Advanced Microscopy Engineer: Shaping the Future of Material Measurement at NIST
The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is currently seeking a highly skilled Advanced Microscopy Engineer to join its Material Measurement Laboratory in Gaithersburg, Maryland. This role offers an unparalleled opportunity to work at the intersection of material science, advanced optical engineering, and data analysis. If you are passionate about contributing to the development of critical technology standards and possess the technical acumen to push the boundaries of microscopy, we invite you to explore this career-defining role.
Job Responsibilities
As an Advanced Microscopy Engineer, your daily work will be both diverse and intellectually stimulating. You will be tasked with:
- Planning and conducting complex research in advanced optical microscopy methods.
- Designing, constructing, and maintaining high-precision optical microscopes.
- Developing custom control software to automate and enhance microscopic data collection.
- Performing rigorous analysis of spectroscopic data, including Raman and Brillouin scattering.
- Authoring technical reports and journal publications to disseminate research findings to the broader scientific community.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, applicants must meet specific educational and professional benchmarks.
| Requirement | Criteria |
|---|---|
| Education | Bachelor's degree in engineering (ABET accredited) or equivalent. |
| Specialized Experience | At least 1 year equivalent to GS-9/ZP-II in microscopy design or related fields. |
| Technical Skills | Brillouin/Raman scattering, control software development, material characterization. |
| Documentation | 2-page resume limit (PDF), proof of education (transcripts required). |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive salary range of $85,447 to $133,142 per year. Compensation is managed under the NIST Alternative Personnel Management System (APMS), which emphasizes pay-for-performance and provides excellent flexibility for employees.
Benefits
NIST is committed to a supportive and flexible work environment. Employees benefit from:
- A focus on work-life balance through flexible scheduling and telework options.
- Professional development opportunities within a leading scientific research organization.
- Access to advanced laboratory equipment and interdisciplinary research projects.
- Comprehensive federal benefits packages including health, retirement, and leave programs.
Application Tips
Applying for a federal position requires precision. To maximize your chances:
- Resume Formatting: Strict compliance with the two-page limit is mandatory. Use 11-point font or larger to ensure readability.
- Customization: Tailor your application narrative to the specific technical skills required, such as Raman scattering and control software development.
- Timeliness: Do not wait until the last minute. Submit your application early to avoid technical issues.
This role is more than just a job; it is a chance to influence how the world measures the building blocks of technology. If you are an engineer dedicated to high-level research and automated optical design, we look forward to receiving your application.
Why This Advanced Microscopy Engineer Job Matters
Join the forefront of material innovation at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) as an Advanced Microscopy Engineer, where your research will shape the future of critical technology measurement standards.
Advanced Microscopy Engineer Job Overview
NIST is seeking a talented and innovative Advanced Microscopy Engineer to join our Material Measurement Laboratory in Gaithersburg, Maryland. This role is pivotal in driving progress in the chemical, biological, and material sciences. You will focus on the design, construction, and operation of state-of-the-art optical microscopy systems to advance measurement science. This is a unique opportunity to apply your technical expertise to develop automated methods for analyzing material properties, ensuring the robust and quantitative characterization of advanced functional materials.
Requirements for Advanced Microscopy Engineer
- Bachelor's degree in engineering from an ABET-accredited program or a combination of equivalent education and technical experience.
- Must meet one of the following: One year of specialized experience equivalent to at least a GS-9/ZP-II grade, a Master's or equivalent graduate degree, or a combination of graduate education and experience.
- Specialized experience includes design, construction, and operation of Brillouin and Raman scattering microscopes.
- Proven track record in characterizing advanced functional materials using light scattering microscopy.
- Expertise in designing automated optical microscopes and implementing custom control software.
- Ability to provide academic transcripts verifying all education requirements.
- Must adhere to formatting requirements for application materials, including a strictly two-page PDF resume.
Preferred Qualifications for Advanced Microscopy Engineer
- Demonstrated ability to produce high-quality technical reports and peer-reviewed journal publications.
- Experience presenting scientific findings to cross-functional stakeholders.
- Prior experience working in federal research laboratories or equivalent industrial R&D environments.
- Proficiency in advanced optical hardware integration and software control systems.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive salary within a pay-for-performance system (APMS).
- ✓Flexible work arrangements, including telework eligibility.
- ✓Opportunities to contribute to national-level material measurement standards.
- ✓Comprehensive health and retirement benefits package.
- ✓Supportive work-life balance initiatives.
- ✓Access to state-of-the-art research facilities at NIST.
💡 How to Apply Advanced Microscopy Engineer Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Advanced Microscopy Engineer Job
- Prepare a resume that is strictly no more than two pages (PDF format, font size 11 or larger).
- Visit the online application portal via the official job link.
- Complete the required questionnaires and technical assessments.
- Upload all necessary supporting documentation, including transcripts.
- Review your application and submit by 11:59 PM (ET) on the closing date.
- Monitor your status through the online portal or email notifications.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume strictly adheres to the two-page limit; extra pages will not be reviewed.
- Tailor your resume specifically to the specialized experience requirements mentioned in the job description.
- Clearly document the month, year, and hours worked for all relevant experience.
- Ensure your file uploads are legible, as illegible documents may result in disqualification.
- Be prepared to provide technical support screenshots if you encounter platform errors before the deadline.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the pay system for this position?
This role is covered under the NIST Alternative Personnel Management System (APMS), a pay-for-performance model designed to recruit and retain high-caliber talent.
Can I submit more than two pages for my resume?
No. The review committee will only evaluate the first two pages of your submitted resume. Please ensure all critical information is captured within those pages.
Is telework available for this role?
Yes, this position is telework eligible, allowing for a flexible work-life balance at the agency's discretion.
What is the security clearance level for this role?
This position is designated as non-sensitive (NS)/low risk.
Are veterans' preferences applicable?
Because this notice is issued under direct-hire authority, traditional rating and ranking processes, including veterans' preference, do not apply.
Job from National Institute Of Standards And Technology
NIST, a bureau of the U.S. Department of Commerce, works with industry and science to advance innovation and improve the quality of life. Within the Material Measurement Laboratory, the Microscopy and Microanalysis Research Group is responsible for developing robust, quantitative metrology that benefits industries across the chemical, biological, and material sciences. By working at NIST, you become part of a legacy of scientific integrity and innovation.