Launch Your Career as a Computer Scientist with the NTIA
Are you a software engineer with a passion for telecommunications and national policy? The Institute for Telecommunication Sciences (ITS) is currently accepting applications for a Computer Scientist to join their team in Boulder, Colorado. This role offers the unique opportunity to work on cutting-edge research that directly influences how America approaches broadband access, spectrum usage, and digital innovation.
Job Responsibilities
As a Computer Scientist at the NTIA, you will function as a key contributor to complex research projects. Your primary responsibilities will include:
- Software Design & Development: Independently engineering software solutions that translate mathematical models into functional applications.
- Algorithmic Innovation: Developing technical algorithms for signal processing, machine learning, and AI.
- System Validation: Rigorously testing, debugging, and troubleshooting software implementations to ensure accuracy.
- Technical Reporting: Communicating research findings to both technical peers and leadership through formal reports and conference presentations.
Requirements
Applicants must demonstrate a mix of educational attainment and specialized professional experience. A bachelor’s degree with a focus on computer science, math, or statistics is required. Furthermore, you must possess one year of specialized experience equivalent to a GS-09 or ZP-2 federal level. Applicants must also pass a federal background check and meet citizenship requirements.
Salary and Comparison
This position offers a competitive salary structure based on federal pay bands. Below is a comparison of typical benefits and career factors for this role.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary Range | $83,265 - $129,742 |
| Location | Boulder, Colorado |
| Telework | Yes, eligible |
| Clearance | Non-sensitive/Low Risk |
Benefits
Working for the federal government provides a comprehensive safety net and growth plan. Benefits include:
- Comprehensive Health Coverage: Access to multiple health, dental, and vision insurance options for you and your family.
- Retirement Plans: Robust pension and 401(k)-style (TSP) retirement options.
- Work-Life Balance: Generous leave accrual, federal holidays, and flexible scheduling.
- Professional Growth: Continuous training and development opportunities within the Department of Commerce.
Application Tips
Success in federal hiring requires attention to detail. Remember that the Subject Matter Experts will only review the first two pages of your resume. Ensure those pages highlight your technical accomplishments and include clear start/end dates for each position. Always use the USA Hire portal to track your status throughout the process.
This is a fantastic opportunity to combine high-level technical skill with public service. By joining the NTIA, you are not just writing code—you are building the digital infrastructure for America’s future. Ensure you submit your application before the October 2026 deadline to be considered.
Why This Computer Scientist Job Matters
Join the Institute for Telecommunication Sciences and shape the future of American broadband and spectrum policy through innovative software engineering.
Computer Scientist Job Overview
The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), specifically the Institute for Telecommunication Sciences (ITS) in Boulder, Colorado, is seeking a talented Computer Scientist. This role sits at the intersection of complex telecommunication research and cutting-edge software development. You will contribute to high-impact projects focusing on broadband expansion, spectrum efficiency, and national digital infrastructure, utilizing your expertise in mathematical modeling and advanced algorithmic design to support critical government policy initiatives.
Requirements for Computer Scientist
- U.S. citizenship is mandatory.
- Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or a combination of 30 semester hours in statistics, mathematics, and computer science (must include 15 hours of calculus-based stats/math).
- One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-09 or ZP-2 level.
- Ability to successfully pass a comprehensive background investigation.
- Registration with the Selective Service for males born after December 31, 1959.
- Must complete an online assessment as part of the application process.
Preferred Qualifications for Computer Scientist
- Advanced experience in software development using various programming languages to solve complex technical research problems.
- Proven track record of creating scientific software for data-intensive workloads, machine learning, AI, signal processing, or numerical modeling.
- Experience in technical writing, including the creation of system architecture diagrams, design documents, and project status reports for diverse audiences.
- Demonstrated ability to validate, debug, and troubleshoot complex software implementations.
- Possession of a Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral-level degree in Computer Science or a directly related field.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- âś“Comprehensive federal health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
- âś“Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) participation.
- âś“Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
- âś“Flexible work arrangements, including potential telework options.
- âś“Opportunities for professional development and training.
- âś“Relocation or recruitment incentives may be offered for qualified candidates.
đź’ˇ How to Apply Computer Scientist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Computer Scientist Job
- Review the full vacancy announcement thoroughly.
- Prepare a resume that strictly adheres to the two-page limit and includes specific dates, hours per week, and role descriptions.
- Click the apply link to begin the online application through the USA Staffing portal.
- Complete the required online assessment when notified.
- Attach all necessary supporting documentation, including transcripts and, if applicable, military or veteran preference documents.
- Submit your complete application package before the closing date.
đź’ˇ General Tips
- The Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) will only review the first two pages of your resume; focus on concise, high-impact descriptions of your specialized experience.
- Avoid including personal information such as photos, Social Security numbers, or age on your resume to prevent automatic disqualification.
- Ensure all educational transcripts are included; foreign education requires an equivalency evaluation.
- Save your work frequently, and do not wait until the final deadline to submit your application in case of technical delays.
- Use the USA Hire Applicant Resource Center to practice before taking your assessments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I submit a cover letter with my application?
Yes, a cover letter is optional, but your resume is the primary document evaluated by the SMEs.
Is telework available for this position?
Yes, this position is designated as telework eligible, subject to agency policy.
What happens if I forget to submit my transcripts?
Failure to provide required transcripts can result in an automatic finding of ineligibility, as this role has a positive education requirement.
What is the primary focus of the research at the ITS?
The ITS focuses on spectrum usage, broadband adoption, and telecommunication policy challenges.
Are there relocation incentives?
Yes, the agency may offer relocation or recruitment incentives depending on candidate eligibility.
Job from National Telecommunications And Information Administration
The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) is the Executive Branch agency responsible for advising the President on telecommunications and information policy. Located in Boulder, the Institute for Telecommunication Sciences serves as the research and engineering arm of the NTIA. Their mission is to provide the technical expertise necessary to address critical national needs, including public safety, broadband internet expansion, and economic growth.