Jobs/Careers

Physical Scientist
The Volpe National Transportation Systems Center
Cambridge, Massachusetts

Physical Scientist
2 year Developmental Position (Full Time)
Potential for conversion to permanent position
Entry Level (GS-09), $51,871 - $67,427 per year
U.S. Citizenship Required
Multiple positions may be available

The Volpe National Transportation Systems Center (Volpe Center) is part of the U.S. Department of Transportation's (DOT) Research and Innovative Technology Administration (RITA). We are an innovative, federal, fee-for service organization whose mission is to improve the Nation's transportation system. We are located in Cambridge, MA (Kendall Square), and offer competitive benefits; telework; and a flexible and friendly work environment. Visit our website to learn more about us: www.volpe.dot.gov/

Job Description:
 The Environmental Measurement and Modeling Division is seeking Physical Scientists to support projects of national and international significance in the areas of measurement, analysis, and assessment of transportation-related noise for the various modes of the Department of Transportation; and for working on a wide range of projects involving environmental compliance; environmental assessments and impact studies; environmental regulatory development and compliance evaluations.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Conducts field and laboratory measurements of transportation-related noise and performs analyses in support of legislatively mandated responsibilities of several modes of the Department such as FAA, FHWA, and FRA.

  • Performs a variety of tasks and applies technical judgment in the selection, application and interpretation of relevant standard procedures.

  • Participates in diverse measurements of transportation-related noise and performs analyses of recorded data, which involves calibration of complex automated equipment, identification of unsatisfactory performance and corrective action. This activity may involve examination of manufacturers' data packages, containing specifications, schematics, test data and other pertinent details.

  • Analyzes environmental scenarios through the use of both publicly available software models and internal, analytical tools.

  • Works on projects which may be either complete in themselves or segments of much broader projects.

    • Qualifications:
     All applicants must be U.S. Citizens.

    In addition to meeting the basic requirement of a bachelor's degree in physical science, engineering, or mathematics that included 24 semester hours in physical science and/or related engineering science such as mechanics, dynamics, properties of materials, and electronics;

    You must meet one of the following requirements:

    Two years of progressively higher level graduate education leading to a master's degree; or master's or equivalent graduate degree in physical science, engineering, or mathematics.

    OR

    One year of specialized work experience performing duties such as advising, administering, or performing research, other professional and scientific work, or subordinate technical work in any of the fields of science concerned with matter, energy, physical science, acoustics and sound, time, nature of physical measurement, and fundamental structural particles; and the nature of the physical environment.

    How to Apply: applicants must submit the following documentation by December 6, 2010 and reference announcement number VNTSC-11-03 in their application:

    1. Resume
    2. Cover letter
    3. Copy of college and/or graduate program transcripts (unofficial transcripts are acceptable)

    Submit application package via email, fax, or mail:
    Volpe National Transportation Systems Center
    Attn: Nanci R. Angelini, RVP-20
    55 Broadway, Kendall Square, Cambridge, MA 02142
    Fax: 617-494-2942
    Nanci.Angelini@dot.gov

    This position will be filled through the Federal Career Internship Program. For more information on this program please visit www.opm.gov/careerintern/

    Posted 11/11/10

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