Forensics and Drug Analytical Chemist

Forensics and Drug Analytical Chemist

Department: Department of Commerce

Location(s): Gaithersburg, Maryland

Salary Range: $85447 - $133142 Per Year

Job Summary: The NIST Material Measurement Laboratory (MML) conducts measurement science research to benefit industries based in the chemical, biological, and material sciences, and contributes technical expertise to the development of standards. MML researchers perform fundamental and applied research, evaluate data, and create other programs and tools to assure the quality of measurement results. We're looking for a Forensics and Drug Analytical Chemist to join our team!

Major Duties:

• At the NIST Material Measurement Laboratory (MML), our measurement science research serves as the foundation for quality and innovation across the chemical, biological, and material sciences. We are looking for an independent, highly skilled researcher to join our team and tackle critical measurement challenges within the forensic chemistry disciplines of seized drugs and trace evidence. If you are a scientist who thrives in a highly equipped lab and is driven to create real-world solutions for the forensic community, this is your opportunity to make a lasting impact. In this position, you will: Plan and execute rigorous, self-directed research targeting complex measurement challenges in seized drugs and trace evidence. Utilize cutting-edge analytical equipment, applying both traditional chromatographic and ambient ionization mass spectrometry for precise qualitative and quantitative analysis. Utilize and refine the analytical techniques and methods actively used in modern forensic laboratories to ensure your research translates directly to the field. Bring your hands-on expertise to maintain, troubleshoot, and repair advanced chromatography and mass spectrometry equipment, keeping your research environment operating at peak performance. Bridge the gap between the lab and the real world by developing comprehensive documentary packages that allow forensic laboratories to validate and implement your new analytical methods. Act as a thought leader in your field by authoring peer-reviewed manuscripts and presenting your research findings at national and international conferences.

Qualifications: All applicants must submit a resume NOT TO EXCEED two pages on standard-size paper. If the resume exceeds two pages, only the first two pages will be reviewed for qualifications or assessment determinations. Individual Occupational Requirements Basic Requirements: Degree: physical sciences, life sciences, or engineering that included 30 semester hours in chemistry, supplemented by course work in mathematics through differential and integral calculus, and at least 6 semester hours of physics. OR Combination of education and experience -- course work equivalent to a major as shown in A above, including at least 30 semester hours in chemistry, supplemented by mathematics through differential and integral calculus, and at least 6 semester hours of physics, plus appropriate experience or additional education. In addition to the basic requirements, applicants must have at least one year (52 weeks) of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-09 level (ZP-II for NIST). Specialized experience for this position is defined as experience assisting in the analysis of materials relevant to seized drugs and in trace evidence analyses using techniques and methods. Examples of applicable techniques and methods include: Advanced chromatography and mass spectrometry equipment for qualitative and quantitative analysis Ambient ionization mass spectrometry methods for qualitative analysis Other analytical methods used in forensic laboratories and experience in assisting in the development of documented procedures for implementation of analytical methods in forensic laboratories. Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) 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. The qualification requirements in this vacancy announcement are based on the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Qualification Standards Handbook. If requesting reconsideration of your qualification determination, please refer to the following site: Applicant Reconsideration

How to Apply: Please read the entire announcement and all the instructions before you begin an application. To apply and be considered for this position, you must complete all required questionnaires, assessments, and required documentation as specified in the How to Apply and Required Documents section. The complete application package must be submitted by 11:59 PM (ET) on the closing date of the announcement to receive consideration. The application process is as follows: Click the Apply Online button. Answer the questions presented in the application and attach all necessary supporting documentation. Click the Submit Application button prior to 11:59 PM (ET) on the announcement closing date. As part of the application process, you will be asked to respond to four narrative questions. While your responses to these questions is not required and will not be scored, we encourage you to thoughtfully address each question. You will be asked to certify that you are using your own words and did not use a consultant or artificial intelligence (AI) such as a large language model (LLM) like ChatGPT or Copilot. Once your application has been submitted, you will receive a confirmation notification by email. The Human Resources Office will evaluate your application to determine your eligibility for the position. After the evaluation is complete, you will receive another notification regarding the status of your application. To update your application, including supporting documentation: During the announcement open period, return to your USAJOBS account, find your application record, and click Edit my application. This option will no longer be available once the announcement has closed. To view the announcement status or your application status: Click on this: USAJOBS Help Center - How to see your application and job status Your application status page is where you can view your application status, USA Hire assessment completion status, and review your notifications sent by the hiring agency regarding your application. Need help applying? If you are experiencing any difficulties with the online application process (anything after you have clicked the 'Apply Online' button), please contact the Agency Contact listed on this announcement between regular business hours (8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. ET). If you receive any kind of error message, please be ready to provide a screenshot or, at a minimum, the error message text and number. We will provide you with a technical support number for further assistance if necessary. If you are having trouble with USAJOBS (searching for jobs, account password/profile issues, or Resume Builder), please visit the USAJOBS USAJOBS Help Center - How to.... We regret that we are unable to support any issues with USAJOBS, as this service is not maintained by the NIST. If you are experiencing a significant hardship that hinders your ability to apply online, please contact the Agency Contact listed on this announcement prior to the vacancy closing date and during regular business hours to discuss your situation.

Application Deadline: 2026-03-23