What are the responsibilities and job description for the SUPERVISORY (Interdisciplinary) SCIENTIST/ENGINEER position at National Science Foundation, Office of the Director?
The U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) is seeking qualified candidates for Supervisory (Interdisciplinary) Scientist/Engineer positions. These positions may be established within any NSF Directorate/Office.
Please visit www.nsf.gov for more information about the Foundation.
You will need to successfully complete a background security investigation before you can be appointed to this position.
You must meet eligibility and qualifications requirements by the closing date of the announcement.
Please visit www.nsf.gov for more information about the Foundation.
Qualifications:
The incumbent must have a Ph.D. in an appropriate field; or Master's degree with relevant experience; or equivalent professional experience in a field aligned with the NSF mission.
Candidates must demonstrate extensive, progressively responsible experience in scientific research, research administration, or program leadership that includes:
- Providing leadership and strategic direction for major scientific programs, portfolios, or facilities.
- Managing or overseeing policy development, budgeting, planning, and project management activities related to scientific research.
- Identifying emerging scientific trends and recommending programmatic priorities or new directions.
- Advising senior leadership and interacting on a peer basis with senior scientific and managerial officials across Federal agencies, academia, industry, and international organizations.
- Applying strong analytical skills to assess complex issues, establish priorities, and develop actionable recommendations.
Experience must demonstrate the ability to exercise independent judgment, influence strategic outcomes, and contribute to organizational leadership at a senior level.
Appointment to this position will be made under the Excepted Authority of the NSF Act. Candidates who do not have civil service status or reinstatement eligibility will not obtain civil service status if selected. Candidates currently in the competitive service will be required to waive competitive civil service rights if selected. Usual civil service benefits (retirement, health benefits, and life insurance) are applicable.You will need to successfully complete a background security investigation before you can be appointed to this position.
You must meet eligibility and qualifications requirements by the closing date of the announcement.
Responsibilities:
The Supervisory Scientist/Engineer serves as a principal advisor to the Directorate/Office Head, Assistant Director, Deputy Directorate/Office Head, and/or other senior organizational leadership, providing policy, scientific, and administrative expertise in assessing and addressing major collaborative initiatives and issues involving the Foundation's support of research, engineering, STEM education, research infrastructure, innovation, and other priority areas. The incumbent is expected to represent their Directorate/Office in policies and coordination activities. The incumbent coordinates on budget, planning matters, special studies, and reports.Major Duties and Responsibilities
- Serves as a senior scientific and policy advisor to Directorate/Office leadership on complex, interdisciplinary, and emerging research areas, providing expert analysis and recommendations.
- Provides strategic leadership in advancing organizational vision and integrating national priorities into program planning and implementation.
- Represents the Foundation on national and international committees, panels, and interagency groups; interprets and communicates NSF policies and funding priorities to the research community.
- Identifies and develops new and emerging research initiatives; leads special studies, cross-directorate projects, and strategic program reviews.
- Leads long-range planning and budget development for assigned portfolios; ensures effective stewardship of resources.
- Oversees the merit review process, award and declination decisions, and post-award oversight to ensure integrity, transparency, and compliance.
- Collaborates with senior leadership, Deputy Directorate Heads, and business operations staff to align scientific priorities with operational and budgetary considerations.
- Assists in recruiting and mentoring IPA assignees, STEM professionals, and other staff to sustain scientific excellence.
Salary : $202,543