Federal

Applied Research Mathematician / Mathematical Statistician - Entry to Experienced Level

๐Ÿ“ Fort Meade, Maryland GG-7/12 $87,362 - $153,082/yr
Posted: Mar 9, 2026 Deadline: Mar 22, 2026 (Closed days left)

About This Position

NSA is actively searching for mathematicians and mathematical statisticians like you to join a vibrant community of mathematicians, statisticians, physicists, computer scientists, data scientists, and other intelligence professionals. For more information, please visit: https://apply.intelligencecareers.gov/job-description/1254966

Qualifications

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.

ENTRY/DEVELOPMENTAL Entry is with a Bachelor's degree and no experience. 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 and no experience. 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.

Major Duties

At NSA, mathematics and statistics are core disciplines present in every aspect of our mission: to protect our Nation. The mission requires a strong offense and a steadfast defense. The offense collects, processes, and disseminates intelligence information derived from foreign signals for intelligence and counterintelligence purposes.

The defense prevents adversaries from gaining access to sensitive classified national security information. Mathematicians and Mathematical Statisticians contribute across our mission by bringing both subject matter expertise and creative, critical thinking. A wide range of technical expertise finds a natural fit at NSA including, but not limited to, fields of algebra, combinatorics, Fourier analysis, operations research, graph analytics, regression, machine learning, exploratory data analysis, stochastic processes, statistical modeling, forecasting, and cryptography.

NSA solves its hardest problems and develops innovative solutions by bringing together people with a wide range of mathematical backgrounds, skills, and viewpoints, which is key for NSA mission success. The Agency supports a dynamic mathematics community with substantial opportunities to learn and experiment in areas far from academic training. Additionally, professional development is supported by hands-on training, seminar series, conference travel, and professional organizations.

These opportunities and core mission needs help make NSA the largest employer of mathematicians and mathematical statisticians in the country. Newly-hired mathematicians and mathematical statisticians begin their careers in the Mathematics Development Program (MDP). The goal of the three-year MDP is to provide on-the-job training in the broad range of mathematical and statistical sciences at NSA.

This is primarily accomplished through 6-month tours in NSA offices of the MDP participant's choosing. Mentorship is provided for each tour and participants work on real mission problems. MDP members also study cryptologic mathematics, statistical data mining, and related subjects in courses taught by Agency experts.

Participants are required to develop skills in programming and using computational resources to solve mission problems. Various short-term and long-term travel opportunities exist for interested participants but are not required.

NOTE: Please submit your application, including transcripts, through apply.intelligencecareers.gov. In addition, you should also send a soft copy PDF of your resume/CV, and all college transcripts (to include undergraduate, graduate, and transfer transcripts) to [email protected].

You may also include a cover letter (optional).

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.

How You Will Be Evaluated

Candidates must possess: - Strong problem-solving and analytical skills - Desire for continual learning - Ability to work effectively both independently and as a member of a team Knowledge and experience in one or more of the following areas is desired but not required. Successful applicants may learn these skills at the Agency. - Programming expertise in any language - Experience in the design, development, use, and evaluation of mathematical models, methods and/or techniques (e.g., algorithm development)

NOTE: Please submit your application, including transcripts, through apply.intelligencecareers.gov. In addition, you should also send a soft copy PDF of your resume/CV, and all college transcripts (to include undergraduate, graduate, and transfer transcripts) to [email protected].

You may also include a cover letter (optional).

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: $87,362 - $153,082 (Entry/Developmental, Full Performance) 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). DCIPS Trial Period: If selected for this position, you will be required to serve a two-year DCIPS trial period, unless you are a veterans' preference-eligible employee, in which case you are required to serve a one-year trial period.

This trial period runs concurrently with your commitment to the position, if applicable. Before finalizing your appointment at the conclusion of your trial period, NSA will determine whether your continued employment advances the public interest. This decision will be based on factors such as your performance and conduct; the Agency's needs and interests; whether your continued employment would advance the Agency's organizational goals; and whether your continued employment would advance the efficiency of the Federal service.

Upon completion of your trial period, your employment will be terminated unless you receive certification, in writing, that your continued employment advances the public interest. If you do not receive certification for continued employment, you should receive written notice prior to the end of your trial period that your employment will be terminated and the effective date of such termination.

How to Apply

To apply, please visit: https://apply.intelligencecareers.gov/job-description/1254966

Required Documents

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the salary for the Applied Research Mathematician / Mathematical Statistician - Entry to Experienced Level position at National Security Agency/Central Security Service?
The salary range for this position is $87,362 - $153,082/yr. This is a GG-7/12 position on the General Schedule pay scale. Actual pay may vary based on locality adjustments.
Where is the Applied Research Mathematician / Mathematical Statistician - Entry to Experienced Level job located?
This position is located in Fort Meade, Maryland. This is an on-site position.
What qualifications do I need?
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 ...
How do I apply for this position?
Apply through USAJobs.gov by clicking the 'Apply on USAJobs' button. You'll need a USAJobs account, a federal-style resume, and supporting documents. The deadline is Mar 22, 2026.
Is a security clearance required?
Yes, a Sensitive Compartmented Information clearance is required.
What does GG-7/12 mean?
GG-7/12 refers to the General Schedule grade level. Higher grades require more experience and offer higher pay. Visit our GS Pay Scale page for full salary tables by grade and locality.
What benefits do federal employees receive?
Federal employees receive comprehensive benefits including health insurance (FEHB), retirement through FERS, Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching, paid annual and sick leave, paid parental leave, life insurance, and student loan repayment programs.