Become a Physical Science Technician: Supporting the U.S. Navy's Nuclear Fleet
The Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, located in Kittery, Maine, is one of the most critical hubs for the maintenance and repair of the U.S. Navy’s nuclear-powered vessels. We are currently looking for qualified professionals to join our team as a Physical Science Technician. This role is vital to the safety, efficiency, and operational success of our national security missions.
Job Responsibilities
As a Physical Science Technician, your primary focus will be on radiological monitoring and the oversight of complex ship-repair operations. Your duties will include:
- Radiological Oversight: Ensuring all activities involving nuclear propulsion components follow strict safety protocols.
- Incident Management: Acting as a lead responder for radiation-related incidents during ship overhauls.
- Planning and Preparation: Participating in "mock-up" sessions to plan complex maintenance evolutions.
- Safety Enforcement: Monitoring trades personnel to ensure adherence to hazardous material handling and radiation control standards.
Requirements
To qualify for this position, you must possess relevant professional experience. Below is a comparison of typical requirements based on grade level:
| Grade Level | Specialized Experience Requirement | Education Substitution |
|---|---|---|
| GS-7 | 1 year at GS-6 level | 1 year graduate study |
| GS-8 | 1 year at GS-7 level | 1.5 years graduate study |
| GS-9 | 1 year at GS-8 level | Master's Degree |
| GS-10 | 1 year at GS-9 level | Not Applicable |
All applicants must be able to perform physical labor, including climbing and working in cramped shipboard environments.
Salary Overview
The salary for these positions is highly competitive and determined by the GS-pay scale for the respective grade:
- GS-10: $85,659 – $111,352
- GS-9: $77,785 – $101,119
- GS-8: $70,425 – $91,559
- GS-7: $63,592 – $82,674
Benefits
Employees of the Department of the Navy enjoy a robust benefits package, including:
- Health, dental, and vision insurance.
- Federal pension plan and participation in the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- Generous paid time off, including federal holidays and sick leave.
- Opportunities for rapid professional advancement through non-competitive promotion paths.
Application Tips
- Respect the Limit: Your resume must be two pages or less. Submissions exceeding this length will be disregarded.
- Be Data-Driven: Clearly state your pay plan, series, and grade if you have previous federal experience.
- Transcripts: If you are using your education to qualify, attach your transcripts to your initial email. Do not wait for a request.
- Check Your Work: Ensure your resume clearly demonstrates your "Specialized Experience" as outlined in the vacancy requirements.
Serving as a Physical Science Technician at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard is a career-defining opportunity. If you have the technical knowledge and the dedication to ensure the safety of our nuclear-powered vessels, we encourage you to submit your application to the Navy hiring team today.
Why This Physical Science Technician Job Matters
Join the elite team at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard and safeguard the future of the fleet as a Physical Science Technician, where your expertise in radiological control ensures operational excellence.
Physical Science Technician Job Overview
The Department of the Navy is seeking skilled professionals for the position of Physical Science Technician at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard in Kittery, Maine. This role serves within the Radiological Monitoring Division, playing a critical part in the maintenance, overhaul, and refueling of nuclear-powered naval vessels. You will be responsible for upholding rigorous radiological safety standards, managing complex work environments, and providing essential oversight during high-stakes industrial operations. This is a direct hire opportunity under the Defense Industrial Base initiative.
Requirements for Physical Science Technician
- U.S. Citizenship is required.
- Must meet specialized experience requirements equivalent to the GS-6 through GS-9 levels depending on the target grade.
- Proven expertise in radiological control practices, monitoring refueling processes, and responding to complex radiological incidents.
- Detailed knowledge of naval nuclear propulsion plant structures and support systems.
- Ability to work in physically demanding environments, including confined spaces, dry-docks, and areas with potential exposure to hazardous agents.
- Resume must be strictly limited to two pages and include specific dates of employment and grade levels.
- Must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
Preferred Qualifications for Physical Science Technician
- Demonstrated history of serving as a radiological control representative during major maintenance or refueling evolutions.
- Strong analytical skills in casualty analysis and problem-solving within an industrial safety context.
- Experience in technical report writing and documenting deficiencies for safety assessments.
- Prior certification or qualified experience as a Radiological Control Technician.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary structure
- ✓Comprehensive health insurance options
- ✓Federal retirement pension plan
- ✓Thrift Savings Plan (401k equivalent)
- ✓Paid federal holidays and leave accrual
- ✓Professional development and continuous training opportunities
💡 How to Apply Physical Science Technician Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Physical Science Technician Job
- Prepare a resume that does not exceed two pages.
- Ensure the resume clearly outlines specialized experience, including job titles, duties, accomplishments, and hours worked per week.
- Collect necessary supporting documents, such as transcripts if using education to qualify, and military documentation if applicable.
- Email your complete application package to [email protected].
- Use the subject line: PHYSICAL SCIENCE TECHNICIAN.
- Verify that all attachments are legible before submission.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume strictly under the two-page limit; exceeding this will cause your application to be rejected.
- Be as specific as possible regarding your experience with radiological controls and propulsion plant maintenance.
- If using education as a substitute for experience, submit transcripts or a detailed course list immediately; failing to do so will result in an ineligible rating.
- Sanitize sensitive personal information like SSNs from your documents, but have the full versions ready if you are selected for an interview.
- Use the USAJOBS Resume Builder to ensure you capture all required federal employment data, such as series and grade level.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the work environment like for this position?
The work is performed in industrial settings, including shipyards, dry-docks, and on-board vessels. It is physically demanding, requiring climbing, crouching, and working in confined spaces, often under adverse weather conditions.
Can I apply for this position via the USAJobs website?
No. Applications must be sent directly to the email address provided in the job announcement. The USAJobs link is for informational purposes only.
Is a security clearance required?
Yes, this position requires a Secret level security clearance.
Is there a residency requirement?
*A: The position is based in Kittery, Maine. While no specific residency is required at the time of application, you must be available to work on-site.*
Will I be interviewed?
*A: Selecting officials have the discretion to conduct interviews as part of the hiring process.*
Job from United States Fleet Forces Command
The Department of the Navy is dedicated to linking civilian talent with military needs. Working here offers more than just a paycheck; it is an opportunity to contribute directly to the safety and freedom of our nation. As part of the Naval Fleet Forces Command, you will work alongside engineers, scientists, and skilled tradespeople in a high-stakes, collaborative environment.