Launch Your Career as a Personnel Psychologist with the NNSA
In the high-stakes environment of national security, the ability to identify, select, and develop top-tier talent is essential. The National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) is currently searching for a dedicated Personnel Psychologist to serve as a strategic partner within the Office of Human Resources. This role offers the unique opportunity to blend scientific expertise with public service, ensuring the NNSA attracts and retains a workforce capable of tackling the nation's most complex technical challenges.
About the National Nuclear Security Administration
The NNSA is a semi-autonomous agency within the Department of Energy tasked with maintaining the safety, security, and effectiveness of the U.S. nuclear weapons stockpile. Beyond defense, the agency plays a crucial role in international non-proliferation efforts and scientific research. The Office of Human Resources operates as a customer-focused hub, providing innovative, data-driven solutions to support the men and women serving our national security interests.
Job Responsibilities
As a Personnel Psychologist, you will operate as a technical expert for the agency. Your primary responsibilities include:
- Assessment Design: Building end-to-end selection tools, such as cognitive ability tests and structured interviews, tailored to high-stakes leadership and technical roles.
- Applied Research: Designing and directing studies that link assessment scores to real-world performance, turnover, and promotion metrics.
- Advisory Services: Providing evidence-based guidance to senior leadership on workforce planning and human capital policy.
- Training: Educating HR specialists and subject matter experts on best practices for job analysis, consensus rating, and mitigating cognitive biases.
Requirements
To be eligible for this position, applicants must fulfill specific educational and professional criteria:
- Academic Foundation: A bachelor’s degree (or higher) with a major in Psychology.
- Specialized Experience: At least one year of experience equivalent to the NQ-2 or GS-12 level in the Federal service.
- Clearance Requirements: Must be able to obtain and maintain a Q Access security clearance.
- Citizenship: Applicants must be U.S. citizens.
Salary and Compensation Overview
| Pay Variable | Range/Detail |
|---|---|
| Salary Range | $90,925 - $139,684 |
| Interval | Per Year |
| Pay Plan | NQ |
Benefits
Employees of the NNSA enjoy a robust federal benefits package designed to support both professional and personal well-being, including:
- Comprehensive health, vision, and dental insurance options.
- Access to the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- Paid vacation time and federal holidays.
- Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning.
- A culture that embraces work-life balance through telework flexibility.
Application Tips for Success
Applying for a federal position requires meticulous attention to detail. Follow these tips to strengthen your application:
- Be Precise: Your resume must detail your specific duties, dates of employment, and salary history. Generic resumes often fail to capture the specialized experience required for federal review.
- Documentation: Don't forget your unofficial transcripts. Ensure they clearly list the institution, coursework, and degree conferred.
- Prepare for Assessment: The USA Hire assessment is a significant component of the selection process. Set aside enough time to complete it without interruption.
- Monitor Status: Use your USAJOBS account to track your progress and watch for email notifications regarding the next steps.
If you are a Personnel Psychologist eager to apply your skills to one of the most critical missions in the United States, this position with the NNSA is an outstanding opportunity. By fostering a high-performance culture through data-driven HR practices, you will play a direct role in protecting our nation's future. Apply today to secure your chance at this impactful federal career.
Why This Personnel Psychologist Job Matters
Shape the future of our national security workforce as a Personnel Psychologist with the National Nuclear Security Administration.
Personnel Psychologist Job Overview
The National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) is seeking a skilled Personnel Psychologist to join the Office of Human Resources. In this pivotal role, you will lead high-stakes assessment design, validate selection instruments, and drive data-backed human capital strategies to support the agency's critical national security mission. This is an exceptional opportunity to influence organizational development, hiring methodologies, and performance management within a complex, mission-driven enterprise.
Requirements for Personnel Psychologist
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Bachelor's degree or higher in Psychology from an accredited institution.
- At least one year of specialized experience at the NQ-2 or GS-12 grade level.
- Must be able to obtain and maintain a Q Access security clearance.
- Completion of mandatory drug testing and ongoing random testing requirements.
- Male applicants born after 1959 must be registered with the Selective Service.
- Submission of OGE-450 Confidential Financial Disclosure Report.
- Completion of a one-year probationary period may be required.
Preferred Qualifications for Personnel Psychologist
- Advanced experience in developing and validating high-stakes personnel assessment tools such as cognitive ability tests and structured interviews.
- Demonstrated ability to perform large-scale applied research connecting assessment data to organizational performance metrics.
- Strong consultative skills for advising senior leadership on workforce planning and human capital policy.
- Proficiency in developing and delivering training on job analysis and cognitive bias mitigation.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance programs.
- ✓Competitive retirement plans and thrift savings options.
- ✓Paid federal holidays and generous leave accrual.
- ✓Flexible work environments and telework opportunities.
- ✓Career development and leadership training programs.
- ✓Access to agency-wide wellness and professional growth resources.
💡 How to Apply Personnel Psychologist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Personnel Psychologist Job
- Review the full announcement details and requirements thoroughly.
- Prepare a detailed, two-page resume that outlines all relevant paid and unpaid experience.
- Gather necessary documentation, including academic transcripts and current/former SF-50s if applicable.
- Click the Apply Online link to start your application in the USA Staffing system.
- Complete the required application questionnaires and assessments as prompted.
- Submit your final application package before the 11:59 PM (ET) deadline or the 75-application cap.
- Monitor your email for notifications regarding required USA Hire assessments.
💡 General Tips
- Set aside at least three hours for the USA Hire assessments to ensure you can finish them in one sitting.
- Clearly document your work history, including specific dates, salary information, and the number of hours worked per week.
- Ensure your transcripts are legible and clearly show the degree conferred and major.
- If you have a disability and require an accommodation for the online assessments, request it prior to beginning the test.
- Double-check that all performance appraisals or supporting documents for special hiring authorities are uploaded before submission.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the security clearance level for this role?
This position is designated as Critical Sensitive and requires a Q Access Authorization security clearance.
Is telework allowed for this position?
Yes, this role is eligible for telework, allowing for flexible work arrangements in accordance with agency policy.
What happens if the 75-application cap is reached?
The announcement will close immediately upon receiving 75 applications, even if the scheduled closing date of July 23, 2026, has not been reached.
Is a security clearance required?
Yes, this position is designated as Critical Sensitive and requires a Q Access Authorization clearance.
Can I telework in this position?
Yes, the agency supports telework arrangements for this role.
Does this position involve drug testing?
Yes, as a Testing Designated Position, you will be subject to initial and random drug testing.