Federal

Assistive Technology / Engineering and Physical Sciences Researcher - Mid to Experienced Level

๐Ÿ“ Fort Meade, Maryland GG-11/14 $105,262 - $192,764/yr
Posted: Mar 25, 2026 Deadline: Apr 4, 2026 (Closed days left)

About This Position

Assistive Technology (AT) Engineers collaborate with the Reasonable Accommodations Managers to provide reasonable accommodation requests involving assistive technology and specialized equipment. AT Engineers also support Agency partners to improve access to electronic and information technology for employees with disabilities.

Qualifications

The qualifications listed are the minimum acceptable to be considered for the position. Degree must be in either (1) Engineering, (2) Physics or Astronomy from an accredited college or university, or (3) a relevant professional technical field (for example, chemistry, computer science, mathematics, hydrology, geology). For Engineering degrees, if program is not ABET accredited, it must include specified coursework.* Specified coursework includes courses in differential and integral calculus and 5 of the following 18 areas: (a) statics or dynamics, (b) strength of materials/stress-strain relationships, (c) fluid mechanics, hydraulics, (d) thermodynamics, (e) electromagnetic fields, (f) nature and properties of materials/relating particle and aggregate structure to properties, (g) solid state electronics, (h) microprocessor applications, (i), computer systems, (j) signal processing, (k) digital design, (l) systems and control theory, (m) circuits or generalized circuits, (n) communication systems, (o) power systems, (p) computer networks, (q) software development, (r) Any other comparable area of fundamental engineering science or physics, such as optics, heat transfer, or soil mechanics.

Relevant experience must be in one or more of the following: performing engineering or physical sciences work, or conducting academic or independent research in a technical field (for example, mathematics, engineering, cognitive sciences and physical sciences). 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. SENIOR Entry is with a Bachelor's degree plus 7 years of relevant experience, or a Master's degree plus 5 years of relevant experience, or a Doctoral degree plus 3 years of relevant experience.

Major Duties

If you're skilled in Assistive Technology (AT) hardware and software, and have a knack for creating innovative solutions that promote IT accessibility as per Section 508 guidelines to support People with Disabilities (PWD), consider a role in NSA's Office of Reasonable Accommodations and Accessibility (ORAA). Our AT Engineers address diverse challenges to ensure NSA's employees and applicants with disabilities can fully participate in our mission areas. Join a proactive team that integrates assistive technology with applications, networks, and systems.

As an AT Engineer, your responsibilities will include: - Partnering with technical teams to uphold the integrity and accountability of AT systems and equipment. - Collaborating with disabled employees and applicants, alongside IT and Security colleagues, to implement assistive technology within a complex, secure environment. - Striving to make business and mission applications accessible to users of all abilities. - Working with Reasonable Accommodations Managers (RAMs) to evaluate and implement various accommodation requests involving Assistive Technology and other specialized equipment and software.

NOTE: Prior to applying, please ensure your College/University degree transcripts are included as an attachment on your IC Careers profile.

Education

The qualifications listed are the minimum acceptable to be considered for the position. Degree must be in either (1) Engineering, (2) Physics or Astronomy from an accredited college or university, or (3) a relevant professional technical field (for example, chemistry, computer science, mathematics, hydrology, geology). For Engineering degrees, if program is not ABET accredited, it must include specified coursework.* Specified coursework includes courses in differential and integral calculus and 5 of the following 18 areas: (a) statics or dynamics, (b) strength of materials/stress-strain relationships, (c) fluid mechanics, hydraulics, (d) thermodynamics, (e) electromagnetic fields, (f) nature and properties of materials/relating particle and aggregate structure to properties, (g) solid state electronics, (h) microprocessor applications, (i), computer systems, (j) signal processing, (k) digital design, (l) systems and control theory, (m) circuits or generalized circuits, (n) communication systems, (o) power systems, (p) computer networks, (q) software development, (r) Any other comparable area of fundamental engineering science or physics, such as optics, heat transfer, or soil mechanics.

How You Will Be Evaluated

- Interpersonal skills - Problem solving - Ability to work in teams - Clear writing for justifications and business cases

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: $105,262 - $192,764 (Full Performance, Senior) 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/1255568

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 Assistive Technology / Engineering and Physical Sciences Researcher - Mid to Experienced Level position at National Security Agency/Central Security Service?
The salary range for this position is $105,262 - $192,764/yr. This is a GG-11/14 position on the General Schedule pay scale. Actual pay may vary based on locality adjustments.
Where is the Assistive Technology / Engineering and Physical Sciences Researcher - Mid 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 either (1) Engineering, (2) Physics or Astronomy from an accredited college or university, or (3) a relevant professional technical field (for example, chemistry, computer science, mathematics, hydrology, geology). For Engineering degrees, i...
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 Apr 4, 2026.
Is a security clearance required?
Yes, a Sensitive Compartmented Information clearance is required.
What does GG-11/14 mean?
GG-11/14 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.