PHYSICAL SCIENCE TECHNICIAN

Description:

The primary purpose of this position is to manage and teach the Solar Optical Observing Network (SOON) operator's (solar analyst) course and provide space weather products and services vital to the operational customers and resource protection support efforts to the Department of Defense, United States Air Force, United States Space Force, and/or other customers. Employee assists management in developing and administering an on-the-job SOON training program.

Requirements:

In order to qualify, you must meet the specialized experience requirements described in the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Qualification Standards for General Schedule Positions, Group Coverage Qualification Standard for Technical and Medical Support Positions.

SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE: Applicants must have at least one (1) year of specialized experience at the next lower grade GS-10 , or equivalent in other pay systems, in the fields of astronomy, physics, geophysics, chemistry, hydrology, health physics, engineering, electronics, geology, oceanography, and metallurgy with the knowledge of scientific principles, methods, techniques, and precedents. Examples of specialized experience includes comprehensive knowledge of the 557th Weather Wing's 2d Weather Squadron and Space Weather Operations Center - its mission, organization, and operation; working knowledge of basic astronomy and optical principles - solar physics, transmission, polarization, spectroscopy, etc.; Comprehensive knowledge of the operation and daily operations of the AN/FMQ-7 solar optical telescope and the Air Force SEON; thorough knowledge of solar optical observing principles, procedures, methods, techniques, and practices; analyzing solar optical structures and magnetic field data; knowledge of Air Force astro geophysical data codes (FLARE, EVENT, DALAS, etc.); working knowledge of basic computer principles; operation of audiovisual equipment (overhead projectors, webcams, teleconferencing software, etc.); planning and management of projects; interpreting policy in terms of established objectives, resolving problems, and coordinating work with others.

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-10 level is required to meet the time-in-grade requirements for the GS-11 level. TIG applies if you are in a current GS position or held a GS position within the previous 52 weeks. NOTE: Applicants applying as VEOA candidates who are current GS civil service employees or are prior GS civil service employees within the past 52 weeks must also meet time-in-grade requirements.

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:

1. Knowledge of solar optical observing methods, techniques, and practices, including solar physics, space weather physics and principles, telescope instrumentation systems/peripherals, communications, and support procedures.

2. Skill in using various computer software and various applications.

3. Skill in written and oral communication to prepare and present lectures, guidance products, briefings, coordinates planning efforts, and manages program activities.

4. Ability to operate the AN/FMQ-7 solar optical telescope (and its peripherals) and communication equipment. Ability to measure space weather phenomena with scientific equipment to collect, analyze, interpret, adjust, and verify solar environmental data to confirm and improve its accuracy and effectiveness.

5. Ability to maintain certification equivalent to an AN/FMQ-7 Solar Analyst.

6. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships using tact and diplomacy in interacting with individuals and unit representatives.

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.