Physical Scientist (Supervisory)

We are the nation’s art museum, home to a renowned collection of over 160,000 works of art from antiquity to today. Millions of people come through our doors each year—with even more online—making us one of the most visited art museums in the world. Located on the National Mall, admission to the West and East Buildings, Sculpture Garden, special exhibitions, and public programs is always free.

The Head of the Scientific Research Department reports to the Chief of Conservation within the division of the Chief Curatorial and Conservation Officer. This position serves the National Gallery of Art by ensuring high-quality analytical services and scientific research for the National Gallery in their role of studying and preserving collections.

Duties for this position include: Oversees the operation and administration of the Scientific Research Department in all respects, including personnel actions, budgets, and work assignments. Plans and executes a program of scientific research that studies artists’ materials, their chemistry, and degradation mechanisms utilizing state-of-the-art analytical methods Plans and executes a program to test and evaluate materials used for conservation.

Publishes scientific findings and supports staff research endeavors. Collaborates with conservators and curators on programs and publications that relate to the larger mission and goals of the institution.

Basic Requirements: 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 Combination of education and experience -- education equivalent to one of the majors shown in 1 above that included at least 24 semester hours in physical science and/or related engineering science, plus appropriate experience or additional education.

Specialized Experience Statement : Candidates must possess at least one year of specialized experience, equivalent in responsibility to the GS-14 level in the Federal service or private sector working with scientific methods and equipment associated with the study of materials commonly associated with artwork. OPM Qualifications Standard : Individual Occupational Requirements: General Physical Science Series, 1301 Associated Group standard: Group Coverage Qualification Standard for Professional and Scientific Positions Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.

g., Peace Corps, Ameri. Corps) 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.

This position does have an education requirement. Or a combination of education and experience.

Education

must be obtained from an accredited institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Foreign education must be reviewed by an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. For special instructions pertaining to foreign education and a list of organizations that can evaluate foreign education, see the Department of Education website .