The National Science Foundation is seeking qualified candidates for a Social Scientist (Evaluator) position in the Evaluation and Assessment Capability Section (EAC) within the Office of Integrative Activities (OIA) of the Office of the Director (OD), Alexandria, VA.
The National Science Foundation is seeking qualified candidates for a Social Scientist (Evaluator) position in the Evaluation and Assessment Capability Section (EAC) within the Office of Integrative Activities (OIA) of the Office of the Director (OD), Alexandria, VA.
Applications will be accepted from all US citizens who meet citizenship and eligibility requirements. Please see the "Other Information" section for further information.
EAC advances the science of science by providing centralized support and resources for data collection, analytics, and the design of evaluation studies and surveys. EAC relies on facilitated conversations with stakeholders to identify learning priorities and on a broad range of qualitative and quantitative methods, from simple descriptive analysis to advanced modeling, network analysis, and machine learning. These activities enable NSF to evaluate the impacts of its investments, make data-informed decisions, and promote a culture of evidence-based planning and policymaking. The EAC team is also responsible for leading the agency’s efforts to comply with certain requirements of the Foundations for Evidence-Based Policymaking Act of 2018 (Evidence Act).
EAC Evaluators are responsible for conducting, collaborating in, and/or managing evaluations and other studies of NSF investments in:
Fundamental science and engineering research. Most NSF funding supports basic research across all science and engineering disciplines and their interdisciplinary connections, including basic research about science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education.
People. NSF helps train current and future scientists through a range of human capital development programs supporting students, post-docs and faculty through scholarships, fellowships, research experiences, early career awards, and so on.
Strategic and cross-cutting themes. NSF investments in research and people often address areas of national priority such as sustainability, innovation, and advanced manufacturing.
The incumbent will work closely with others members of EAC to expand the Agency’s research and evaluation capability. As an expert in research and evaluation methodology, the incumbent will provide scientific, theoretical, and analytic expertise for the study and assessment of policies and programs across STEM fields. Specific duties include, but are not limited to, the following.
Study design and implementation
Lead the conceptualization, design, and implementation of innovative, robust, qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-methods approaches to evaluating research and education STEM programs, policies and cross-cutting themes (topics, intervention approaches, and so on); these evaluations may be conducted by NSF staff, consultants, or contractors.
Develop statements of work (for external or contracted studies) or study designs and work plans (for studies conducted internally).
Prepare, review, or provide advice on requirements for Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA) clearance packages.
Respond to leadership requests or new Agency priorities as they arise.
Technical advice/oversight
Lead Technical Evaluation Panels to evaluate proposals and budget justifications.
Serve as expert technical advisor on current evaluation practices and methods.
Ensure that evaluations conducted by NSF meet high professional standards and NSF information needs.
Work with other NSF directorates and offices and with Federal and professional bodies to identify and disseminate innovative and best evaluation practices.
After completing required training, serve as Contracting Officer Representative (COR) for studies supported by NSF; this work includes ensuring that project objectives are attained following governing laws, regulations, and EAC evaluation guidance and principles.
Communication and Use Facilitation
Represent EAC and NSF before internal and external audiences: Communicate findings from studies, such as evaluations, to diverse audiences; this includes (1) preparing briefings and presenting to program management and senior leadership on findings, recommendations and lessons learned of strategic importance; (2) planning, directing, coordinating and writing reports, briefs, and scholarly articles in collaboration with colleagues and Agency associates; (3) giving presentations before external audiences, such as academic and professional audiences; and (4) participating in interagency councils or similar collaborative activities across federal government agencies.
Facilitate the use of evaluation findings by program officers: Organize and facilitate meetings, symposia, workshops and other discussion forums to establish a dialogue with stakeholders about findings, recommendations, implications, and lessons learned from EAC studies.
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 (Foreign Talent Definitions). 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.
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 Ph.D. in a Social Science, plus after award of the Ph.D., six or more years of successful research, research administration, and/or managerial experience pertinent to the position.
Experience would preferably be in evaluation of scientific research and education activities or the field of science of science. The incumbent must have a background or a deep understanding of public investments in science programs. Experience with state-of-the-art analytics, business intelligence, and data systems is a plus. A publication record in peer-reviewed journals is also preferred.
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 (All US Citizens OR current NSF employees) who meet citizenship and eligibility requirements.
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
Experience studying and evaluating complex investments in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) programs, including research, research facilities, and education and training programs (particularly those focused on broadening participation in STEM).
Methodological training and research skills, in particular data analytics skills.
Ability to communicate effectively, facilitate dialogue with stakeholders, and work productively with the scientific community, peers, and co-workers at all levels to fulfill NSF's mission.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team.
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 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.
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 uploading must be completed before 11:59 PM Eastern time on the vacancy closing date.
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 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
4215 Eisenhower Ave
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.
Applicants should click ‘Track this Application’ in the Applicant Dashboard to receive application 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 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.
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 uploading must be completed before 11:59 PM Eastern time on the vacancy closing date.
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 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
4215 Eisenhower Ave
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.
Applicants should click ‘Track this Application’ in the Applicant Dashboard to receive application updates.
Fair and transparent
The Federal hiring process is set up to be fair and transparent. Please read the following guidance.
