This position is located in GAO's Science, Technology Assessment, & Analytics (STAA), Technology Assessment group. STAA is devoted to enhancing & expanding its support to Congress in conducting technology assessments; oversight of federal science & technology programs; & development of innovative analytical techniques in carrying out audits & evaluations. The Technology Assessment group provides independent, nonpartisan analysis of complex science & technology issues to Congress. Visit: STAA

Duties

This is an entry-level position. You will participate in a Professional Development Program that includes a combination of on-the-job and classroom training, and exposure to diverse projects within your assigned team. The STAA, Technology Assessment group is seeking an experienced professional to serve as a Physical Scientist to perform the following: Support the execution of science and technology engagements including performance audits, technology assessments, and Comptroller General forums and roundtables; Provide technical advice and support on engagements related to physical sciences, particularly atmospheric science; and potentially chemistry, geology, nuclear energy, nuclear weapons, physics, space sciences, meteorology, and oceanography, in accordance with GAO standards; Contribute to the development of the engagement's approach, including participating in the preparation of the design matrix and project plan; conducting background research on scientific subject matter; preparing and organizing engagement-related documentation; data gathering and analysis from a variety of sources, including developing interview questions and taking thorough interview notes; and evaluating engagement-related documentation to make logical inferences and draw accurate conclusions; Conduct interviews to gather appropriate information, and communicate relevant information to agency officials, team members, internal stakeholders, and congressional staff, during formal and informal presentations and meetings; Conduct analysis of the engagement research data, responses received from interviewees, and other evidence that has been collected from various sources; Prepare written summaries of interviews and analyses, and produce reports and other written products that effectively communicate information and findings; Collaborate with others to address issues or solve problems and follow up with others to ensure needs are met; and solicit, listen to, and consider diverse perspectives, approaches, or viewpoints, and incorporate others' perspectives into decision-making; Support the data analysis and evaluation phase of the engagement related to physical science topics. This includes data analysis and message development by synthesizing technical information and drawing preliminary conclusions, and periodically presenting findings to engagement team members, management, and stakeholders; Perform indexing and referencing of products and assist with the coordination of agency comments and the preparation of final products; and Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

Qualifications

In addition to the education requirement, you must have 1 year (52 weeks) of specialized experience at the next lower band or level equivalent to the GS-5 in the Federal Service, or comparable private/public sector experience which has equipped you with the skills and knowledge required to successfully perform the duties of the position. Specialized experience for this position is defined as experience: Analyzing qualitative and quantitative data to reach conclusions. Presenting results in writing through research papers, dissertations, and other means. Presenting results orally in presentations or defense of dissertations to supervisors, peers, or clients. Conducting laboratory or literature research on physical science, including atmospheric science topics. Desired Assessing the policy implications of science and technology issues in physical science topic areas, including foresight dimensions. Foresight refers to trying to anticipate and prepare for the potential future effects of scientific or technological changes, including unintended consequences. Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. You must meet all the requirements before the closing date of the announcement.

Education

This position has a positive education requirement. To qualify you must meet the requirements described below. Documentation to verify your education MUST be submitted with your application in order to be considered.

General Physical Science Series, 1301

Basic Requirements:

1. Degree: 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.

   or

2. Combination of education and experience -- education equivalent to one of the majors shown in A above that included at least 24 semester hours in physical science and/or related engineering science, plus appropriate experience or additional education.

Contacts

• Address Government Accountability Office Human Capital Office 441 G Street NW Washington, DC 20548 US
• Name: Ebonye Watson
• Email: [email protected]