Leading the Future: Director, Advanced Computing Technology Division
Are you a visionary leader with a passion for high-performance computing and scientific discovery? The Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Science is looking for a dynamic executive to serve as the Director of the Advanced Computing Technology (ACT) Division. This high-level position offers the unique opportunity to shape the national agenda for computing, networking, and quantum research.
Job Responsibilities
As the Director, you will provide leadership for major R&D programs involving:
- Emerging Architectures: Directing research into next-generation computing technologies.
- Scientific Discovery: Implementing robotics and automated systems to accelerate research.
- Policy Oversight: Developing and executing strategic plans for ASCR and the DOE.
- Collaborative Leadership: Representing the agency before Congress, professional societies, and global scientific committees.
Comparison: SES vs. General Schedule
| Feature | Senior Executive Service (SES) | General Schedule (GS) |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Strategic, executive-level | Operational, functional-level |
| Pay Setting | Performance-based salary | Step/Grade based pay scale |
| Probation | 1-year Executive probation | Standard probation |
| Focus | Organizational vision | Task execution |
Requirements
To be considered for this critical position, candidates must prove their ability to manage complex technical and executive operations. Key requirements include:
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Ability to maintain a Q Access Authorization.
- A background in physical science, engineering, or mathematics with specific course requirements (24-30 semester hours).
- Proven performance in the five Executive Core Qualifications (ECQs).
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive compensation package commensurate with the Senior Executive Service pay structure, ranging from $199,172 to $228,000 annually.
Benefits
Employees of the DOE enjoy a robust federal benefits package, including:
- Health and Life Insurance.
- Retirement and the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- Annual and Sick Leave.
- Professional development and leadership opportunities.
Application Tips
- Respect the Constraints: The 2-page limit is non-negotiable. Focus on impact and results.
- Avoid the Builder: Build your own professional resume to ensure the ECQs and TQs are prominent.
- Clarity is Key: Clearly map your experience to the technical requirements listed in the announcement.
Serving as the Director of the Advanced Computing Technology Division is a rare chance to leave a lasting mark on the United States' computational capabilities. If you meet the criteria and are ready for an executive challenge, submit your application before the closing date.
Why This Director, Advanced Computing Technology Division Job Matters
Shape the future of national computing power and scientific discovery as the Director of the Advanced Computing Technology Division at the Department of Energy.
Director, Advanced Computing Technology Division Job Overview
The Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Science is seeking a visionary leader to serve as the Director of the Advanced Computing Technology Division. In this pivotal Senior Executive Service (SES) role, you will oversee groundbreaking research and development programs that define the future of high-performance computing, quantum information science, and advanced microelectronics. This position sits at the intersection of national security, scientific innovation, and cutting-edge engineering, tasking you with driving technical strategy and fostering collaborative relationships across federal agencies, private industry, and academia.
Requirements for Director, Advanced Computing Technology Division
- Must be a U.S. Citizen or National.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Q Access Authorization (Security Clearance).
- Commitment to a 1-year SES probationary period.
- Registration with the Selective Service System if born after December 31, 1959.
- Must be able to pass pre-employment and random drug screenings.
- Successful completion of a Confidential Financial Disclosure Report (OGE-278).
- Possession of the required 24-30 semester hours in physical sciences, engineering, mathematics, or computer science as defined by the OPM qualification standards.
Preferred Qualifications for Director, Advanced Computing Technology Division
- Proven track record of managing large-scale, innovative research programs in advanced computing.
- Demonstrated ability to develop strategic national policies and execute technical roadmaps.
- Experience in building and maintaining high-level collaborations with national laboratories and global research institutions.
- Expertise in bridging academic, industrial, and government sectors to advance scientific computing.
- Strong evidence of Executive Core Qualifications (ECQs) including leading people, driving efficiency, and achieving results.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance and life insurance programs.
- ✓Generous federal retirement system including the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- ✓Paid federal holidays, annual leave, and sick leave.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and continuous leadership training within the Senior Executive Service.
- ✓Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives based on agency policy and funding.
💡 How to Apply Director, Advanced Computing Technology Division Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Director, Advanced Computing Technology Division Job
- Verify eligibility for the Senior Executive Service (SES).
- Prepare a 2-page resume highlighting your Technical Qualifications (TQs) and Executive Core Qualifications (ECQs).
- Register for a USAJOBS account if you do not already have one.
- Upload required transcripts, SF-50 forms (for current/former federal employees), and any relevant certification documentation.
- Complete the online application questionnaire within the USAJOBS portal.
- Submit your application before 11:59 PM (EST) on the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume strictly to the 2-page limit; any content beyond page 2 may not be reviewed.
- Do not use the standard USAJOBS resume builder; craft a custom document that specifically highlights your ECQs and TQs.
- Use a minimum 10-point font for all application materials.
- Ensure your transcript clearly lists the institution, course titles, credit hours, and grades to satisfy educational requirements.
- Double-check your submission status in your USAJOBS dashboard immediately after applying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to submit separate narratives for the ECQs?
No. The ECQs and TQs must be integrated directly into your 2-page resume. Separate narratives will not be accepted.
Are veterans' preference points applicable to this position?
No, veterans' preference does not apply to the Senior Executive Service (SES).
What happens if I am not currently an SES member?
If selected and you are not already an SES member, your application will be forwarded to the Office of Personnel Management's SES Qualifications Review Board for certification.
Is relocation authorized?
*A: Yes, relocation incentives may be authorized based on agency policy and available funding.*
What is the security clearance level?
*A: This position requires a 'Q' Access Authorization due to its critical-sensitive nature.*
Job from Department Of Energy Headquarters
The Office of Science is the primary sponsor of basic research in the physical sciences within the United States. It supports major national programs, including the Advanced Scientific Computing Research (ASCR) office, which is responsible for developing the next generation of supercomputing hardware and software. By joining the ACT Division, you become a steward of the national computational infrastructure that fuels scientific breakthroughs in energy, physics, and national security.