STEM Assistant (Interdisciplinary)

Summary The U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) is seeking qualified candidates for STEM Assistant positions. These positions may be established within any NSF Directorate/Office. For more information, visit http://www.nsf.gov/. This announcement will close on May 18, 2026, or once 200 applications are received, whichever occurs first. Learn more about this agency Duties The STEM Assistant provides programmatic, analytical, and administrative support to NSF program staff in the development, coordination, and execution of merit review activities and related research initiatives. This entry- to early-career position supports the full lifecycle of the merit review process, while also contributing to research, data analysis, and the development of programmatic reports and materials. The STEM Assistant plays a critical role in strengthening and supporting NSF's merit review process, enhancing data-driven decision-making, and advancing program portfolios. This position provides a pathway to higher-level analytical or program management roles. Major Duties Merit Review Support Coordinate logistics for merit review panels, including scheduling meetings, managing calendars, and supporting virtual or in-person sessions. Assist in the preparation and distribution of panel materials and documentation for merit review. Provide real-time support during review meetings, including note-taking. Maintain accurate records of review meeting proceedings. Reviewer Identification and Support Conduct research to identify and recommend potential reviewers. Assist in outreach and communication with prospective reviewers. Maintain reviewer databases. Programmatic and Analytical Support Conduct background research and literature reviews. Compile, analyze, and summarize data. Prepare reports and briefing materials. Solicitation and Documentation Development Assist in drafting and editing program solicitations and other communications. Review documents for clarity and consistency. Administrative and Operational Support Provide administrative support and track deadlines. Ensure compliance with policies. Performs other duties as assigned. Requirements Conditions of employment This position is outside the competitive civil service. Selectee will be required to have a background investigation prior to onboarding. Selectee may be required to serve a 2-year trial period. You must meet eligibility and qualification requirements by the closing date of the announcement. All online applicants must provide a valid email address. If your email address is inaccurate or your mailbox is full/blocked, you may not receive important communication that could affect your consideration for this position. It is NSF policy that personnel employed at, or Intergovernmental Personnel Act (IPA) individuals detailed to, NSF are not permitted to participate in foreign 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. 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. Qualifications To qualify for this position, candidates must have successfully completed a full 4-year course of study in an accredited institution leading to a bachelor's or higher degree in one of the following: For the 0101 series, a degree in behavioral or social science; or related disciplines appropriate to the position. For the 0401 series, a degree in biological sciences, agriculture, natural resource management, chemistry, or related disciplines appropriate to the position. For the 0801 series, a degree in engineering to include those specialty engineering fields. For the 1301 series, a degree in physical science, engineering, or mathematics. For the 1501 series, a degree in mathematics, statistics, or actuarial science. For the 1701 series, a degree in education or in a subject-matter field appropriate to the position. Transcripts (official or unofficial) that include the degree date of conferral must be upload prior to the closing date of the vacancy in order to be considered for this position. Education Please refer to the Qualifications section. If your degree was obtained from a foreign institution, you must submit the certification from the Association for International Credential Evaluation Professionals, or certification equivalency. Additional information Relocation expenses MAY be paid contingent upon the availability of funds. This announcement is open to All U.S. Citizens who meet citizenship and eligibility requirements. This announcement may be used to fill like positions in other organizations within the National Science Foundation. Expand Hide  additional information Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution. Benefits 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.