Job Description

Physical Science Technician (IS-1311-05)

Application Deadline: 23 September 2026

Department: Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory

Employment Type: Full Time

Location: Cambridge, MA

Compensation: $46,137 - $59,978 / year

Description

OPENING DATE: September 16, 2026

CLOSING DATE: September 23, 2026

TYPE OF POSITION: Trust Temporary (Non-Federal) Not To Exceed One Year

DIVISION: High Energy Astrophysics

LOCATION: Cambridge, MA

AREA OF CONSIDERATION: This position is open to all eligible candidates.

What are Trust Fund Positions?

Trust Fund positions are unique to the Smithsonian. They are paid for from a variety of sources, including the Smithsonian endowment, revenue from our business activities, donations, grants and contracts. Trust employees are not part of the civil service, nor does trust fund employment lead to Federal status. The salary ranges for trust positions are generally the same as for federal positions and in many cases trust and federal employees work side by side. Trust employees have their own benefit program and may include Health, Dental & Vision Insurance, Life Insurance, Transit/Commuter Benefits, Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance, Annual and Sick Leave, Family Friendly Leave, 403b Retirement Plan, Discounts for Smithsonian Memberships, Museum Stores and Restaurants, Credit Union, Smithsonian Early Enrichment Center (Childcare), Flexible Spending Account (Health & Dependent Care).

Conditions of Employment

• Pass Pre-employment Background Check and Subsequent Background Investigation, as required.
• Complete a Probationary Period if applicable.
• Maintain a Bank Account for Direct Deposit/Electronic Transfer.
• The position is open to all candidates eligible to work in the United States. Proof of eligibility to work in U.S. is not required to apply.
• Applicants must meet all qualification and eligibility requirements within 30 days of the closing date of this announcement.

OVERVIEW

INTRODUCTION

The Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory (SAO) is at the forefront, internationally, of the scientific exploration of the universe. SAO combines its resources with those of the Harvard College Observatory to form the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics (CfA). The CfA is the best-known astrophysics center in the world. Its programs range from ground-based astronomy and astrophysics research to space-based research, the engineering and development of major scientific instrumentation for space launch and use in large ground-based facilities, and research designed to improve science education. The research objectives of SAO are carried out primarily with the support of Government and Smithsonian Institution funds, with additional philanthropic support. Government funds are in the form of Federal appropriations or the form of contracts and grants from other agencies. In contrast, Institution funds are available to SAO through grants from the Institution's Restricted Funds, Special Purpose Funds, Bureau Activities, Business Activities, and non-Federal contracts and grants.

SUMMARY

The Physical Science Tech performs routine, structured physical science technical tasks supporting scientific programs such as geology, paleontology, hydrology, chemistry, or related physical science disciplines.

MAJOR DUTIES

Research Support:

• Assists in conducting a program of research and scholarship in high-redshift AGN under the supervision and direction of the Principal Investigator.
• Assists in the development of software and procedures for the reduction, analysis of imaging and spectra, and interpretation of data needed; or assists in the development of analytical methods and/or software to model physical processes and conditions.
• Assists in engaging in the wider research and scholarly activities of the research group.

Field Support:

• Conducts routine field sampling, measurements, and observations using established protocols.
• Documents field sites using mapping techniques, GPS unites, and standardized data sheets.
• Participates in field investigations, excavations, or sampling mission; ensures accurate notes and documentation accompany all fieldwork.
• Identifies situations not covered by instructions and seeks guidance from the supervisor.

Laboratory & Technical Support:

• Assists in preparing, consolidating, and processing physical science samples.
• Uses manual, electrical, and air powered tools to prepare specimens.
• Operates, maintains, and calibrates sampling, monitoring, and laboratory instruments following established procedures.
• Performs data entry, quality assurance checks, and routine instrument troubleshooting.

Data, Records, and Reporting:

• Enters collected data into databases; verifies accuracy and completeness.
• Assists in preparing draft reports, charts, graphs, and summaries of findings.
• Conducts basic literature searches to support project documentation.

Collections & Equipment:

• Assist specialist in identifying, cataloging, and maintaining physical science collections.
• Inventories equipment and supplies; ensure compliance with quality assurance procedures.

Logical & Project Support:

• Provides logistical support and orientation for visiting scientists or contractors.
• Offers basic technical information, ensures adherence to established policies, and resolves routine operational issues within assigned authority.
• Provides guidance to students or volunteers on routine tasks.

Perform other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

Basic Requirements:

One year specialized experience equivalent to at least next lower grade level (grade 4). Examples of qualifying specialized experience include work in the fields of astronomy, physics, geophysics, chemistry, hydrology, health physics, engineering, electronics, geology, oceanography, and metallurgy if it equipped the applicant with the knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform successfully the duties of this position.

Experience as a laboratory mechanic or in a trade or craft may be credited as general or specialized experience when the work was performed in close association with physical scientists or other technical personnel and provided intensive knowledge of appropriate scientific principles, methods, techniques, and precedents.

OR

Successful completion of a full 4-year course of study leading to a bachelor's degree (a) with major study in an appropriate field of physical science, or (b) that included at least 24 semester hours in any combination of courses such as physical science, engineering, or any branch of mathematics, except financial and commercial mathematics.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities required:

• Knowledge of basic physical science principles and the ability to perform routine tasks using established methods and procedures.
• Knowledge of the technical methods, principles, and practices of the field of X-ray and UV-optical astronomy data analysis, both spatial and spectral, including visualization and statistical analyses.
• Knowledge of data reduction and analysis techniques applicable to JWST and astronomy data in general.
• Ability to utilize computer technology in the solution of scientific problems.
• Knowledge of physics or astronomy sufficient to understand the basic scientific concepts pertaining to the data being analyzed.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a research group or scientific team.

Physical Requirements:

Fieldwork requires walking, standing, and lifting moderately heavy items. Some routine laboratory work is required. Work is primarily performed in an office or Laboratory setting.

Applicants who wish to qualify based on education completed outside the United States must be deemed equivalent to higher education programs of U.S. Institutions by an organization that specializes in the interpretation of foreign educational credentials. This documentation is the responsibility of the applicant and should be included as part of your application package.

Any false statement in your application may result in your application being rejected and may also result in termination after employment begins.

Join us in "Inspiring Generations through Knowledge and Discovery."

Resume/CV should include a description of your paid and non-paid work experience that is related to this job; starting and ending dates of the job (month and year); and average number of hours worked per week. College Transcript should be provided if using education for qualification.

What To Expect Next: Once the vacancy announcement closes, a review of your resume will be compared against the qualification and experience requirements related to this job. After review of applicant resumes is complete, qualified candidates will be referred to the hiring manager.

Relocation expenses are not paid.

The Smithsonian Institution provides reasonable accommodation to applicants with disabilities where appropriate. Applicants requiring reasonable accommodation should contact hr@cfa.harvard.edu. Determinations on requests for reasonable accommodation will be made on a case-by-case basis. To learn more, please review the Smithsonian’s Accommodation Procedures.

The Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity in our workplace. Please visit the SAO website at http://www.cfa.harvard.edu/