Advance Public Health: Physicist and Electronics Engineer Role at the DHA
Are you looking to apply your technical expertise to a mission that matters? The Defense Health Agency (DHA) is currently hiring for an Interdisciplinary Physicist or Electronics Engineer to join the Defense Centers for Public Health in Aberdeen, Maryland. This role is a cornerstone in ensuring that the Department of Defense maintains the highest safety standards regarding nonionizing radiation.
Job Responsibilities
The selected professional will tackle complex technical challenges, including:
- Radiation Assessment: Evaluate various sources of nonionizing radiation, including radars, lasers, and advanced electronic countermeasures.
- Hazard Mitigation: Identify potential hazards, recommend robust mitigation strategies, and draft formal reports with actionable conclusions.
- Policy Development: Author, publish, and enforce procedures, measurement techniques, and compliance regulations.
- Technical Oversight: Provide leadership for work teams conducting site evaluations and technical analyses.
Comparison: Physicist vs. Electronics Engineer Requirements
| Feature | Physicist Path | Electronics Engineer Path |
|---|---|---|
| Core Degree | Bachelor's in Physics or related field | ABET-accredited Engineering degree |
| Coursework | 24 Semester hours in physics | Advanced calculus and five engineering science areas |
| Specialized Experience | 1 year at GS-12 equivalent | 1 year at GS-12 equivalent |
| Equivalency | Education/Experience combo accepted | Licensure/FE exam/Experience combo accepted |
Requirements for Success
To be considered for this high-level position, you must be a U.S. citizen and possess one year of specialized experience at the GS-12 grade level. Your experience must demonstrate proficiency in evaluating nonionizing radiation, maintaining safety policies, and testing electronic systems.
Application Requirements:
- Resume: Strictly limited to two pages.
- Transcripts: Mandatory if qualifying based on educational requirements.
- Documentation: Proof of eligibility for any federal hiring preferences.
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $121,785 to $158,322 per year. Beyond the financial compensation, employees enjoy the comprehensive federal benefits package, which includes:
- Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB)
- Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) matching
- Generous vacation and sick leave accrual
- Career longevity and pension prospects
Application Tips
- Respect the Constraints: The two-page limit on your resume is strict. Tailor your content to focus on the specialized experience requested.
- Avoid Jargon: Write for a human reader. Avoid obscure acronyms.
- Detail Matters: For every past position, ensure you list the start/end dates, hours per week, and a clear description of your responsibilities.
This position offers a rare opportunity to serve those who defend our nation while advancing your career in the fields of physics and engineering. If you meet the criteria and are ready for the challenge, ensure your application is submitted by August 21, 2026.
Why This Interdisciplinary (Physicist/Electronics Engineer) Job Matters
Protect the health of those who protect our nation by applying your expertise in physics or electronics engineering to critical nonionizing radiation safety initiatives.
Interdisciplinary (Physicist/Electronics Engineer) Job Overview
The Defense Health Agency (DHA) is seeking a highly skilled Interdisciplinary Physicist or Electronics Engineer to join the Defense Centers for Public Health in Aberdeen, Maryland. This vital role focuses on the evaluation of nonionizing radiation sources—such as radars, lasers, and electronic countermeasures—to ensure the safety and health of service members and their families. As a key technical advisor, you will influence safety policies, conduct complex hazard assessments, and provide essential oversight within an integrated healthcare environment.
Requirements for Interdisciplinary (Physicist/Electronics Engineer)
- U.S. Citizenship is required.
- Must meet specific education requirements: Bachelor's degree or higher in Physics (with 24 semester hours of specific physics coursework) OR an ABET-accredited Engineering degree (or equivalent).
- One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-12 level in the Federal service.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
- Must live within or relocate to a commutable distance of Aberdeen, MD.
- Submission of a resume that does not exceed the two-page limit.
- Must pass a one-year probationary period.
Preferred Qualifications for Interdisciplinary (Physicist/Electronics Engineer)
- Proven experience in evaluating nonionizing radiation hazards.
- Expertise in developing and publishing technical policies and compliance regulations.
- Demonstrated ability to lead technical work teams and manage complex electronic system evaluations.
- Professional licensure or certification, such as an Engineer in Training (EIT) or Professional Engineer (PE) credential.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive health insurance plans for employees and families.
- ✓Federal retirement benefits, including pension and Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- ✓Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
- ✓Access to life insurance and flexible spending accounts.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development within the Department of Defense.
- ✓Competitive salary structure with locality pay adjustments.
💡 How to Apply Interdisciplinary (Physicist/Electronics Engineer) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Interdisciplinary (Physicist/Electronics Engineer) Job
- Log in to your USAJOBS account or create a new profile.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less, clearly documenting your specialized experience.
- Complete the mandatory online questionnaire via the provided application link.
- Upload all required supporting documentation, including academic transcripts, if relying on education to qualify.
- Submit your application package before the deadline of 11:59 PM EST on August 21, 2026.
- Monitor your status via your USAJOBS dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Adhere strictly to the two-page resume limit; excess pages will result in immediate disqualification.
- Use plain language and avoid internal jargon or obscure acronyms to ensure clarity for HR reviewers.
- Clearly state hours worked per week and specific months/years for each relevant professional role.
- Verify that your uploaded transcripts clearly indicate your coursework if you are applying based on educational requirements.
- Allow sufficient time for document uploads, as virus scanning may delay the final submission process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position eligible for remote work?
No. This role is based in Aberdeen, MD, and is eligible only for ad hoc or situational telework. It does not qualify for full-time or remote work status.
What is the security clearance requirement?
This position is classified as Noncritical-Sensitive (NCS) and requires the ability to obtain and maintain a Secret-level security clearance.
Can I negotiate my salary?
Yes, salary negotiation may be available for candidates who are new to the Federal government service.
What is the security level?
You must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret clearance.
Is relocation covered?
No, payment for Permanent Change of Station (PCS) costs is not authorized.
Job from Defense Health Agency
The Defense Health Agency is a vital integrated healthcare system serving millions of service members, retirees, and their families. By bridging the gap between clinical excellence and combat support, the DHA ensures that medical, dental, and pharmacy programs are delivered effectively worldwide. Working at the Defense Centers for Public Health (DCPH-A) means being part of a dedicated team that prioritizes safety and readiness.