Launch Your Career as a Physical Scientist with the Department of the Navy
Are you a dedicated scientist looking to apply your expertise to national security? The Department of the Navy is currently seeking a highly skilled Physical Scientist to join the team at the Warfighting Support Center (NP2) at the Naval Oceanographic Office (NAVOCEANO) in Stennis Space Center, Mississippi. This GS-13 position is a high-impact role designed for professionals who excel at data fusion, geospatial intelligence, and project leadership.
Job Responsibilities
As a Senior Geospatial Analyst, you will not just process data; you will define the standards for its use. Key duties include:
- Geospatial Intelligence: Merging METOC datasets with intelligence to create actionable insights.
- Technical Leadership: Advising senior leadership on program direction and policy.
- Software Evaluation: Testing new algorithms and automated production software.
- Data Management: Developing new methods for categorizing and merging environmental data for operational use.
Requirements
To be considered for this GS-13 position, you must demonstrate the following:
- Education: A degree in physical science, engineering, or mathematics with at least 24 semester hours of physical/engineering science.
- Experience: One year of specialized experience at the GS-12 level, focusing on project leadership and GIS data management.
- Compliance: Must be willing to undergo a drug screening and maintain an SCI security clearance.
Candidate Comparison Table
| Feature | Minimum Requirement | Preferred Strength |
|---|---|---|
| Experience | 1 Year at GS-12 | 3+ Years Leading Major Projects |
| GIS Skills | Basic Proficiency | Expert in Advanced GIS Data Fusion |
| Communication | Professional | Ability to Brief Senior Leadership |
Salary Overview
This position offers a robust salary range of $106,437 to $138,370 per year, commensurate with experience and federal pay standards.
Benefits
Beyond the salary, employees enjoy:
- Comprehensive health/dental insurance.
- Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching.
- Excellent work-life balance and federal holiday schedule.
- Opportunities for ongoing training and certifications.
Application Tips
Ensure your resume is no longer than two pages and explicitly details your technical accomplishments. Use the USAJOBS Resume Builder, and be sure to include your pay plan and grade level if you have previous federal experience.
This role at the Stennis Space Center is more than a job—it is a chance to provide the foundation for critical naval operations. If you have the scientific rigor and the leadership vision, we encourage you to apply.
Why This Physical Scientist Job Matters
Lead the future of naval geospatial intelligence as a Senior Physical Scientist at the Stennis Space Center.
Physical Scientist Job Overview
The Department of the Navy is seeking a dedicated Physical Scientist to join the Warfighting Support Center (NP2) at the Naval Oceanographic Office (NAVOCEANO) in Bay St. Louis, Mississippi. In this pivotal GS-13 role, you will leverage your expertise in geospatial analysis, remote sensing, and environmental data fusion to support mission-critical defense operations. This position offers a unique opportunity to influence policy, guide technical teams, and contribute to the safety and readiness of the fleet through advanced scientific innovation.
Requirements for Physical Scientist
- U.S. Citizenship
- Must be able to obtain and maintain a Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) security clearance.
- Must pass an initial drug screening and participate in ongoing random drug testing.
- Minimum of one year of specialized experience at or equivalent to the GS-12 grade level.
- Degree in physical science, engineering, or mathematics with at least 24 semester hours in physical science or related engineering disciplines.
- Resume must clearly document professional experience, including dates, hours per week, and grade levels.
- Ability to work in a Special-Sensitive (SS)/High Risk position.
Preferred Qualifications for Physical Scientist
- Proven track record of leading scientific projects from conceptual design through to successful implementation.
- Expertise in managing and disseminating complex geospatial and scientific data using advanced GIS tools.
- Strong ability to present technical information to senior organizational leadership.
- Experience in mentoring junior staff on data analysis and fusion techniques.
- Familiarity with remote sensing, bathymetry, and hydrographic data collection processes.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary structure
- ✓Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance options
- ✓Federal retirement savings plan (TSP)
- ✓Paid vacation and federal holidays
- ✓Extensive professional development and training opportunities
- ✓Opportunities for career advancement within the Department of the Navy
💡 How to Apply Physical Scientist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Physical Scientist Job
- Create or update your account on the official USAJOBS portal.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly limited to two pages.
- Ensure your resume includes employer names, specific start/end dates, hours worked, and pay scales.
- Collect necessary supporting documents, such as transcripts, SF-50 forms for current federal employees, or DD-214 for veterans.
- Submit your application through the official online link before the closing date.
- Monitor your application status via the USAJOBS applicant dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Use the USAJOBS Resume Builder to ensure all mandatory federal information is included.
- Clearly highlight your experience with GIS tools and data management in your resume.
- Proofread your application documents carefully, as errors may negatively impact your rating.
- Do not submit hard copies or email resumes directly to the agency, as they will be destroyed.
- Attach your most recent SF-50 if you are currently a federal employee seeking a promotion.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary role of a Physical Scientist at NAVOCEANO?
You will function as a Senior Geospatial Analyst, responsible for integrating METOC datasets and intelligence to support naval warfighting capabilities.
Is travel required for this position?
Yes, the role requires participating in survey-related travel approximately two times per year in a lead capacity.
What is the security requirement for this job?
This position is designated as Special-Sensitive (High Risk) and requires the ability to obtain and maintain an SCI clearance.
Job from United States Fleet Forces Command
The Department of the Navy is committed to safeguarding our freedoms by linking military and civilian expertise. Working at NAVOCEANO provides an unparalleled environment where purpose meets patriotism. Civilian employees receive competitive compensation, world-class benefits, and a clear path for professional growth, contributing to a mission that spans the globe.