Pioneering the Future: Physical Scientist/Mathematician Roles at the DOE

The Department of Energy (DOE) is at the forefront of scientific innovation. We are currently looking for a high-level Physical Scientist or Mathematician to join the Office of Science—Advanced Scientific Computing Research (ASCR). If you are a leader in the fields of super intelligence, machine learning, or high-performance computing (HPC), this GS-15 position offers a unique opportunity to shape the nation's research agenda.

Job Responsibilities

In this role, you will:

Define strategic visions for next-generation computing and quantum information science.
Manage the full lifecycle of scientific portfolios, including budgeting and peer review.
Act as a senior technical consultant for national and international research committees.
Facilitate the transition of research findings into practical, usable scientific tools.

Requirements

Education: A qualifying degree in physical science, engineering, or mathematics with at least 24 semester hours in related fields.
Experience: Minimum of one year at the GS-14 level involving complex research program management.
Technical Competency: Expertise in SI, machine learning, or advanced mathematical modeling.

Comparison of Potential Responsibilities

Responsibility Area	Focus	Impact
Research Strategy	SI & HPC	Future-proofing nation
Budgeting	Program Lifecycle	Resource optimization
Representation	Technical Panels	International collaboration

Salary Overview

The salary for this position ranges from $169,279 to $197,200 per year, commensurate with federal pay scales and expertise.

Benefits

Employees of the DOE enjoy competitive federal benefits, including comprehensive health coverage, a generous retirement program (TSP), and the ability to utilize telework programs to maintain a healthy work-life balance.

Application Tips

Ensure your resume is limited to two pages.
Use clear, professional fonts.
Submit your transcripts early to avoid disqualification.
Double-check all submission deadlines.

This role is for those ready to lead. If you possess the technical depth and strategic vision required to advance the frontiers of science, apply today to help the DOE build the future of global research.

Why This Physical Scientist/Mathematician Job Matters

Shape the future of the nation's scientific capabilities at the Department of Energy’s Office of Science.

Physical Scientist/Mathematician Job Overview

The Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Science is seeking a visionary Physical Scientist or Mathematician to lead research programs in Super Intelligence (SI), high-performance computing (HPC), and quantum information science. This critical GS-15 level role involves driving the strategic direction of research portfolios, managing large-scale federal scientific budgets, and collaborating with national and international experts to translate complex algorithms into tangible scientific solutions.

Requirements for Physical Scientist/Mathematician

U.S. Citizenship
Must meet the basic education requirement for the 1301 series: degree in physical science, engineering, or mathematics with at least 24 semester hours in related sciences.
At least one year of specialized experience at the GS-14 level.
Experience leading complex research programs in super intelligence, machine learning, or HPC.
Expertise in acting as a technical authority on multi-disciplinary scientific panels.
Proven ability to transition advanced mathematical techniques into practical scientific applications.
Must complete a mandatory USA Hire competency-based assessment.

Preferred Qualifications for Physical Scientist/Mathematician

Demonstrated ability to manage full-lifecycle research grants and contracts.
Experience in high-level strategic planning and budget administration.
Strong interpersonal skills for collaborating with high-level agency leadership and external stakeholders.
Proven track record in peer review coordination and performance evaluation of scientific projects.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Federal health, dental, and vision insurance programs
✓Comprehensive federal retirement plans including the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP)
✓Paid vacation and sick leave
✓Flexible work arrangements, including telework eligibility
✓Professional development and training opportunities
✓Paid federal holidays

💡 How to Apply Physical Scientist/Mathematician Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Physical Scientist/Mathematician Job

Review the full vacancy announcement carefully.
Prepare a maximum two-page resume highlighting specialized experience.
Gather academic transcripts ensuring they list course titles and credits.
Click 'Apply Online' on the official USAJobs platform.
Complete the required questionnaire and upload all supporting documents.
Submit your application before 11:59 PM ET on November 2, 2026.
Complete the mandatory USA Hire assessment within the specified timeframe.

💡 General Tips

Use standard, professional fonts like Arial or Lato for your resume.
Ensure your resume includes specific details such as salary, hours worked, and full employer addresses.
Convert all documents to PDF format to preserve formatting.
Keep resume margins set to 0.5 inches.
Take screenshots of any system errors immediately if technical issues occur during the application process.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the education requirement for the 1301 series?

You must hold a degree in physical science, engineering, or mathematics that includes at least 24 semester hours in relevant physical or engineering sciences.

Is telework available for this position?

Yes, this position is eligible for telework in accordance with agency policy.

What is the hiring authority for this role?

This position is filled via a government-wide Direct-Hire Authority (DHA), which bypasses traditional rating and ranking procedures.

Is a security clearance required?

While no formal clearance is listed, the position is designated as High Risk (HR), requiring suitability and fitness adjudication.

Can I update my application after submission?

Yes, you can edit your application in USAJobs before the announcement closes on November 2, 2026.

Job from Department Of Energy Headquarters

The Office of Science at the DOE supports fundamental research to address the most complex energy and scientific challenges of our time. By fostering collaboration between academic institutions, national laboratories, and private industry, we ensure the United States remains a global leader in scientific discovery.