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This is the position of Astrophysicist (Technical Assistant) in the Chandra X-ray Center (CXC) Data System Operations/Archives Group of the High Energy Astrophysics Division, Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory.
Learn more about this agency11/29/2022 to 02/10/2023
$64,251 - $101,055 per year
IS 09 - 11
1 vacancy in the following location:
No
Yes—as determined by the agency policy.
Occasional travel - Occasional travel to scientific conferences, to observing facilities and/or technical collaboration meetings may be required.
No
Permanent -
Full-time - Full time
Competitive
11
No
No
23-23
691560200
This position is open to all qualified candidates. First consideration may be made 14 days after the opening date. Selection to be made at the grade 09 or grade 11. If selected at the grade 09 the applicant maybe non competitively promoted to the higher grade level up to the grade 11 level upon the recommendation of the supervisor based on classification requirements, satisfactory performance and qualifications of the employee.
The purpose of the position is two-fold: (1) to provide technical support for the operation of the Chandra Data Archive; and (2) provide computer-related support of X-ray astronomy operations and research with the Observatory, including coding, modifying, testing, and maintaining software for archive operations; developing and maintaining documentation; and drafting and maintaining materials for websites.
5 Performs other related duties as assigned.
In addition to the duties above duties at the grade 11 may include but are not limited to:
Basic Requirements:
A. Degree: in one or a combination of astronomy, physics, mathematics, space science, or electronics. The course work must have included differential and integral calculus and 12 semester hours in astronomy and/or physics.
OR
B. Combination of education and experience -- at least 30 semester hours of courses equivalent to a major in any combination of astronomy, space science, physics, mathematics, and electronics, with required course work as shown in A above, plus appropriate experience or additional education.
In addition to the basic requirements, candidates for the grade 09 must also possess one of the following:
2 years of progressively higher level graduate education leading to a master's degree or master's or equivalent graduate degree
or 1 year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-07 level in the normal line of progression for this occupation. Specialized experience is experience that has equipped the applicant with the particular competencies/knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform the duties of the position such as experience in the operations of an astronomical mission or astronomical data archive.
or Combination of successfully completed graduate level education and experience equivalent to the above.
In addition to the basic requirements, candidates for the grade 11 must also possess one of the following:
3 years of progressively higher level graduate education leading to a Ph.D. degree or Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree or
1 year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-09 level in the normal line of progression for this occupation. Specialized experience is experience that has equipped the applicant with the particular competencies/knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform the duties of the position such as experience in the operations of an astronomical mission and astronomical data archive, and the analysis of astronomical data.
or Combination of successfully completed graduate level education and experience equivalent to the above.
Qualification requirements are derived from the Office of Personnel Management's Qualification Standards Handbook for General Schedule Positions viewable on the web at http://www.opm.gov/qualifications/Standards/IORs/gs1300/1330.htm. Qualification requirements must be met within 30 days after the closing date of announcement.
For the latest information on the COVID-19 vaccination requirements and its impact on your application, click on Smithsonian Institution’s Frequently Asked Questions.
You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.
You will be evaluated to determine if you meet the minimum qualifications required; and on the extent to which your application shows that you possess the criteria associated with this position as defined below.
Your application package must include the following documents:
Detailed resume/Curriculum Vitae (CV)
School transcripts or degree certificate
Proof of U.S. accreditation for foreign study, if applicable
Summary of research interests (1-2 pages)
Names, addresses, email addresses and telephone numbers of three professional references
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.
Click on the "Apply Online" button on the upper right side of the page.
Please Note:
You will receive an e-mail to acknowledge that your application has been received. Please be aware that the confirmation e-mail could reside in your "junk" or "bulk" mail folder depending on your filters.
The Federal hiring process is set up to be fair and transparent. Please read the following guidance.
This job originated on www.usajobs.gov. For the full announcement and to apply, visit www.usajobs.gov/job/691560200. Only resumes submitted according to the instructions on the job announcement listed at www.usajobs.gov will be considered.
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The Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory is part of what is arguably the largest and most diverse astrophysical institution in the world, where the staff carries out a broad program of research in astronomy, astrophysics and earth and space sciences. If you would like to join this exciting organization, apply today!
