Duties

Summary

Click on "Learn more about this agency" button below to view Eligibilities being considered and other IMPORTANT information.

The primary purpose of this position is to serve as a key analyst and recognized expert performing professional and scientific work requiring the design, development, and adaptation of mathematical, statistical, econometric, and other scientific methods and techniques and provide advice and insight about the probable effects of alternative courses of action.
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Responsibilities

• Performs complete studies of limited scope or portions of larger projects, modifying/adapting techniques to fit situations, some requiring innovative approaches.
• Utilizes scientific inquiry in the independent development of mathematical models and computer programs to evaluate and predict the ability to support assigned projects, studies, or problems.
• Provides technical guidance, advisory support, and assistance on an entire project and/or major phases for broad and varied operations.
• Attends meetings, conferences, briefings, and seminars related to program planning, advanced technologies, and support system concepts.

Travel Required

Occasional travel - You may be expected to travel for this position.

Supervisory status
No

Promotion Potential
13

Requirements

Conditions of Employment

• U.S. Citizenship Required
• Males must be registered for Selective Service, see www.sss.gov
• Must be able to obtain and maintain a Top Secret SCI security clearance
• PCS expenses will not be authorized
• This position is subject to provisions of the DoD Priority Placement Program
• Position is subject to pre-employment and random drug testing
• Work may require travel away from the normal duty station on military and commercial aircraft
• Disclosure of Political Appointments

Qualifications

THIS IS A POSITIVE EDUCATION SERIES POSITION; YOU MUST INCLUDE YOUR UNOFFICIAL TRANSCRIPT AT TIME OF APPLICATION TO SUPPORT THE EDUCATION REQUIREMENT OF THIS POSITION.

Basic Requirement for Operations Research (1515):
Degree: Bachelor's degree (or higher degree) in operations research; or a bachelor's degree (or higher degree) with at least 24 semester hours in a combination of operations research, mathematics, probability, statistics, mathematical logic, science, or subject-matter courses requiring substantial competence in college-level mathematics or statistics. At least 3 of the 24 semester hours must have been in calculus.
Basic Requirement for Computer Scientist (1550):
Degree: Bachelor's degree (or higher degree) in computer science or bachelor's degree (or higher degree) with 30 semester hours in a combination of mathematics, statistics, and computer science. At least 15 of the 30 semester hours must have included any combination of statistics and mathematics that included differential and integral calculus.
In addition to meeting the basic requirement above, to qualify for this position you must also meet the qualification requirements listed below:

SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE: (For the GS-11) Applicants must have at least one (1) year of specialized experience at the next lower grade GS-09, or equivalent in other pay systems. Examples of specialized experience includes: 1) Assisting with computer modeling techniques and procedures, designing sample surveys, and modifying established methods; 2) Applying scientific methods and techniques to analyze systems, processes, and/or operational problems and procedures; 3) utilizing knowledge of mathematics and analysis to perform studies and prepare reports, documentation, and correspondence to communicate recommendations/conclusions.

OR

EDUCATION:
To qualify for the Operations Research Analyst position at the GS-11 level based on education, research positions requires a master's degree or equivalent graduate degree in Operations Research or appropriate field of study which demonstrates the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to do the work of the position.

To qualify for the Computer Scientist position at the GS-11 level based on education, requires a Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree or 3 full years of progressively higher level graduate education leading to such a degree in Computer Science or appropriate field which demonstrates the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to do the work of the position.

SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE: (For the GS-12) Applicants must have at least one (1) year of specialized experience at the next lower grade GS-11, or equivalent in other pay systems. Examples of specialized experience includes: 1) Applying researched methods and techniques to design, build, and use complex mathematical models and sophisticated computer models to simulate real-world environments of many variables; 2) Applying quantitative techniques and methods used to develop, adapt, modify, and apply models to resolve problems or define and clarify alternative solutions; 3) Coordinating extensive projects that are characterized by high visibility, unusual urgency, or program criticality; AND 4) Prepare technical reports and document progress and results of each study

OR

EDUCATION:
To qualify for the Operations Research Analyst position based on education at the GS-12 level, research positions requires a Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree in Operations Research or appropriate field of study which demonstrates the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to do the work of the position.

Education is not substitutable for specialized experience for the Computer Scientist GS-12 grade level. You must qualify based on specialized experience.

SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE: (For the GS-13) Applicants must have at least one (1) year of specialized experience at the next lower grade GS-12, or equivalent in other pay systems. Examples of specialized experience includes: Applying researched methods and techniques to design, build, and use complex mathematical models and sophisticated computer models to simulate real-world environments of many variables; 2) Applying quantitative techniques and methods to develop, adapt, modify, and apply models to resolve problems or define and clarify alternative solutions; 3) Initiating and formulating plans and carries out project(s) through extensive and specialized original performance analyses and evaluation, AND 4) Skill to negotiate and/or defend findings and program support concepts.

Education is not substitutable for specialized experience for both the Operations Research Analyst and Computer Scientist positions at the GS-13 grade level. You must qualify based on specialized experience.

To view qualifying educational requirements and/or combination of education and specialized experience click on the following link: https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/#GS-PROF

FEDERAL TIME-IN-GRADE (TIG) REQUIREMENT FOR GENERAL SCHEDULE (GS) POSITIONS: Merit promotion applicants must meet applicable time-in-­grade requirements to be considered eligible. One year at the GS-09 level is required to meet the time-in-grade requirements for the GS-11 level. One year at the GS-11 level is required to meet the time-in-grade requirements for the GS-12 level. One year at the GS-12 level is required to meet the time-in-grade requirements for the GS-13 level. TIG applies if you are in a current GS position or held a GS position within the previous 52 weeks.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (KSAs): Your qualifications will be evaluated on the basis of your level of knowledge, skills, abilities and/or competencies in the following areas:
GS-11
1. Knowledge of a wide range of principles, concepts, and practices of Computer Science and Operations Research to apply scientific methods and techniques to analyze systems, processes, and/or operational problems and procedures.
2. Knowledge of mathematics, analysis, and computer science to perform studies and prepare reports, documentation, and correspondence to communicate recommendations/conclusions clearly.
3. Knowledge of quantitative techniques and methods used to develop, adapt, modify, and apply computer based models to resolve problems or define and clarify alternative solutions.
4. Ability to analyze, interpret, and apply basic research procedures in a variety of situations and recommend solutions to senior analysts.

GS-12 and GS-13
1. In-depth knowledge of a broad range of computer science and operations research techniques with possession of
analytical abilities.
2. Extensive knowledge of computer science techniques and methods used to develop, adapt, modify, and apply models to resolve problems
3. Expert knowledge of quantitative techniques and methods used to develop, adapt, modify, and apply models to resolve problems.
4. Skill to negotiate and defend findings and program support concepts.
5. Ability to develop appropriate data collection techniques and design, build, and use computer models and simulation techniques.

PART-TIME OR UNPAID EXPERIENCE: Credit will be given for appropriate unpaid and or part-time work. You must clearly identify the duties and responsibilities in each position held and the total number of hours per week.

VOLUNTEER WORK EXPERIENCE: Refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service Programs (i.e., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student and social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge and skills that can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.

Education

IF USING EDUCATION TO QUALIFY: You MUST provide transcripts to support your educational claims. Education must be accredited by an accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

FOREIGN EDUCATION: Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the requirements. You must show proof the education credentials have been deemed to be at least equivalent to that gained in conventional U.S. education program. It is your responsibility to provide such evidence when applying.

Additional information

Current or Former Federal Civilian Employees (Includes current Air Force employees): You are required to submit legible copy/copies of your last or most recent SF-50, Notification of Personnel Action, (block 24 must be a "1" or "2" AND block 34 must be a"1"). Additionally, if you are applying for a higher grade (GS) and your SF-50 has an effective date within the past year, it may not clearly demonstrate you meet the one year time-in-grade requirement so you will need to provide an SF-50 which clearly demonstrates you meet the time-in-grade requirements (examples of appropriate SF-50s include Promotions, Within-grade Grade/Range Increases, and SF-50s with an effective date more than one year old)

Interagency Career Transition Assistance Program (ICTAP): For information on how to apply as an ICTAP eligible click here . To be well-qualified and exercise selection priority for this vacancy, displaced Federal employees must be rated well qualified or above for this position. You must submit a copy of the agency notice, your most recent performance rating, and your most recent SF-50 noting position, grade level, and duty location.

Employed Annuitants (Reemployed Annuitants): Applicants in receipt of an annuity based on civilian employment in the Federal Service are subject to the DoD Policy on The Employment of Annuitants. Click here for more information.

Current Federal Civilian employees may apply for temporary and term positions and if selected, a break in service of more than three (3) calendar days may be required prior to appointment to the position.

90-Day Register: This announcement may result in a 90-day register that may be used to fill like vacancies for 90 days after the closing date. Applicants may be referred for consideration as vacancies occur.

Direct Deposit: All federal employees are required to have direct deposit.

If you have questions regarding this announcement and have hearing or speech difficulties click here .

How You Will Be Evaluated

You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.

Your application package (resume, supporting documents, and responses to the questionnaire) will be used to determine your eligibility, qualifications, and quality ranking for this position. Please follow all instructions carefully. Errors or omissions may affect your rating or consideration for employment.

The resume/documents you submit must support your responses to the online questionnaire. If your application contradicts or does not support your questionnaire responses, you will receive a rating of "not qualified" or "insufficient information" and you will not receive further consideration for this job.

For additional information on what to include in your resume, click here .

Applicants who meet the requirements for and apply as a non-competitive eligible that meet minimal qualifications and other requirements of this position, will be given consideration as a non-competitive candidate and will be referred unless blocked by an individual with priority/preference.

APPRAISALS/AWARDS: Hiring Managers use objective methods and consider previous performance appraisals and awards in the selection process. Current Federal Civilian employees should list any relevant performance related rating and/or awards in your resume.

Applicants who disqualify themselves will not be evaluated further.

Background checks and security clearance

Security clearance
Sensitive Compartmented Information

Drug test required
Yes

Position sensitivity and risk
Special-Sensitive (SS)/High Risk

Trust determination process
National security

Required Documents

The following documents are required and must be provided with your application. Other documents may be required based on the eligibility/eligibilities you are claiming. Click here to view the AF Civilian Employment Eligibility Guide and the required documents you must submit to substantiate the eligibilities you are claiming.

Online Application - Questionnaire

Resume - must include beginning and ending month and year for each employment period and hours worked per week. If you are a current Federal employee or previous Federal employee, provide your pay plan, series and grade level, i.e., GS-0301-09. Do NOT include photographs (or links to social media such as LinkedIn ), inappropriate material, inappropriate content, or personal information such as age, gender, religion, social security number, etc., on your resume.

Transcripts - if you are basing your qualifications on education or if the position requires education, you must submit copies of your transcripts

Registration/License - active, current registration/license if applicable for the position

If claiming VRA, VEOA or Veterans' Preference - a copy of your DD Form 214, which must include character of service or a Statement of Service/Proof of Service which must include service dates and character of service. In addition, if claiming 10-point preference and/or 30% Disabled Veteran, you must submit a VA Letter or a disability determination from a branch of the Armed Forces (or documentation of purple heart, if applicable) and a SF 15 (Application for 10-point veteran preference).

Current or Former Federal Civilian Employees (Includes current Air Force employees): You are required to submit legible copy/copies of your last or most recent SF-50, Notification of Personnel Action, (block 24 must be a "1" or "2" AND block 34 must be a"1"). Additionally, if you are applying for a higher grade (GS) and your SF-50 has an effective date within the past year, it may not clearly demonstrate you meet the one year time-in-grade requirement so you will need to provide an SF-50 which clearly demonstrates you meet the time-in-grade requirements (examples of appropriate SF-50s include Promotions, Within-grade Grade/Range Increases, and SF-50s with an effective date more than one year old).

Applicants must refer to the AF Civilian Employment Eligibility Guide (link provided above) for a complete list of required documents for each eligibility you identify.

ACTIVE DUTY SERVICE MEMBERS: The VOW Act Chapter 21 of Title 5, United States Code (U.S.C.), Section 2108a, requires Federal agencies treat active duty service member as veterans, disabled veterans, and preference eligible, when they submit, at the time they apply for a Federal job, a "certification" of active service in lieu of a DD-214, assuming the service member is otherwise eligible. A "certification" letter should be on letterhead of the appropriate military branch of the service and contain (1) the military service dates including the expected discharge or release date; and (2) the character of service. The service member's military service dates are necessary in order to determine whether he or she meets the definition of "veteran" under 5 U.S.C. 2108(1). The "certification" must reflect 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 of submission. The "certification" must be signed by, or by direction of, the adjutant, personnel officer, or commander of your unit or higher headquarters and must indicate when your terminal leave will begin (if applicable), your rank, dates of active duty service, the type of discharge and character of service (i.e. honorable). Further, under paragraph (h) of the rule, agencies are required to verify a qualifying separation from military service prior to appointment, through the DD-214 or other appropriate documentation. Your preference and/or appointment eligibility will be verified prior to appointment. Active duty members that fail to provide a valid "certification" of service with their initial application will be found "not eligible." Military members may be appointed before the effective date of their military retirement/separation if member is on terminal leave.

OPTIONAL DOCUMENTS:
Performance Appraisals for Current Federal Civilian Employees - Most recent performance appraisals (dated within last 3 years) showing the official rating of record, signed by a supervisor, or statement why the performance appraisal is unavailable. Applicant should not submit an appraisal that does not include this information.
Awards for Current Federal Civilian Employees - Copies of any award received within the last 3 years.

If you are relying on your education to meet qualification requirements:

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.