NSA’s Laboratory for Physical Sciences (LPS) drives physical sciences research in future information technologies to prevent technological surprise. Founded in 1956 in partnership with the University of Maryland, LPS has evolved a model of basic and applied research that focuses on government engagement with academia and industry.LPS is seeking a skilled set of scientists with experience in quantum technologies, driven to push the frontiers of science. Our quantum information scientists work in a fast-paced team environment where university, industry, and federal government scientists collaborate on research in quantum and cryogenic devices, advanced communication, sensing, and computer technologies.LPS is excited to leverage your expertise, ideas, and vision to serve in one of the following roles:Quantum Information Sciences Research Manager:Develop, direct, and manage world-leading research in quantum information sciences. This research is aimed at understanding the physics behind performance limits of current quantum devices and developing disruptive qubit materials, devices, and methods for a wide range of quantum computing technologies with an emphasis on semiconductor and superconductor quantum computing.Quantum Information Scientist:Perform cutting edge quantum information science research in collaboration with mathematicians, engineers, and physicists. QI Scientists may conduct mathematical and theoretical research, to include algorithm discovery and fault tolerant methods, construct simulations, and analyze experimental data, all within a collaborative, cross-disciplinary team. This work will inform U.S. research investments.Quantum Information Science Researcher:Conduct experimental or theoretical research into the fundamental limitations of qubit devices and the development of novel qubits with the potential to disrupt the application space of quantum technologies.Quantum Information Science Researcher ' Team Leader:Set research goals, participate in and direct research focused on conducting experimental or theoretical studies to further understanding of the fundamental limitations of qubit devices and invent qubits with the potential to disrupt the application space of quantum technologies.
Job Summary
The NSA invites you to be part of an elite team that’s making a global impact by researching and developing revolutionary ideas. As a Quantum Researcher at NSA, your creativity and that of your team is essential to investigating and implementing effective technical solutions for our Nation. Your efforts will drive global impacts that may include saving the lives of U.S. and ally soldiers, providing U.S. policy and decision makers with critical, timely intelligence, ensuring the continued safety of U.S. citizens and residents by thwarting foreign adversaries, and defending vital networks. You can learn more about LPS and its mission by visiting https://www.lps.umd.edu.
Qualifications
The qualifications listed are the minimum acceptable to be considered for the position.Degree must be in either (1) Engineering, (2) Physics or Astronomy from an accredited college or university, or (3) a relevant professional technical field (for example, chemistry, computer science, mathematics, hydrology, geology).For Engineering degrees, if program is not ABET EAC accredited, it must include specified coursework.Specified coursework includes courses in differential and integral calculus and 5 of the following 18 areas: (a) statics or dynamics, (b) strength of materials/stress-strain relationships, (c) fluid mechanics, hydraulics, (d) thermodynamics, (e) electromagnetic fields, (f) nature and properties of materials/relating particle and aggregate structure to properties, (g) solid state electronics, (h) microprocessor applications, (i), computer systems, (j) signal processing, (k) digital design, (l) systems and control theory, (m) circuits or generalized circuits, (n) communication systems, (o) power systems, (p) computer networks, (q) software development, (r) any other comparable area of fundamental engineering science or physics, such as optics, heat transfer, or soil mechanics.Relevant experience must be in one or more of the following: performing engineering or physical sciences work, or conducting academic or independent research in a technical field (for example, mathematics, engineering, cognitive sciences and physical sciences).FULL PERFORMANCEEntry is with a Bachelor’s degree plus 3 years of relevant experience, or a Master’s degree plus 1 year of relevant experience, or a Doctoral degree and no experience.SENIOREntry is with a Bachelor’s degree plus 7 years of relevant experience, or a Master’s degree plus 5 years of relevant experience, or a Doctoral degree plus 3 years of relevant experience.EXPERTEntry is a Bachelor’s degree plus 10 years of relevant experience, or a Master’s degree plus 8 years of relevant experience, or a Doctoral degree plus 6 years of relevant experience.
Competencies
As a valued member of the LPS team, you will leverage your expertise, ideas, and vision to:- Lead projects that shape the future of U.S. computing interests- Conduct research in modeling and simulation of quantum information systems- Collaborate with leading scientists in quantum computing across government, industry, and academia to understand the latest state-of-the-art research, and identify future research gaps and needs- Implement strategies by directing U.S. Government investments- Advance U.S. leadership in Quantum Information Science (QIS) for the benefit of the entire nationExperience in the following areas are desired:- Quantum Hardware Development- Quantum Supporting technologies and methods- Quantum protocol development, including quantum error correction- Modeling and simulation of physical or logical systems- Characterization, analysis, and physical constraints of quantum systems- Maturing quantum technologies- Several layers of a quantum information system hierarchy, from micro-physics to logical
Pay, Benefits, & Work Schedule
Pay: Salary offers are based on candidates’ education level and years of experience relevant to the position and also take into account information provided by the hiring manager/organization regarding the work level for the position.Salary Range: $104,219 - $195,200 (Full Performance, Senior, Expert)Salary range varies by location, work level, and relevant experience to the position.Training will be provided based on the selectee’s needs and experience.Benefits: NSA offers a comprehensive benefits package.Work Schedule: This is a full-time position, Monday - Friday, with basic 8hr/day work requirement between 6:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. (flexible).
How to apply
Apply soonest, as job postings can close earlier than stated end dates due to changes in requirements. It is important to review and note the minimum qualifications, as only those applicants who meet the required qualifications will be contacted to continue the employment process. Please populate the resume tool to showcase any relevant work experience and education related to the position and answer any applicable screening questions. Information collected will be used to determine eligibility, and failure to provide accurate information may result in disqualification for this position.A confirmation email will be sent after submission of the first application and also after any future updates to submitted applications. **Due to time sensitive communications regarding applications, please ensure your spam filters are configured to accept email from noreply@intelligencecareers.gov. For job vacancies that include stated testing requirements, also include the following: @uwe.nsa.gov, @nsa.gov, and @pearson.comU.S. Citizenship is required for all applicants. NSA is an equal opportunity employer and abides by applicable employment laws and regulations. All applicants and employees are subject to random drug testing in accordance with Executive Order 12564. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a security background investigation and polygraph. Reasonable accommodations may be provided to applicants with disabilities during the application and hiring process where appropriate.
DCIPS Disclaimer
Thank you for your service! The National Security Agency (NSA) is part of the Defense Civilian Intelligence Personnel System (DCIPS). All positions at NSA are in the Excepted Service under Title 10, United States Codes (U.S.C.), Section 1601 appointment authority.Veterans’ PreferenceIn accordance with the procedures provided in DoD Instruction 1400.25, Volume 2005, “DoD Civilian Personnel Management System: Defense Civilian Intelligence Personnel System Employment and Placement,” NSA applies veterans’ preference, as defined by Section 2108 of Title 5, U.S.C., to eligible candidates. If you are claiming veterans’ preference, you are required to provide acceptable documentation of your preference eligibility upon application.Acceptable documentation includes:- DD-214: “Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty,” which shows dates of service and discharge under honorable conditions;- Certification of Service:A written document on letterhead from the appropriate branch of the armed forces that certifies the service member is expected to be discharged or released from active duty service in the armed forces under honorable conditions not later than 120 days after the date the certification is signed. The certification should include the military service dates, including the expected discharge or release date; OR- Standard Form 15 (SF-15)Application for 10-point Veteran Preference (http://www.opm.gov/forms/pdf_fill/sf15.pdf).If you are claiming a service-connected disability of 30 percent or more, the documentation you provide must specifically demonstrate this level of disability. You may obtain a letter from the Department of Veterans Affairs reflecting your level of disability for preference eligibility by visiting a VA Regional Office, contacting a VA call center, or online (https://www.ebenefits.va.gov/).Failure to provide sufficient documentation of veterans’ preference eligibility may preclude NSA from identifying you as a preference eligible candidate during the hiring selection process.

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