Launch Your Career as a Physical Scientist with the Department of Energy

The Department of Energy (DOE) is at the forefront of the nation's effort to address complex energy, environmental, and nuclear challenges. As the demand for a more reliable and resilient electric grid grows, the need for skilled professionals has never been greater. The National Energy Technology Laboratory (NETL) is seeking a motivated Physical Scientist to join its team. This role is a unique chance to impact the future of energy infrastructure while working at the intersection of cutting-edge research and policy.

Job Responsibilities

In this position, you will act as a technical leader. Your responsibilities include:

Overseeing engineering projects from conception to completion.
Analyzing technological trends to resolve critical infrastructure conflicts.
Drafting technical documentation, including Statements of Work and budget proposals.
Serving as a Technical Project Officer to monitor contract deliverables.
Presenting technical progress reports to leadership and external partners.

Requirements

Applicants must demonstrate both educational attainment and professional experience.

Education: A degree in physical science, engineering, or math with at least 24 semester hours in related subjects.
Experience: One year of specialized experience at the next lower grade level (GS-11 for GS-12; GS-12 for GS-13).
Assessment: Successful completion of the USA Hire competency assessment.

Salary and Grade Overview

Grade Level	Salary Range
GS-12/13	$89,508 – $149,091

Benefits

Working for the federal government provides access to industry-leading benefits, including comprehensive health coverage, a robust retirement system (TSP), and structured advancement opportunities.

Application Tips

Tailor your resume: Ensure your document highlights specific projects and technical milestones.
Formatting matters: Keep it under two pages, use clear fonts, and save as a PDF.
Assessments: Complete the USA Hire test promptly; it is a critical gatekeeper in the process.

This role offers a high-impact environment where your contributions directly support the security of the American electric grid. If you meet the criteria and are ready for a challenge, submit your application today.

Why This Physical Scientist Job Matters

Shape the future of America's energy grid as a Physical Scientist at the Department of Energy, where transformative research meets real-world technical impact.

Physical Scientist Job Overview

The Department of Energy’s Hydrocarbons and Geothermal Energy Office is seeking dedicated Physical Scientists to join the National Energy Technology Laboratory. In this critical role, you will provide technical oversight and project management for initiatives designed to improve the security, reliability, and resilience of our nation's electric grid. This term-limited position offers a unique opportunity to influence energy sustainability through complex research, design, and implementation strategies.

Requirements for Physical Scientist

U.S. Citizenship
Bachelor's degree or higher in physical science, engineering, or mathematics with at least 24 semester hours in related sciences.
One year of specialized experience at the GS-11 level (for GS-12) or GS-12 level (for GS-13).
Must meet the proficiency threshold on the USA Hire competency-based assessment.
Submission of complete academic transcripts.

Preferred Qualifications for Physical Scientist

Demonstrated experience in project planning, tracking milestones, and managing project resources.
Strong technical writing skills including the development of Statements of Work and project specifications.
Proven ability to brief diverse stakeholders, including management and external partners.
Proficiency in monitoring financial assistance awards and contract compliance.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive Federal Salary
✓Comprehensive health insurance options
✓Retirement savings plans including TSP
✓Generous annual and sick leave policies
✓Opportunities for professional development

💡 How to Apply Physical Scientist Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Physical Scientist Job

Read the full announcement instructions carefully.
Prepare a resume (max 2 pages) and ensure all required documents are attached.
Complete the online application via USAJOBS.
Submit the application by 11:59 PM ET on the closing date.
Complete the required USA Hire assessment within the specified timeframe.

💡 General Tips

Use standard fonts such as Lato, Calibri, or Arial.
Keep your resume to two pages and save it as a PDF for optimal formatting.
Verify that your transcripts clearly list course titles and credit hours.
Save screenshots of any technical errors for your records.
Check your application status frequently via your USAJOBS account.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a permanent position?

No, this is a term appointment for an initial 2-year period, which may be extended up to a maximum of 4 years.

What is the education requirement?

You must hold a degree in a physical science, engineering, or mathematics discipline, including at least 24 semester hours in relevant science or engineering coursework.

Can I apply if I am not a current federal employee?

Yes, this position is open to the public.

What if I have a foreign degree?

*A: Foreign degrees must be evaluated by an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education to ensure equivalency.*

Can I apply for both grade levels?

*A: Yes, you should tailor your resume to reflect the specific experience required for the grade you are applying for.*

Job from Department Of Energy Headquarters

The Department of Energy’s mission is to ensure America’s security and prosperity through transformative science. NETL, a key component of this mission, serves as the project management hub for the Office of Electricity. With a strong commitment to veterans and workforce excellence, the DOE offers a professional environment where technical expertise and innovative problem-solving are highly valued.