NSF is one of the best places to work! In 2021, NSF was ranked No. 2 among mid-sized agencies in the Best Places to Work in the Federal Government® Rankings. Come join our talented and diverse workforce and help us keep NSF at the frontier of discovery!
NSF is seeking qualified candidate for a General Engineer (Program Director) position for the Engineering Research Center Program in the Division of Engineering Education and Centers (EEC) in Alexandria, VA. Click here for more information.
Summary
NSF is one of the best places to work! In 2021, NSF was ranked No. 2 among mid-sized agencies in the Best Places to Work in the Federal Government® Rankings. Come join our talented and diverse workforce and help us keep NSF at the frontier of discovery!
NSF is seeking qualified candidate for a General Engineer (Program Director) position for the Engineering Research Center Program in the Division of Engineering Education and Centers (EEC) in Alexandria, VA. Click here for more information.
Applications will be accepted from all US citizens who meet citizenship and eligibility requirements. Please see the "Other Information" section for further information.
The ERC program was launched in 1985 and it continues to be a landmark program in federal support for university research and education in partnership with industry. These centers provide an interdisciplinary environment where academe and industry focus together on advances in complex engineered systems that can transform industrial processes, develop new product lines, and/or build new infrastructures important for the Nation’s future. They create an interdisciplinary culture that joins discovery to innovation to explore technological realities through proof-of-concept testbeds and prepare the future engineering professional workforce. Now in their third generation, ERCs establish innovation ecosystems, which include: partnerships with center member firms/practitioners to strengthen the ERC and streamline technology transfer; translational research partnerships with small firms to accelerate commercialization of high risk ERC advancements; and innovation partnerships with local organizations to stimulate entrepreneurship and job creation as well as enable technological innovation.
The successful candidate will be a member of the team of Program Directors and staff responsible for the selection and post-award oversight of centers. The incumbent will also coordinate with the other ERC program directors and EEC members to synthesize the outcomes/metrics from the centers’ research, workforce development, and innovation ecosystem efforts and help develop future solicitations.
NSF Program Directors bear the primary responsibility for carrying out the NSF’s overall mission to support innovative and merit-evaluated activities in fundamental research and education that contribute to the nation's technological strength, security and welfare. This responsibility requires knowledge in the appropriate disciplines, along with a commitment to high standards, a considerable breadth of interest and receptivity to new ideas, a strong sense of fairness, good judgment, and a high degree of personal integrity.
PROGRAM PLANNING AND MANAGEMENT
Implements proposal review and evaluation processes, and scientific/technical review of proposals. This includes the ability to recognize the essential characteristics of the proposed project and the ability to evaluate the significance of its objectives to the NSF mission.
Monitors program resources so as to provide optimal appropriate scientific judgement to insure integrity and consistency in the grant/declination process without conflict-of-interests, and with balance among appropriate sub-fields and institutions, and participation of all qualified scientists.
Incorporates cross-directorate responsibilities into program administration
Administers an effective, timely merit review process, with attention to increasing the size and quality of the reviewers pools and insuring participation by women, minorities and disabled scientists.
Provides scientific evaluation and advice for other programs in NSF, including international and cross-directorate programs.
Assists in the development of short- and long-range plans, establishing objectives for research programs, and program evaluation.
Assists in planning the program budget and allocating resources with that budget among major competitive programs.
REPRESENTATION, COMMUNICATION AND LEADERSHIP
Represents the Program, Division, and Foundation, within the scientific community, with other NSF Divisions, other agencies and organizations, and the public, accurately reflecting NSF policy and positions.
Creates and maintains linkages to other NSF units and other Federal agencies in pursuit of the overall NSF mission.
Participates in staff, panel, committee and other meetings, providing input relevant to Program area/or Division.
Responds to assignments on special projects and temporary functional teams across the Foundation to solve problems, improve staff communication, and effect coordination.
Prepares and disseminates a variety of informational documents.
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
Establishes contacts and maintains active involvement in program and related areas through participation in professional activities. Maintains familiarity and salient current research developments. Pursues individual research as workload and travel funds permit.
Expands administrative capabilities through training courses or assumption of new management responsibilities.
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.
Applicant may be required to complete a background security investigation before being 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 represented by AFGE Local 3403.
Please preview "Evaluations" section and "Qualifications" for additional requirements and Quality Ranking Factors.
Qualifications
Candidates must have a Ph.D. in Engineering, plus after award of the Ph.D., six or more years of successful research, research administration, and/or managerial experience pertinent to the position. You must identify the date that your degree was obtained.
The incumbent is expected to function effectively both as individual within the specific NSF program and as a member of crosscutting and interactive teams. Experience with center-level research organizations is desirable. The incumbent must also demonstrate a capability to work across government agencies to promote NSF activities and to leverage program funds through interagency collaborations.
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
In-depth knowledge and expertise in specialty areas of engineering and/or science and familiarity with the engineering and/or science research community.
Knowledge of the principles, concepts, methods, and techniques of basic science, engineering research, and science policy to analyze research efforts.
Knowledge of the administrative/operational aspects of Federal funding mechanisms such as grants, contracts, cooperative agreements, and other contractual arrangements to perform assigned functions.
Ability to compile, evaluate and present technical and scientific information.
Knowledge of the collection, arrangement, and organization of data to prepare tables, charts, graphs, summaries, and other materials for effective presentation of research results and for inclusion in publications.
Knowledge of computer systems, methods and applications.
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.
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) 292-5090 for assistance.
IMPORTANT NOTE: PLEASE DO NOT INCLUDE YOUR SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER OR DATE OF BIRTH ON YOUR APPLICATION DOCUMENTS.
NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION
2415 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 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.
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) 292-5090 for assistance.
IMPORTANT NOTE: PLEASE DO NOT INCLUDE YOUR SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER OR DATE OF BIRTH ON YOUR APPLICATION DOCUMENTS.
NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION
2415 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.
