NSA's Mathematics Research Group conducts world-class mathematical research with the objective of developing new and innovative techniques and technologies to support our Signals Intelligence and Cybersecurity missions, as well as the broader Intelligence Community (IC). We are actively seeking mathematicians to join our Mathematics Research Group.
Summary
NSA's Mathematics Research Group conducts world-class mathematical research with the objective of developing new and innovative techniques and technologies to support our Signals Intelligence and Cybersecurity missions, as well as the broader Intelligence Community (IC). We are actively seeking mathematicians to join our Mathematics Research Group.
NSA conducts world-class research with the objective of developing new and innovative techniques and technologies to support our Signals Intelligence and Cybersecurity missions, as well as the broader Intelligence Community (IC).
We are actively seeking experienced mathematicians or physicists with subject matter expertise in quantum algorithms and/or quantum error correction to support NSA's and the US Government's strategic efforts in quantum computing. If you are interested in joining a dynamic team with a proven track record of developing impactful research results, then please apply for this position. Candidates will be expected to engage with the NSA and US government quantum computing efforts, identify important research problems within this space, and conduct research to support NSA and US government goals in quantum computing.
Candidates must have research and/or development experience (beyond basic coursework) in quantum algorithms and/or quantum error correction. Demonstrations of this record could include publishing in academic journals or delivering operational solutions to technical problems for customers from government or industry. A PhD is not required, although candidates must have acquired an advanced level of experience and mastery (beyond simply taking a few courses) in some area of quantum computing. Demonstrated success with effective technical writing and the ability to explain results to a non-technical audience is desirable. Experience with at least one of the following programming languages and/or software packages is desirable: C/C++, Rust, Python, SageMath, MAGMA.
The ideal candidate will have a grounded background in mathematical tools, techniques, and theory, as well as a drive to apply that knowledge to complex and often ambiguous real-world situations. The ideal candidate will also have the ability to prototype and implement solutions in computer code/scripting, and a desire to stretch outside their comfort zone in a career that offers lifelong learning opportunities.
While the primary research focus for this position is quantum computing, candidates could also have the option to contribute to other mathematics research efforts of interest to NSA. These efforts involve a wide range of areas of mathematics, including linear algebra, number theory, probability, statistics, analysis, graph theory, or other areas of theoretical mathematics. Other areas of interest include cryptomathematics, algorithm development, computer network security, and vulnerability analysis. Interest in any of these areas is not required, but will be looked upon favorably.
All applicants and employees are subject to random drug testing in accordance with Executive Order 12564. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a security background investigation and polygraph.
Qualifications
Relevant experience must be in one or more of the following: the design, development, use, and evaluation of mathematics models, methods, or techniques (for example, algorithm development) to study issues and solve problems. Experience may also include, network engineering, computer science, physics, software engineering, electrical engineering. For Senior and Expert levels, leadership experience can count for up to half the experience requirement.
FULL PERFORMANCE Entry is with a Bachelor's degree plus 3 years of relevant experience, or a Master's degree plus 1 year of relevant experience, or a Doctoral degree with no experience.
SENIOR Entry is with a Bachelor's degree plus 6 years of relevant experience, or a Master's degree plus 4 years of relevant experience, or a Doctoral degree plus 2 years of relevant experience. Leadership experience can count for up to half the experience requirement.
EXPERT Entry is with a Bachelor's degree plus 9 years of relevant experience, or a Master's degree plus 7 years of relevant experience, or a Doctoral degree plus 5 years of experience. Leadership experience can count for up to half the experience requirement.
Education
The qualifications listed are the minimum acceptable to be considered for the position.
Degree must be in Mathematics, Physics, Engineering, Data Science, Computer Science, Statistics, or a related STEM field. Degree must include at least 24 semester credit hours (or 36 credit hours from universities on a quarter system) in advanced mathematics courses.
Additional information
Pay: Salary offers are based on candidates' education level and years of experience relevant to the position and also take into account information provided by the hiring manager/organization regarding the work level for the position.
Salary Range: $104,219 - $195,200 (Full Performance, Senior, Expert)
Salary range varies by location, work level, and relevant experience to the position.
Training will be provided based on the selectee's needs and experience.
Benefits: NSA offers a comprehensive benefits package.
Work Schedule: This is a full-time position, Monday - Friday, with basic 8hr/day work requirement between 6:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. (flexible).
Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.
How you will be evaluated
You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.
Candidates must possess:
- Research and/or development experience (beyond basic coursework) in quantum algorithms and/or quantum error correction
- Strong problem-solving and analytical skills
- Desire for continual learning
- Ability to work effectively both independently and within unique teams
The ideal candidate has excellent problem solving, communication, and interpersonal skills. The following knowledge and skills would also be useful:
- Knowledge of mathematical concepts, principles, and theories and familiarity with other scientific and engineering disciplines
- Knowledge of mathematics and related disciplines to design, develop and adapt scientific methods and technologies.
- Knowledge of analytical techniques to develop, simulate, and analyze data.
- Knowledge of computer operations and standard software applications.
- Ability to conduct research, including studies, experiments, and investigations.
- Ability to analyze data using appropriate tools.
- Ability to analyze problems to determine technical solutions.
- Experience creating computer algorithms, data models, and protocols.
- Ability to identify new applications of known techniques.
- Ability to analyze data using statistical methods.
- Ability to analyze new algorithms and protocols.
- Experience developing and applying mathematical or computational methods.
A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.
The National Security Agency (NSA) is part of the DoD Intelligence Community Defense Civilian Intelligence Personnel System (DCIPS). All positions in the NSA are in the Excepted Services under 10 United States Codes (USC) 1601 appointment authority. DoD Components with DCIPS positions apply Veterans' Preference to eligible candidates as defined by Section 2108 of Title 5 USC, in accordance with the procedures provided in DoD Instruction 1400.25, Volume 2005, DCIPS Employment and Placement. If you are a veteran claiming veterans' preference, as defined by Section 2108 of Title 5 U.S.C., you may be asked to submit documents verifying your eligibility.
If you are relying on your education to meet qualification requirements:
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.
The National Security Agency (NSA) is part of the DoD Intelligence Community Defense Civilian Intelligence Personnel System (DCIPS). All positions in the NSA are in the Excepted Services under 10 United States Codes (USC) 1601 appointment authority. DoD Components with DCIPS positions apply Veterans' Preference to eligible candidates as defined by Section 2108 of Title 5 USC, in accordance with the procedures provided in DoD Instruction 1400.25, Volume 2005, DCIPS Employment and Placement. If you are a veteran claiming veterans' preference, as defined by Section 2108 of Title 5 U.S.C., you may be asked to submit documents verifying your eligibility.
If you are relying on your education to meet qualification requirements:
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.
