within and outside the organization. Consults and coordinates activities with subject matter experts, representatives of other Federal Government agencies, business concerns, and others.
Serve as a recognized expert in identifying top agency priorities, identifying the relevant academic literature to be applied to directly respond to agency needs, identifying additional experts in the social and behavioral sciences to add value and content, refining an operationally feasible low-cost intervention, designing a rigorous evaluation, conducting analysis of relevant administrative data, distilling findings for agency audience and academic audience, and managing relations with agency partners throughout the process.
US Citizens and National (Residents of American Samoa and Swains Island)
Meet all eligibility criteria within 30 days of the closing date
Register with Selective Service if you are a male born after 12/31/1959
If selected, you must meet the following conditions:
As required by Executive Order 14043, Federal executive branch employees are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 regardless of the employee's duty location or work arrangement (e.g., telework, remote work, etc.), subject to such exceptions as required by law. If selected, you will be required to be vaccinated against COVID-19 and submit documentation of proof of vaccination by November 22, 2021 or before appointment or onboarding with the agency (if later than November 22, 2021). The agency will provide additional information regarding which forms of documentation can be accepted and how you can request a legally required exception from this requirement. If selected and you are a current GSA employee (except in the OIG), you are not required to show proof of full COVID-19 vaccination if this requirement has already been met.
Due to COVID-19, the agency is currently in an expanded telework posture. If selected, you may be expected to temporarily telework, even if your home is located outside the local commuting area. Once employees are permitted to return to the office, you will be expected to report to the duty station listed on this announcement within 45 days. At that time, you may be eligible to request to continue to telework one or more days a pay period depending upon the terms of the agency’s telework policy.
Receive authorization from OPM on any job offer you receive, if you are or were (within the last 5 years) a political Schedule A, Schedule C or Non-Career SES employee in the Executive Branch.
Serve a one year probationary period, if required.
Undergo and pass a background investigation (Tier 2 investigation level).
Have your identity and work status eligibility verified if you are not a GSA employee. We will use the Department of Homeland Security’s e-Verify system for this. Any discrepancies must be resolved as a condition of continued employment.
Qualifications
For each job on your resume, provide:
the exact dates you held each job (from month/year to month/year)
number of hours per week you worked (if part time).
If you have volunteered your service through a National Service program (e.g., Peace Corps, Americorps), we encourage you to apply and include this experience on your resume.
For a brief video on creating a Federal resume, click here.
The GS-13 salary range starts at $79,468 per year. Locality will be determined based on duty location.
If you are a new federal employee, your starting salary will likely be set at the Step 1 of the grade for which you are selected.
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE:
Basic Requirements: Degree in behavioral or social science; or related disciplines appropriate to the position. OR Combination of education and experience that provided the applicant with knowledge of one or more of the behavioral or social sciences equivalent to a major in the field. OR Four years of appropriate experience that demonstrated that the applicant has acquired knowledge of one or more of the behavioral or social sciences equivalent to a major in the field.
In addition to the Basic Requirement above, all candidates must possess one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-12 in the federal service. Specialized experience is experience directly managing multiple rigorous and large scale evaluation projects requiring application of advanced analytical and statistical methods, with responsibility for designing, managing, coordinating, implementing, analyzing and communicating evaluations of complex programs; applying statistical and impact evaluation methods to learn about the efficiency and effectiveness of program operations; and, leading both large scale qualitative and quantitative research and conducting detailed analyses of complex datasets.
We are currently filling one vacancy, but additional vacancies may be filled through this announcement in this or other GSA organizations within the same commuting area.
If you are eligible under Merit Promotion, you may also apply under Vacancy Announcement # 22STFA046PDMP. You must apply separately to each announcement to be considered for both.
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.
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.
We will use a method called Category Rating to assess your application. Here’s how it will work:
You will be scored on the questions you answer during the application process, which will measure your possession of the following competencies or knowledge, skills, and abilities:
Ability to conduct research, using a variety of sources, to aid in decision-making on issues of importance to the successful mission of the office.
Ability to identify problems and recommend possible solutions through understanding of agency policies and procedures as they relate to the various programs.
Skill in applying analytical and evaluative methods and techniques to issues or studies concerning the efficiency and effectiveness of program operations.
Ability to use oral and written communication techniques to prepare and deliver simple oral and written reports; develop agendas and briefing material; conduct fact finding interviews; present recommendations, represent the office externally; and provide advice and guidance to others.
Knowledge of management and organizational principles and practices.
Knowledge of planning programming and budgeting regulations, guidelines and process.
Knowledge of acquisition, and management process to prepare long-range and short-range planning guidance in accordance with broad agency program policies and objectives.
Your answers to the questions will be used to place you in one of three categories: Best Qualified, Well Qualified, or Qualified [If the use of 4 categories is justified, adjust verbiage].
We will verify your answers to the questions in your resume. If your resume doesn’t support your answers, we may lower your score, which could place you in a lower category.
Within each category, veterans will receive selection priority over non-veterans.
Additional assessments may be used, and, if so, you will be provided with further instructions.
If you are eligible under Interagency Career Transition Assistance Plan or GSA’s Career Transition Assistance Plan (ICTAP/CTAP), you must receive a score of 85 or higher to receive priority.
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.
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 required documents must be submitted before the closing date. Review the following list to determine what you need to submit.
If you are claiming veterans’ preference: (a) Copy of your Certificate of Release or Discharge From Active Duty, DD-214 that shows the dates of your active duty service. If selected, a DD-214 showing your type of discharge (member 4 copy) will be required prior to appointment. (b) If you are claiming 10-point preference or derived preference (a spouse, widow or widower, or parent of a deceased or disabled veteran), submit both of the following in addition to the DD-214: (1) completed SF-15 form; and (2) proof of your entitlement (refer to SF-15 for complete list).
If you are active duty military - Certification on a letterhead from your military branch that includes your rank, character of service (must be under honorable conditions) & military service dates including discharge/release date (must be no later than 120 days after the date the certification is submitted).
If you are ICTAP/CTAP eligible - submit a, b, and c: (a) proof of eligibility including agency notice; (b) SF-50, and (c) most recent performance appraisal.
Current or Former Political Appointees: Submit SF-50.
College transcripts: If you are using some or all of your college education to meet qualification requirements for this position, you must submit a photocopy of your college transcript(s). If selected, an official transcript will be required prior to appointment. For education completed outside the United States, also submit a valid foreign credential evaluation that substantiates possession of the required education.
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.
You must submit a complete online application including any required documents prior to 11:59 pm Eastern Time on the closing date of the Announcement. Errors or omissions may result in your not being considered for this vacancy. You can modify/complete your application any time before the vacancy date/time deadline. Simply return to USAJOBS, select the vacancy, and update your application. For more detailed instructions on how to apply, read the Apply for a GSA Job on the GSA website.
To begin, click the Apply Online button on the vacancy announcement.
Sign in or register on USAJobs and select a resume and documents to include in your application.
Once you have clicked Apply for this position now, you will be taken to the GSA site to complete the application process.
Click the Apply To This Vacancy and complete all steps in the application process until the Confirmation indicates your application is complete. If you click Return to USAJobs or get timed out prior to receiving confirmation, your application will not be submitted and cannot be considered for this vacancy.
Note: Review the REQUIRED DOCUMENTS section of this announcement to determine which apply to you and must be submitted online. You may choose one or more of the following options to submit your document(s): Upload (from your computer); USAJOBS (click the "USAJOBS" link to complete the transfer process) or FAX (read the “Fax instructions” provided prior to printing the Fax Cover Sheet and faxing your information).
Need Assistance in Applying? Contact the HR representative listed on the announcement prior to the application deadline. We are available to assist you Monday-Friday during normal business hours. You must receive HR approval before deviating from these instructions. Be sure to APPLY EARLY as most assessments must be completed fully and submitted before the announcement closing.
GSA, Office of Governmentwide Policy
General Services Administration
1800 F Street NW - 7th Floor
Washington, District of Columbia 20405
United States
Next steps
After the closing date/deadline:
ELIGIBILITY/QUALIFICATIONS: Applicant eligibility and qualifications are reviewed.
REFERRAL TO MANAGEMENT: Eligible/Qualified applicants are referred to management for review and possible interview.
SELECTION/TENTATIVE JOB OFFER: If a selection is made, a Tentative Offer is extended to the selectee and suitability and/or security background investigation is conducted.
FINAL JOB OFFER: A final job offer is made (typically within 40 days after the closing date/deadline for applications).
FINAL COMMUNICATION TO APPLICANTS: Once the position is filled, we will notify you of your status. You may also check your application status by logging into USAJOBS and clicking “Track this Application” on the Applicant Dashboard.
Thank you for your interest in working for U.S. General Services Administration!
The Federal hiring process is set up to be fair and transparent. Please read the following guidance.
ALL required documents must be submitted before the closing date. Review the following list to determine what you need to submit.
If you are claiming veterans’ preference: (a) Copy of your Certificate of Release or Discharge From Active Duty, DD-214 that shows the dates of your active duty service. If selected, a DD-214 showing your type of discharge (member 4 copy) will be required prior to appointment. (b) If you are claiming 10-point preference or derived preference (a spouse, widow or widower, or parent of a deceased or disabled veteran), submit both of the following in addition to the DD-214: (1) completed SF-15 form; and (2) proof of your entitlement (refer to SF-15 for complete list).
If you are active duty military - Certification on a letterhead from your military branch that includes your rank, character of service (must be under honorable conditions) & military service dates including discharge/release date (must be no later than 120 days after the date the certification is submitted).
If you are ICTAP/CTAP eligible - submit a, b, and c: (a) proof of eligibility including agency notice; (b) SF-50, and (c) most recent performance appraisal.
Current or Former Political Appointees: Submit SF-50.
College transcripts: If you are using some or all of your college education to meet qualification requirements for this position, you must submit a photocopy of your college transcript(s). If selected, an official transcript will be required prior to appointment. For education completed outside the United States, also submit a valid foreign credential evaluation that substantiates possession of the required education.
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.
You must submit a complete online application including any required documents prior to 11:59 pm Eastern Time on the closing date of the Announcement. Errors or omissions may result in your not being considered for this vacancy. You can modify/complete your application any time before the vacancy date/time deadline. Simply return to USAJOBS, select the vacancy, and update your application. For more detailed instructions on how to apply, read the Apply for a GSA Job on the GSA website.
To begin, click the Apply Online button on the vacancy announcement.
Sign in or register on USAJobs and select a resume and documents to include in your application.
Once you have clicked Apply for this position now, you will be taken to the GSA site to complete the application process.
Click the Apply To This Vacancy and complete all steps in the application process until the Confirmation indicates your application is complete. If you click Return to USAJobs or get timed out prior to receiving confirmation, your application will not be submitted and cannot be considered for this vacancy.
Note: Review the REQUIRED DOCUMENTS section of this announcement to determine which apply to you and must be submitted online. You may choose one or more of the following options to submit your document(s): Upload (from your computer); USAJOBS (click the "USAJOBS" link to complete the transfer process) or FAX (read the “Fax instructions” provided prior to printing the Fax Cover Sheet and faxing your information).
Need Assistance in Applying? Contact the HR representative listed on the announcement prior to the application deadline. We are available to assist you Monday-Friday during normal business hours. You must receive HR approval before deviating from these instructions. Be sure to APPLY EARLY as most assessments must be completed fully and submitted before the announcement closing.
GSA, Office of Governmentwide Policy
General Services Administration
1800 F Street NW - 7th Floor
Washington, District of Columbia 20405
United States
Next steps
After the closing date/deadline:
ELIGIBILITY/QUALIFICATIONS: Applicant eligibility and qualifications are reviewed.
REFERRAL TO MANAGEMENT: Eligible/Qualified applicants are referred to management for review and possible interview.
SELECTION/TENTATIVE JOB OFFER: If a selection is made, a Tentative Offer is extended to the selectee and suitability and/or security background investigation is conducted.
FINAL JOB OFFER: A final job offer is made (typically within 40 days after the closing date/deadline for applications).
FINAL COMMUNICATION TO APPLICANTS: Once the position is filled, we will notify you of your status. You may also check your application status by logging into USAJOBS and clicking “Track this Application” on the Applicant Dashboard.
Thank you for your interest in working for U.S. General Services Administration!
Fair and transparent
The Federal hiring process is set up to be fair and transparent. Please read the following guidance.
