Lead Global Safety: Oceanographer/Physical Scientist Position at the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center

Are you a scientist driven by the mission to save lives? The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is seeking a highly qualified Oceanographer, Physical Scientist, or Geophysicist to join the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center (PTWC) in Honolulu, Hawaii. This GS-14 position represents a pinnacle of operational science, where your analytical decisions directly impact the safety of populations across the Pacific Basin.

Job Responsibilities

As a Shift Lead, your primary duties involve the critical analysis of earthquakes and tsunami potential. Key responsibilities include:

Event Analysis: Serving as the final decision-maker for alert levels and product dissemination during seismic events.
Operational Modeling: Utilizing interactive tools and forecast models to assess tsunami impact.
Scientific Research: Conducting applied research to improve warning systems and technology transfer.
Outreach and Training: Representing the PTWC at public meetings and leading staff training initiatives.

Requirements

To be considered for this high-responsibility role, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Citizenship: Must be a U.S. citizen.
Security: Ability to pass a Moderate Risk background investigation.
Education: Possession of a relevant degree in oceanography, geophysics, or related physical sciences meeting specific credit-hour requirements.
Experience: One full year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-13 level.

Requirement	Description
Grade Level	GS-14
Location	Honolulu, Hawaii
Work Schedule	24/7 Rotation / Standby
Salary Range	$131,310 - $170,708

Salary Overview

This position is compensated within the GS-14 federal pay scale. Furthermore, employees in Hawaii benefit from a non-taxed 8.64% Cost of Living Allowance, providing additional financial support that is not reflected in the base salary tables.

Benefits

NOAA offers a comprehensive federal benefits package, including:

Extensive health insurance choices (FEHB).
Strong retirement planning (FERS).
Paid leave and federal holidays.
Relocation assistance for qualified candidates.

Application Tips

Resume Limit: Keep your resume strictly to two pages or risk immediate disqualification.
Documentation: Ensure all college transcripts are clear and show coursework relevant to the degree requirements.
Use the Builder: Utilize the USAJOBS Resume Builder to ensure all required fields are included.

This role is not just a job; it is a vital service to the global community. If you possess the specialized geophysical experience and the desire to lead in high-pressure environments, this NOAA opportunity in Hawaii is the perfect next step for your career. Apply before the September 2, 2026, deadline to be considered.

Why This Oceanographer/Physical Scientist/Geophysicist Job Matters

Protect lives and property by leading critical tsunami and earthquake warnings at the heart of the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center.

Oceanographer/Physical Scientist/Geophysicist Job Overview

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is seeking a skilled Oceanographer, Physical Scientist, or Geophysicist for the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center in Honolulu, Hawaii. In this GS-14 role, you will serve as a Shift Lead, acting as the final authority on tsunami alert levels and earthquake analysis. You will utilize cutting-edge forecast models and geophysical data to ensure the rapid dissemination of life-saving information to domestic and international partners.

Requirements for Oceanographer/Physical Scientist/Geophysicist

U.S. Citizenship is required.
Must pass a Moderate Risk background investigation.
Must be registered with the Selective Service (if applicable).
One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-13 grade level.
Must meet specific education requirements for the 1301, 1313, or 1360 job series.
Must submit college transcripts covering all relevant coursework.

Preferred Qualifications for Oceanographer/Physical Scientist/Geophysicist

Direct experience in analyzing geophysical and oceanographic data for earthquake and tsunami potential.
Demonstrated ability to utilize tsunami forecast models to drive warning operations.
Proven track record in public outreach and inter-agency coordination.
Experience in technical leadership or shift-lead roles within a 24/7 scientific operations environment.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive federal health, vision, and dental insurance options.
✓Federal Employee Retirement System (FERS) benefits.
✓Opportunities for professional development and scientific advancement.
✓Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
✓Relocation expense reimbursement may be authorized for qualified candidates.
✓Cost of Living Allowance (COLA) for Hawaii (8.64%, non-taxed).

💡 How to Apply Oceanographer/Physical Scientist/Geophysicist Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Oceanographer/Physical Scientist/Geophysicist Job

Prepare a resume that is strictly limited to two pages.
Create or update your USAJOBS profile.
Submit your online application through the USAJOBS portal before the closing date.
Include all required documentation, such as college transcripts and DD-214 for veterans' preference.
Complete the required assessment questionnaires.
Monitor your email for status updates and follow-up requests.

💡 General Tips

Use the USAJOBS Resume Builder to ensure all federal requirements are captured.
Ensure your resume explicitly details your specialized experience with dates, job series, and grade levels.
Apply early to avoid technical difficulties near the midnight deadline.
If using a custom resume, clearly mark full-time versus part-time hours.
Review your application thoroughly before submission as edits are not possible after the deadline.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the work environment like at the Tsunami Warning Center?

The environment is high-stakes and dynamic. You will work in a facility that operates 24/7, meaning shift and standby work are required. The operations area is kept at lower temperatures to protect computer hardware, and there is significant noise from cooling fans.

Does the Hawaii location include a cost-of-living adjustment?

Yes, there is an 8.64% Cost of Living Allowance (COLA) for Honolulu, which is exempt from federal income tax. This is in addition to the stated salary range.

Is relocation assistance offered?

Yes, payment of relocation expenses (PCS) may be authorized for this position.

Can I work remotely?

Due to the nature of the shift-work and the requirement to operate on-site 24/7 equipment, this position is not eligible for full-time remote work.

Job from National Oceanic And Atmospheric Administration

NOAA is a premier scientific agency committed to understanding and predicting changes in Earth's environment. From climate monitoring to severe weather forecasting, NOAA’s work is essential to the nation's economic vitality and public safety. Working at the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center means joining a team that operates at the cutting edge of geophysical research and disaster management, providing actionable intelligence to emergency managers and world leaders 24/7.