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JOB DESCRIPTION: R&D Scientists apply the scientific method in one or more disciplines (e.g., Photogrammetry, Geodesy, Computer Science, Mathematics, Image Science, Human Terrain Analysis) to advance Geospatial Science and enhance Agency tradecraft. They conduct and develop novel scientific research projects and facilitate interdisciplinary collaboration to further scientific inquiry and application. They provide technical guidance and oversight, report results, and advise management on new and evolving technology. They address a variety of complex data-related analytical problems by applying quantitative and qualitative analytic methods.
Learn more about this agency02/05/2018 to 04/05/2018
$68,036 - $126,062 per year
IA 03
0 vacancies in the following location:
Yes—PERMANENT CHANGE IN STATION: PCS expenses are authorized.
Permanent - This is a permanent position.
Full-time - Full Time
No
20180639
490475600
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: NGA is seeking research scientists in the following scientific areas: 1. Geospatial Cyber. Develop/manage/monitor research projects and personnel in cyber-based pattern-of-life discovery, mobility modeling, geospatial inference, and protection from threat to GEOINT data and methods. Background in computer science, mathematics, statistics, or related field is desired and substantial supervisory experience. 2. Environment and Culture. Perform research to understand how US national security is impacted by the effects of complex natural systems and cultural dynamics. Leverage traditional and non-traditional geospatial data sources to model trends in cultural and natural systems, represent the complex interaction between humans and their environment, and anticipate their impact on problems of relevance to the IC. Design/execute/lead new multi-disciplinary programs focused on modeling & detection of biological, chemical, or nuclear proliferation activities. Understanding how disparate non-traditional geospatial data sources can be combined with traditional data to model language/dialect distributions, disease spread, community demographics, and other human geography issues related to national security. Serve as an expert for research design frameworks such as mixed-methods approaches or process-driven model construction. Advanced degree desired in: quantitative social science, computational linguistics, anthropology, demography, disease modeling, spatial epidemiology, computational biology, genetics and proteomics, biochemistry, agriculture, or hydrology. 3. GEOINT Assurance. Develops new technology-based capabilities to enable NGA to sustain the agency's GEOINT data, sensors, and analytics against threats from adversaries. Demonstrated ability and strong interest in developing his/her own research program in artificial intelligence and machine learning, cybersecurity, operational resilience, and space situational awareness. Strong background in physics, astrophysics, computer science, mathematics, statistics, or related field/experience with mathematical modeling applied across multiple research projects is desired. 4. Anticipatory Analytics. Develop quantitative models of human dynamics using spatiotemporal datasets, data-driven collection, automation, and activity-based intelligence (ABI). Utilize spatiotemporal datasets to develop quantitative models of human dynamics. Particular challenges associated with data this group include correlation across data sets assembled from multiple types of sensors, pattern recognition in high volumes of sparsely sampled data, and operational demand for near-real time and predictive analytics. Background in computer science, predictive analytics, math/stat modeling, and managing research programs is desired. 5. Automation. Develop/manage/monitor people & programs in the hands on creation of new computer vision algorithms to address mission requirements in full motion video, wide area motion imagery and ground level video. Extensive experience w/ design & implementation of video data management/video exploitation for computer vision algorithms (preferably machine learning related). Computer vision or a video exploitation related field and Motion GEOINT and/or computer vision experience using a variety of geospatial data types is also critical. 6. Automation. Develop/manage/monitor research projects working with satellite and ground level imagery, leading new computer vision research projects. Experience with design and implementation of data management and state of the art computer systems for computer vision algorithms, object detection, and classification and image segmentation is desired. 7. Geophysics. Formalize/enhance the current/emerging R&D efforts in particle physics so as to gain best return on investment of R&D efforts on counter-proliferation via innovative approaches to enhance modeling/detection of subatomic particles. Experience in neutron detection and related instrumentation, be familiar with Large Area Picosecond Photo Detector (LAPPD) technology, picosecond electronics, battery systems, and the integration of ruggedized instrumentation. 8. Spectral. Provide technical expertise to ensure NGA readiness for future Electro-Optical (EO) space systems. Assess system performance capabilities using surrogate data and deliver new methods of processing that leverage specific system characteristics. Experience in astronomical image processing, clutter suppression techniques, framing focal plane arrays, sensor calibration, and processing of images for non-literal analyses is key. Strong knowledge of remote sensing fundamentals with cognizance of the state of practice in machine learning, computer vision, and data science for automated content extraction from noisy measurements. Be prepared to rigorously test, evaluate, and adapt potential solutions and facilitate collaboration between NGA and government and commercial data providers.
SPECIAL INFO:
As a condition of employment at NGA, persons being considered for employment must meet NGA fitness for employment standards.
- U.S. Citizenship Required
- Security Clearance (Top Secret/Sensitive Compartmented Information)
- Polygraph Test Required
- Position Subject to Drug Testing
- Two Year Probationary Period
- Direct Deposit Required
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:
You must be able to obtain and retain a Top Secret security clearance with access to Sensitive Compartmented Information. In addition, you are subject to a Counterintelligence Polygraph examination in order to maintain access to Top Secret information. All employees are subject to a periodic examination on a random basis in order to determine continued eligibility. Refusal to take the examination may result in denial of access to Top Secret information, SAP, and/or unescorted access to SCIFs.
Employees with SCI access and who are under NGA cognizance are required to submit a Security Financial Disclosure Report, SF-714, on an annual basis in order to determine continued eligibility. Failure to comply may negatively impact continued access to Top Secret information, Information Systems, SAP, and/or unescorted access to SCIFs.
NGA utilizes all processes and procedures of the Defense Civilian Intelligence Personnel System (DCIPS). Non-executive NGA employees are assigned to five distinct pay bands based on the type and scope of work performed. The employee's base salary is established within their assigned pay band based on their unique qualifications. A performance pay process is conducted each year to determine a potential base pay salary increase and/or bonus. An employee's annual performance evaluation is a key factor in the performance pay process. Employees on term or temporary appointments are not eligible to apply for internal assignment opportunity notices.
This position is a DCIPS position in the Excepted Service under 10 U.S.C. 1601. DoD Components with DCIPS positions apply Veterans' Preference to preference eligible candidates as defined by Section 2108 of Title 5 USC, in accordance with the procedures provided in DoD Instruction 1400.25, Volume 2005, DCIPS Employment and Placement. If you are an external applicant claiming veterans' preference, as defined by Section 2108 of Title 5 U.S.C., you must self-identify your eligibility in our ERecruit application.
MANDATORY QUALIFICATION CRITERIA: For this particular job, applicants must meet all competencies reflected under the Mandatory Qualification Criteria to include education (if required). Online resumes must demonstrate qualification by providing specific examples and associated results, in response to the announcement's mandatory criteria specified in this vacancy announcement: Pay Band 3: 1. Experience briefing scientific research and communicating results to a range of stakeholders. 2. Demonstrated communication skills and an ability to independently coordinate programs and projects in areas of science and research related to geospatial intelligence functions. 3. Research experience evidenced by previous documented efforts. Pay Band 4: 1.Demonstrated subject matter expertise on topics in your technical domain(s), incorporating this expertise into research projects. 2.Documented experience monitoring technical personnel and programs. 3.Experience briefing scientific research and communicating results to a range of stakeholders. 4.Experience developing and leading research proposals, executing research plans, and collaborating as appropriate with other scientists. 5.Ability to handle a wide range of complex tasks and non-routine situations. EDUCATION REQUIREMENT: A. Education: Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Mathematics, Physical Science, or a related discipline that includes 24 semester (36 quarter) hours in Science, Mathematics and/or a related Engineering Science. Such coursework includes, but is not limited to, Astronomy, Cartography, Chemistry, Computer Science, Dynamics, Electrical Engineering, Geodesy, Geography, Geology, Geophysics, Geospatial Information Systems, Mathematics, Orbital Mechanics, Photogrammetry, Physics, Remote Sensing, or Surveying. Although not mandatory, coursework in differential and integral calculus is preferred. -OR- B. Combination of Education and Experience: A minimum of 24 semester (36 quarter) hours of college education in any areas listed in option A plus experience that demonstrates the ability to successfully perform the duties associated with this work. As a rule, every 30 semester (45 quarter) hours of college work is equivalent to one year of experience. Candidates should show that their combination of education and experience totals to 4 years.
DESIRABLE QUALIFICATION CRITERIA: In addition to the mandatory qualifications, experience in the following is desired: Pay Band 3: 1. Ph.D. degree desired, but a minimum of a Bachelor's or a Master's degree in physical sciences, biological or chemical sciences, computational sciences, geospatial sciences and remote sensing, engineering mathematics, or related fields, with at least ten years of experience in research and development is preferred. Demonstrated knowledge and R&D accomplishments in any of the following areas is highly preferred; such as: computer science or information technology, geospatial sciences, geography, any geoscience or GIS area, remote sensing, physics, molecular biology, computational biology, genetics and proteomics or biochemistry. 2. Demonstrated research skills and experience as evidenced by previous, documented efforts, citations of work, and publications in peer-reviewed journals, and receipt of patents and/or awards in a STEM related topic. 3. Experience in demonstrating the quality, complexity and significance of research outputs through sound evaluations and analysis of results. 4. Experience developing research proposals, executing research plans, and collaborating with other scientists. 5. Knowledge of NGA, its multidisciplinary tradecraft, mission, and the interrelationships of the IC and other Federal Agencies as well as Academia and Industry. Pay Band 4: 1.Ph.D. degree desired, but a minimum of a Bachelor's or a Master's degree in physical sciences, biological or chemical sciences, computational sciences, geospatial sciences and remote sensing, engineering mathematics, or related fields, with at least ten years of experience in research and development is preferred. Demonstrated knowledge and R&D accomplishments in any of the following areas is highly preferred; such as: computer science or information technology, geospatial sciences, geography, any geoscience or GIS area, remote sensing, physics, molecular biology, computational biology, genetics and proteomics or biochemistry. 2. Experience demonstrating the quality, complexity, and significance of research outputs through sound evaluation and analysis of results. 3. Demonstrated research skills and experience as evidenced by previous, documented efforts, citations of work, and publications in peer-reviewed journals, and receipt of patents and/or awards in a STEM related topic. 4. Knowledge of NGA, its multidisciplinary tradecraft, mission, and the interrelationships of the IC and other Federal Agencies as well as Academia and Industry.
You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.
Applicants are NOT required to submit a cover letter. The entire cover letter cannot exceed the specified limits provided in the Cover Letter field (3,000 characters). Pages exceeding this limit will not be considered. THE COVER LETTER IS RECOMMENDED BUT IS NOT REQUIRED FOR EMPLOYMENT CONSIDERATION WITH THE NATIONAL GEOSPATIAL-INTELLIGENCE AGENCY.
APPLICANT EVALUATION PROCESS: Applicants will be evaluated for this job opportunity in three stages:
1) All applicants will be evaluated using the Mandatory Qualification Criteria,
2) Qualified applicants will then be evaluated by an expert or panel of experts using a combination of qualification criteria to determine the best-qualified candidates,
3) Best-qualified applicants may then be further evaluated through an interview process.
Applicants are encouraged to carefully review the Assignment Description, Additional Information Provided By the Selecting Official, and the Qualification Requirements; and then construct their resumes to highlight their most relevant and significant experience and education for this job opportunity. This description should include examples that detail the level and complexity of the performed work. Applicants are encouraged to provide any education information referenced in the announcement. If education is listed as a mandatory requirement, only degrees obtained from an institution accredited by an accrediting organization recognized by the Secretary, US Department of Education will be accepted.
As a condition of employment at NGA, persons being considered for employment must meet NGA fitness for employment standards.
In accordance with section 9902(h) of title 5, United States Code, annuitants reemployed in the Department of Defense shall receive full annuity and salary upon appointment. They shall not be eligible for retirement contributions, participation in the Thrift Savings Plan, or a supplemental or redetermined annuity for the reemployment period. Discontinued service retirement annuitants (i.e., retired under section 8336(d)(1) or 8414(b)(1)(A) of title 5, United States Code) appointed to the Department of Defense may elect to be subject to retirement provisions of the new appointment as appropriate. (See DoD Instruction 1400.25, Volume 300, at http://www.dtic.mil/whs/directives.)
All candidates will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, disability, or sexual orientation.
NGA provides reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities. Applications will only be accepted online. If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application and hiring process, please notify us at recruitment@nga.mil. The decision on granting reasonable accommodation will be on a case-by-case basis.
None
Education must be accredited by an accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education in order for it to be credited towards qualifications. Therefore, provide only the attendance and/or degrees from schools accredited by accrediting institutions recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
Failure to provide all of the required information as stated in this vacancy announcement may result in an ineligible rating or may affect the overall rating.
Application submission involves applying using NGA's on-line application process. Application Instructions can be found by visiting: http://www.intelligencecareers.gov/NGA
All announcements close at 11:59PM EDT on the closing date listed. Be sure to complete and submit your application by that time in order to be considered.
ONLY ELECTRONIC SUBMISSIONS WILL BE ACCEPTED.
After visiting https://www.nga.mil/Careers and applying via NGA's on-line application process, applicants can follow their status via that same NGA on-line application functionality. Several other topics relating to what is involved in the hiring process and how long it takes can be found by visiting http://www.intelligencecareers.gov/NGA and choosing Frequently Asked Questions.
The Federal hiring process is set up to be fair and transparent. Please read the following guidance.
This job originated on www.usajobs.gov. For the full announcement and to apply, visit www.usajobs.gov/job/490475600. Only resumes submitted according to the instructions on the job announcement listed at www.usajobs.gov will be considered.
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