The individual in this position serves as a Research Infrastructure Advisor under the supervision of the Head, Large Facilities Office (LFO) within the Office of Budget, Finance and Award Management (BFA). LFO is NSF's primary resource for all policies and processes related to the development, implementation, and oversight of large research infrastructure projects which typically cost from $200M to $600M to construct and overall require over $1B per year to operate.
Summary
The individual in this position serves as a Research Infrastructure Advisor under the supervision of the Head, Large Facilities Office (LFO) within the Office of Budget, Finance and Award Management (BFA). LFO is NSF's primary resource for all policies and processes related to the development, implementation, and oversight of large research infrastructure projects which typically cost from $200M to $600M to construct and overall require over $1B per year to operate.
Any U.S. citizen and ICTAP/CTAP eligible employees.
This vacancy announcement is also open to applicants that have Federal status through vacancy BFA-2022-0005 MP.
Incumbent works in the Large Facilities Office (LFO) within the Office of Budget, Finance and Award Management (BFA) providing expert assistance on non-scientific and non-technical aspects of project planning, budgeting, implementation, and management to further strengthen agency oversight. The work includes performing the following duties:
Reviews and assists with development of NSF policies and procedures related to all major facility and mid-scale research infrastructure oversight, with a primary focus on design and construction. The policies and procedures specific to major facilities and mid-scale research infrastructure contained in two documents: the Research Infrastructure Guide (RIG) and the Business System Review (BSR) Guide.
Gathers, analyzes, and synthesizes facts and figures available from project and program records and/or previous evaluation studies in order to prepare or oversee the preparation of tables, graphs, and charts. These activities involve the use of computer software to manipulate data, create presentation materials, and inform talking points that can be interpreted by NSF leadership, senior management, program staff, and the recipient community.
Researches legislation, regulations, policies, procedures, and good practices utilized by other Federal agencies and the private sector. Provides relevant advice regarding the development of NSF’s administrative systems, policies, and procedures necessary to ensure efficient and effective oversight of major facilities including the proper allocation and management of awarded funds.
Develops written reports and conducts oral presentations on proposals, panel recommendations, findings, and project status. Periodically analyzes and drafts documents including position papers, supporting justifications, and memoranda on a variety of subjects including special reports dealing with BFA activities and issues. Represents LFO and BFA management in briefings to a variety of stakeholders on issues both internal and external to the agency related to major facilities and mid-scale research infrastructure.
When serving in a liaison role the Research Infrastructure Advisor routinely supports the NSF Program Officer in oversight, on a routine basis, with the following actions:
Assists with planning, organizing, conducting, and documenting external panel reviews of the recipient’s development of project cost, scope, and schedule during the Design Stage and the recipient’s management of major facilities during the Construction and Operations Stages.
Plans periodic internal seminars at NSF to share lessons learned, and good practices for various aspects of management and oversight of major facilities including the Program Officer’s Forum and annual Research Infrastructure Workshops.
Acts as a Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR) for contracts related to LFO oversight role including but not limited to BSR’s, Independent Cost Estimates, and other support to LFO and/or the agency.
Assesses vulnerabilities in major facility and mid-scale research infrastructure awards, leads the strategies for minimization and oversee risk management activities including all the processes - planning, identification, analysis, mitigation, and monitoring of risks, as well as utilization of a variety of quantitative and qualitative tools.
Finally, in close coordination with the Program Officer and other BFA and NSF staff, the Research Infrastructure Advisor routinely:
Provides an independent assessment to the Head, LFO for stage-gate reviews during the Design Stage, and for other project reviews and site visits as needed.
Follows-up on action items resulting from NSF reviews, Government Accounting Office (GAO) reviews, Office of the Inspector General (OIG) audits, Integrated Project Team meetings, and BSR’s as necessary.
Provides advice regarding responses to Congress and other stakeholders on research infrastructure-related inquiries and on the effect of proposed policies and procedures.
Selective Service registration required for male applicants, unless exempt.
Selectee may be required to serve a 1-year trial/probationary period
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
To ensure compliance with an applicable preliminary nationwide injunction, which may be supplemented, modified, or vacated, depending on the course of ongoing litigation, the Federal Government will take no action to implement or enforce the COVID-19 vaccination requirement Safer Federal Workforce Task Force 2 pursuant to Executive Order 14043 on Requiring Coronavirus Disease 2019 Vaccination for Federal Employees. Therefore, to the extent a Federal job announcement includes the requirement that applicants must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 pursuant to Executive Order 14043, that requirement does not currently apply. Federal agencies may request information regarding the vaccination status of selected applicants for the purposes of implementing other workplace safety protocols, such as protocols related to masking, physical distancing, testing, travel, and quarantine.
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.
You must answer all job-related questions in the NSF eRecruit questionnaire; and any additional assessment requested.
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 represented by AFGE Local 3403.
Qualifications
To qualify at GS-14, you need to possess at least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-13 level in the Federal service. An example of specialized experience is advising management on the development and implementation, and management of a program for the planning, construction, or operation of research infrastructure.
To qualify at GS-15, you need to possess at least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-14 level in the Federal service. An example of specialized experience is advising senior management and leadership on the development, implementation, and impacts of a program for the planning, construction, or operation of research infrastructure.
The ideal candidate should possess: 1. A high degree of general knowledge of, and experience with, the planning and management of large, scientific facilities similar to the NSF's. 2. The ability to apply his/her knowledge to help plan and execute a broad oversight program that will vary due to the complexity and diversity of NSF's Facility projects. 3. Strong interpersonal relationship skills and a proven ability to work effectively and collaboratively in small teams and a diverse set of stakeholders toward the achievement of common goals. 4. Effectiveness at developing and negotiating the implementation of recommendations with NSF staff and award Recipients related to improving project management as well as NSF oversight and assurance.
Education
Education may enhance skills required for this position; however, no substitution of education for specialized experience may be made at this level.
Additional information
Relocation Expenses will not be paid.
Interagency Career Transition Assistance Program (ICTAP): ICTAP and CTAP provide eligible displaced Federal competitive service employees with selection priority over other candidates for competitive service vacancies. If your agency has notified you in writing that you are a displaced employee eligible for ICTAP or CTAP consideration, you may receive selection priority if: 1) this vacancy is within your ICTAP or CTAP eligibility; 2) you apply under the instructions in this announcement; and 3) you are found well-qualified for this vacancy. To be well-qualified you must meet the following: OPM qualification requirements for the position, all selective factors, where applicable; special OPM approved qualifying conditions for the position; is physically qualified with reasonable accommodation, where appropriate, to satisfactorily perform the duties of the position upon entry; and receives a rating of at least “Very Good” on the questionnaire. You must provide proof of eligibility with your application to receive selection priority. Such proof may include a copy of your written notification of ICTAP or CTAP eligibility, or a copy of your separation personnel action form. Additional information regarding ICTAP or CTAP eligibility is available from OPM's Career Transition Resources
Veteran's Preference: If you are entitled to veterans' preference, you should indicate the type of veterans' preference you are claiming on your resume. Your veterans' preference entitlement will be verified by the employing agency. For 5-point veterans' preference, please provide your DD-214 (Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty), official statement of service from your command if you are currently on active duty, or other official documentation (e.g., documentation of receipt of a campaign badge or expeditionary medal) that proves your military service was performed under honorable conditions. For 10-point veterans' preference, please submit a Standard Form (SF) 15, Application for 10-Point Veteran Preference, DD-214, and the VA letter or other required documentation as specified on the SF-15.
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.
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.
Category rating procedures will be used to rank and select eligibles. Based on your responses to the occupational questionnaire, you will be assigned a score. Your score will determine in which of three categories you will be placed: Excellent, Very Good, or Good. Under this process, veterans will be assigned to the appropriate category (without additional preference points) and then placed at the top of their category.
Veterans with service-connected disability of 10% or more will be placed at the top of the highest quality category.
The information contained in your resume and supporting documentation will be compared to your responses to the Occupational Questionnaire to determine the degree to which you meet the competencies required of this position. Please ensure you answer all questions accurately. Your responses are subject to verification. In support of your responses provided in the Occupational Questionnaire, your resume should include verbiage that describes your experience relative to the position for which you are applying and provide examples that show the depth of knowledge, level of skill, or degree of ability you possess. If your application does not support your responses to the Occupational Questionnaire or your application is not complete, this may result in adjustments to your score, or result in your name being removed from further consideration.
In some cases, additional assessment processes may be used.
Applicants eligible for selection preference under the Interagency Career Transition Assistance Plan (ICTAP) or CTAP must meet the agency definition of "well qualified." In NSF categories, this means at least “Very Good" with a score of 90.
COMPETENCIES:
Project Management to include Earned Value Management
Risk Management
Communications, stakeholder engagement and coalition building
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 should submit a resume/CV of their choice, and may also submit a cover letter.
Additional Documents, if applicable, may include:
Veteran's Preference Documentation (DD-214, VA Letter, and SF-15): If you are eligible and claiming 5-point veteran's preference, you MUST submit a copy of your "member copy 4 version" DD-214 or other proof of eligibility. If you are claiming 10-point veteran's preference, you MUST submit a copy of your DD-214, SF-15, "Application for 10-Point Veterans' Preference" and the VA letter or other documentation required by the SF-15. (Please note: An SF-50, Notification of Personnel Action, showing veterans' preference will not be accepted as proof of entitlement.)
CTAP/ICTAP Documentation: If you are applying under CTAP or ICTAP, you MUST submit proof of eligibility under 5 CFR 330.602(a) for CTAP and 5 CFR 330.704 for ICTAP. This includes a copy of the agency notice, a copy of your most recent performance rating, and a copy of your most recent SF-50 (Notification of Personnel Action) showing your position, grade level, and duty location. Please annotate your application to reflect that you are applying as a CTAP or ICTAP eligible.
Performance appraisals and awards may be considered during the evaluation process if voluntarily submitted.
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 should be submitted online and must be completed and all required documents successfully uploaded before 11:59 PM Eastern time on the 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.
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) 292-5090 for assistance.
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.
All applicants should submit a resume/CV of their choice, and may also submit a cover letter.
Additional Documents, if applicable, may include:
Veteran's Preference Documentation (DD-214, VA Letter, and SF-15): If you are eligible and claiming 5-point veteran's preference, you MUST submit a copy of your "member copy 4 version" DD-214 or other proof of eligibility. If you are claiming 10-point veteran's preference, you MUST submit a copy of your DD-214, SF-15, "Application for 10-Point Veterans' Preference" and the VA letter or other documentation required by the SF-15. (Please note: An SF-50, Notification of Personnel Action, showing veterans' preference will not be accepted as proof of entitlement.)
CTAP/ICTAP Documentation: If you are applying under CTAP or ICTAP, you MUST submit proof of eligibility under 5 CFR 330.602(a) for CTAP and 5 CFR 330.704 for ICTAP. This includes a copy of the agency notice, a copy of your most recent performance rating, and a copy of your most recent SF-50 (Notification of Personnel Action) showing your position, grade level, and duty location. Please annotate your application to reflect that you are applying as a CTAP or ICTAP eligible.
Performance appraisals and awards may be considered during the evaluation process if voluntarily submitted.
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 should be submitted online and must be completed and all required documents successfully uploaded before 11:59 PM Eastern time on the 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.
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) 292-5090 for assistance.
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.
