Engineering Technician (Materials Research)

Summary The Engineering Laboratory (EL) promotes U.S. innovation and industrial competitiveness by advancing measurement science, standards, and technology for engineered systems in ways that enhance economic security and improve quality of life. The Engineering Technician provides essential technical support to various research projects conducted within the Division's laboratories by utilizing advanced precision research apparatuses and sophisticated measurement devices. Learn more about this agency Duties ZT-III: The Engineering Technician employs a variety of complex precision research apparatuses and measurement devices in consultation with scientists and engineers that advance the measurement of material properties. s design and improve research plans to study how materials break down when exposed to heat, humidity, and UV light. Collects and analyzes data for several projects at once. Follows existing data rules or creates new ones when a project needs a unique approach. Researches new equipment, writes technical specs for purchases, and manages service contracts. ZT-IV: The Engineering Technician provides essential technical support to various research projects conducted within the Division's laboratories by utilizing advanced precision research apparatuses and sophisticated measurement devices, in close collaboration with researchers. Contributes technical expertise to the development, evaluation, and refinement of research plans and experimental testing procedures, focused on advancing the understanding and measurement of material properties and material degradation mechanisms over time when exposed to environmental stressors including UV, temperature and RH. Manages data collection and analysis for multiple research projects, following lead researcher-identified protocols or creating new data collection protocols for specific project needs. Oversees assigned laboratory spaces and equipment to ensure a safe, high-efficiency environment that streamlines the execution of experimental projects. Performs administrative tasks to prepare procurement packages, service agreements, and credit card purchases to effectively maintain laboratory operations. This includes conducting in-depth market research to establish technical specifications for acquisition of new laboratory equipment and ensure effective acquisition by serving as Technical Point of Contact or Contracting Officer Representative (COR-Level1) during procurement phase. Plays a lead role in safety by identifying hazards and unsafe practices across all current and proposed laboratory activities during execution of experimental projects. Develops clear and concise Hazard Review (HR) documentation to proactively evaluate and eliminate potential risks. Requirements Conditions of employment U.S. citizenship Males born after 12-31-59 must be registered for Selective Service Suitable for Federal employment Must meet time-in-grade/band requirements, as applicable Satisfactory completion of a pre-employment medical examination Bargaining Unit Position: No Qualifications To qualify at the ZT-III Level: Applicants must have at least one year (52 weeks) of specialized experience equivalent to a GS-08 grade level (ZT-II for NIST employees) in the Federal service. Specialized experience includes conducting high-energy weathering experiments (SPHERE) and characterizing material degradation via advanced spectroscopy (FTIR, Raman, NMR, UV/Vis), microscopy (SEM, Confocal), and synchrotron-based techniques. This includes the design, troubleshooting, and repair of laboratory prototypes-incorporating precision soldering and circuit maintenance-alongside the development of computer-based automation and data analysis pipelines using Python, LabTalk, and Origin. Furthermore, it involves the expert operation of specialized software (OPUS, OMNIC, TESCAN), the execution of carbon/sulfur combustion analysis (LECO CS744) including preventative maintenance, and the synthesis of complex datasets for technical reporting. OR Two full years of graduate education in a directly related field. OR Master's degree in a directly related field. OR A combination of education in a directly related field and specialized experience. To qualify at the ZT-IV Level: Applicants must have one year (52 Weeks) of specialized experience equivalent to a GS-10 grade level (ZT-III for NIST employees) in the Federal service. Specialized experience includes leading research milestones and co-authoring technical publications while executing high-energy weathering experiments (SPHERE) and characterizing material degradation via advanced spectroscopy (FTIR, Raman, NMR, UV/Vis), microscopy (SEM, Confocal), and synchrotron-based techniques. This role involves the high-level design, troubleshooting, and repair of laboratory prototypes-incorporating precision soldering and circuit maintenance-alongside developing computer-based automation and data analysis pipelines using Python, LabTalk, and Origin. Furthermore, it requires the expert operation of specialized software (OPUS, OMNIC, TESCAN), the execution of carbon/sulfur combustion analysis (LECO CS744), and the synthesis of complex datasets for formal technical presentations to scientific audiences. 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. The qualification requirements in this vacancy announcement are based on the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Qualification Standards Handbook. If requesting reconsideration of your qualification determination, please refer to the following site: Section 14: Reconsideration of Qualification Determinations | NIST Education This position allows applicants to qualify with education. Transcripts must be submitted to validate that the education requirement has been met. Unofficial transcripts will be accepted in the application package. However, an official copy will be required before a final offer of employment. Use of foreign education for qualifications. An accredited organization must evaluate education completed outside of the U.S. to ensure that it is comparable to education received in accredited institutions in the U.S. Click here to view a listing of accredited organizations from the Department of Education's website. A copy of the foreign education evaluation (containing the results with a course-by-course listing) is required with your application. Additional information This position is covered under NIST's Alternative Personnel Management System (APMS), a pay-for-performance system with excellent HR flexibilities to help NIST recruit and retain top talent. Learn more about the APMS here! We may share your application package with other selecting officials. Additional selections may be made through this vacancy. Click all links in this vacancy announcement to view additional information or instructions. You MUST select at least ONE ELIGIBILITY to be considered for this position. All documents submitted for this announcement must be legible to make qualification or eligibility determinations. A probationary period may be required. This position has physical requirements which include but may not be limited to: Moderate lifting, 15-44 pounds Light lifting, under 15 pounds Moderate carrying, 45 pounds and over Light carrying, under 15 pounds Reaching above shoulder Use of fingers Both hands required Walking 2 hours Standing 4 hours Kneeling 1 hour Repeated bending 2 hours Climbing, use of legs and arms Both legs required Operation of crane, truck, tractor, or motor vehicle Ability for rapid mental and muscular coordination simultaneously Both eyes required Depth perception Ability to distinguish shades of colors Hearing (aid may be permitted) Hearing without aid This position has environmental factors which include but may not be limited to: Outside Outside and inside Constant noise Dust Solvents (degreasing agents) Grease and oils Slippery or uneven walking surfaces Working around machinery with moving parts Working around moving objects or vehicles Working on ladders or scaffolding Working below ground Working with hands in water Working closely with others Working alone NIST strives to build a flexible and encouraging work environment to bring out the best in our employees. To help our employees balance responsibilities at home and at work, NIST offers a variety of work-life flexibilities. For more information, please visit our Careers website. 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. Review our 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.