NAVOBSERV (DON)
Summary
This public notice flyer informs interested applicants of anticipated vacancies. Applications will not be accepted through this flyer. Interested applicants must follow directions in the “How to Apply” section of this flyer to be considered. Notice of Result letters will not be sent to applicants who respond to this flyer.
GS-12: $101,401 – $131,826
GS-11: $84,601 – $109,975
Overview
Open & Closing Dates: 11/04/2025 to 11/13/2025 Salary: $84,601 to $131,826 per year Pay Scale & Grade: GS 11–12 Location: Washington, DC (1 vacancy) Remote job: No Telework eligible: Yes—ad‑hoc/situational telework at discretion of management Travel required: Occasional travel – up to 10% Relocation expenses reimbursed: Yes—under 5 USC 5753, subject to discretion of management Appointment type: Permanent Work schedule: Full‑time Service: Competitive, Promotion potential 12 Salary Series: 1330 Astronomy and Space Science Security clearance: Top Secret Drug test: Yes Position sensitivity and risk: Special‑Sensitive (SS)/High Risk; Trust determination process includes national security Financial disclosure: No Bargaining unit status: Yes – bargaining unit position Announcement number: DE-12828536-26-MLV Control number: 849292600 Duties
Serve as an Astronomer in the Earth Orientation Department, GPS Analysis Division of the U.S. NAVAL OBSERVATORY. Participate in GPS and GNSS analysis activities such as estimating satellite orbits, receiver‑and‑satellite‑clock corrections, positions of the Earth’s rotation pole, UT1 values, and other related quantities from GPS and GNSS measurements. Perform daily determination of earth orientation parameters using state‑of‑the‑art methods in software analysis, including daily monitoring activities. Design, code, test, and implement required computer programs, and evaluate/update existing programs. Validate that existing algorithms and inputs currently in use at USNO produce accurate estimates with a focus on GNSS estimates. Write and present scientific/technical material to audiences and standard operating procedures. Develop and maintain knowledge in celestial mechanics, orbit determination, geodesy, geophysics, time‑series analysis, statistics, data analysis software, and computer programming/software design. Conditions of Employment
Must be a U.S. citizen. Must be determined suitable for federal employment. Must participate in the direct deposit pay program. New employees to the Department of the Navy must pass the E‑Verify employment verification check; see e‑verify.gov for details. Within the DoD, appointment of retired military members within 180 days after retirement is subject to 5 U.S.C. § 3326. Male applicants born after 12‑31‑59 must register for Selective Service. This is a bargaining unit position. Must obtain and maintain an interim and/or final Top Secret/SCI security clearance prior to duty; failure may result in withdrawal of offer. MSP/PPP applicants currently hold required security clearance. Successful completion of a pre‑employment drug test (including marijuana) is required; failure results in rescission of offer. May require travel to CONUS/OCONUS and remote or isolated sites; must be able to travel on military and commercial aircraft for extended periods. Must obtain and maintain a U.S. passport. Occasional evening/weekend work is required. Qualifications
In addition to the
BASIC EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS
to qualify for a
GS‑12 , your resume must also demonstrate at least one year of specialized experience at or equivalent to the
GS‑11
grade level or pay band in the Federal service or equivalent experience in the private or public sector. Specialized experience must demonstrate the following: Experience applying technical knowledge in celestial mechanics, orbit determination, geodesy, geophysics, time‑series analysis, statistics, data analysis software, and computer programming/software design. Experience analyzing GPS or GNSS signals or processing outputs. Experience utilizing software that estimates GPS and GNSS satellite orbits, receiver‑and‑satellite‑clock corrections, positions of the Earth’s rotation pole, UT1 values, and other related quantities from GPS or GNSS measurements. Experience utilizing high‑level computer languages such as FORTRAN, C, C++, and Python; must be capable of using Linux computer systems with minimum delay. Experience documenting technical notes, preparing scientific papers, and presenting research results at scientific meetings. In addition to the
BASIC EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS
to qualify for a
GS‑11 , your resume must also demonstrate at least one year of specialized experience at or equivalent to the
GS‑09
grade level or pay band in the Federal service or equivalent experience in the private or public sector. Specialized experience must demonstrate the following: Experience applying technical knowledge in celestial mechanics, orbit determination, geodesy, geophysics, time‑series analysis, statistics, data analysis software, and computer programming/software design. Experience estimating satellite orbits, receiver‑and‑satellite‑clock corrections, positions of the Earth’s rotation pole, UT1 values, or other related quantities from GPS or GNSS measurements. Experience utilizing high‑level computer languages such as FORTRAN, C, C++, and Python; must be capable of using Linux computer systems with minimum delay. Experience documenting technical notes, preparing scientific papers, and presenting research results at scientific meetings. Additional qualification information can be found from the Office of Personnel Management website:
https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/1300/astronomy-and-space-science-series-1330/ Education
BASIC EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS: Degree in one or a combination of astronomy, physics, mathematics, space science, or electronics; coursework must include differential and integral calculus and 12 semester hours in astronomy and/or physics. OR Combination of education and experience: at least 30 semester hours of courses equivalent to a major in physics, astronomy, mathematics or electronics, with required coursework as above, plus appropriate experience or additional education. SUBSTITUTION OF EDUCATION FOR EXPERIENCE:
In addition to the basic education requirements, applicants may substitute the following education for the required experience, provided it demonstrates the necessary knowledge, skills and abilities: GS‑12:
No education substitution for this series/grade combination. GS‑11:
Successful completion of 3 years of progressively higher level graduate education leading to a Ph.D. degree or equivalent doctoral degree. COMBINATION OF EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:
Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be combined to meet the total qualification requirements. Applicants using education to meet all or part of the requirement must submit transcripts or itemized list of courses in the resume. IF CLAIMING EDUCATION, FAILURE TO SUBMIT TRANSCRIPTS/ITEMIZED LIST WILL RESULT IN AN INELIGIBLE RATING.
See OPM’s General Policies for crediting education. Foreign education may be used if documentation shows comparability to a U.S. accredited institution. Additional Information
This announcement uses the Certain Personnel of the DoD direct hire authority to recruit and appoint qualified candidates to positions in the competitive service. This position is covered by the Department of Defense Priority Placement Program. Occasional CONUS and OCONUS travel ( Lifting and moving approximately 30 pounds may be required to work on astronomical instrumentation and computer equipment. A Security+ training certification is required for Systems Operations duties. Vacancies may be filled at any grade level listed. Promotion is non‑ guaranteed and requires meeting all regulatory requirements. Benefits
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.
Learn more about federal benefits. How to Apply
Interested Applicants must submit resumes/application packages to: NAVOBSY_NOBS_N1-DL@navy.mil Facsimile applications will not be considered. All resumes/applications must be received no later than the close date of this flyer. Resumes are restricted to no more than 2 pages. Illegible/unreadable resumes will not be considered. Applicants must verify that all information is received, legible, and accurate. HR will not modify submitted documents. Failure to submit a complete application package will result in an ineligible rating and loss of consideration. Agency Contact Information
LaTonya Mitchell Phone: 202‑762‑0592 Email: latonya.r.mitchell.civ@us.navy.mil Address: NAVOBSERV, 3450 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20392‑5420, US Next Steps
Qualified applicants will be referred to the hiring manager. The selecting official may conduct interviews. Our evaluation will be based on the information you provide. You should expect performance, suitability, and security information to be verified and taken into account in making employment offers. Fair and Transparent
The Federal hiring process is set up to be fair and transparent. Guidance topics include: Criminal history inquiries Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Policy Financial suitability New employee probationary period Privacy Act Reasonable accommodation policy Selective Service Signature and false statements Social security number request
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Open & Closing Dates: 11/04/2025 to 11/13/2025 Salary: $84,601 to $131,826 per year Pay Scale & Grade: GS 11–12 Location: Washington, DC (1 vacancy) Remote job: No Telework eligible: Yes—ad‑hoc/situational telework at discretion of management Travel required: Occasional travel – up to 10% Relocation expenses reimbursed: Yes—under 5 USC 5753, subject to discretion of management Appointment type: Permanent Work schedule: Full‑time Service: Competitive, Promotion potential 12 Salary Series: 1330 Astronomy and Space Science Security clearance: Top Secret Drug test: Yes Position sensitivity and risk: Special‑Sensitive (SS)/High Risk; Trust determination process includes national security Financial disclosure: No Bargaining unit status: Yes – bargaining unit position Announcement number: DE-12828536-26-MLV Control number: 849292600 Duties
Serve as an Astronomer in the Earth Orientation Department, GPS Analysis Division of the U.S. NAVAL OBSERVATORY. Participate in GPS and GNSS analysis activities such as estimating satellite orbits, receiver‑and‑satellite‑clock corrections, positions of the Earth’s rotation pole, UT1 values, and other related quantities from GPS and GNSS measurements. Perform daily determination of earth orientation parameters using state‑of‑the‑art methods in software analysis, including daily monitoring activities. Design, code, test, and implement required computer programs, and evaluate/update existing programs. Validate that existing algorithms and inputs currently in use at USNO produce accurate estimates with a focus on GNSS estimates. Write and present scientific/technical material to audiences and standard operating procedures. Develop and maintain knowledge in celestial mechanics, orbit determination, geodesy, geophysics, time‑series analysis, statistics, data analysis software, and computer programming/software design. Conditions of Employment
Must be a U.S. citizen. Must be determined suitable for federal employment. Must participate in the direct deposit pay program. New employees to the Department of the Navy must pass the E‑Verify employment verification check; see e‑verify.gov for details. Within the DoD, appointment of retired military members within 180 days after retirement is subject to 5 U.S.C. § 3326. Male applicants born after 12‑31‑59 must register for Selective Service. This is a bargaining unit position. Must obtain and maintain an interim and/or final Top Secret/SCI security clearance prior to duty; failure may result in withdrawal of offer. MSP/PPP applicants currently hold required security clearance. Successful completion of a pre‑employment drug test (including marijuana) is required; failure results in rescission of offer. May require travel to CONUS/OCONUS and remote or isolated sites; must be able to travel on military and commercial aircraft for extended periods. Must obtain and maintain a U.S. passport. Occasional evening/weekend work is required. Qualifications
In addition to the
BASIC EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS
to qualify for a
GS‑12 , your resume must also demonstrate at least one year of specialized experience at or equivalent to the
GS‑11
grade level or pay band in the Federal service or equivalent experience in the private or public sector. Specialized experience must demonstrate the following: Experience applying technical knowledge in celestial mechanics, orbit determination, geodesy, geophysics, time‑series analysis, statistics, data analysis software, and computer programming/software design. Experience analyzing GPS or GNSS signals or processing outputs. Experience utilizing software that estimates GPS and GNSS satellite orbits, receiver‑and‑satellite‑clock corrections, positions of the Earth’s rotation pole, UT1 values, and other related quantities from GPS or GNSS measurements. Experience utilizing high‑level computer languages such as FORTRAN, C, C++, and Python; must be capable of using Linux computer systems with minimum delay. Experience documenting technical notes, preparing scientific papers, and presenting research results at scientific meetings. In addition to the
BASIC EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS
to qualify for a
GS‑11 , your resume must also demonstrate at least one year of specialized experience at or equivalent to the
GS‑09
grade level or pay band in the Federal service or equivalent experience in the private or public sector. Specialized experience must demonstrate the following: Experience applying technical knowledge in celestial mechanics, orbit determination, geodesy, geophysics, time‑series analysis, statistics, data analysis software, and computer programming/software design. Experience estimating satellite orbits, receiver‑and‑satellite‑clock corrections, positions of the Earth’s rotation pole, UT1 values, or other related quantities from GPS or GNSS measurements. Experience utilizing high‑level computer languages such as FORTRAN, C, C++, and Python; must be capable of using Linux computer systems with minimum delay. Experience documenting technical notes, preparing scientific papers, and presenting research results at scientific meetings. Additional qualification information can be found from the Office of Personnel Management website:
https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/1300/astronomy-and-space-science-series-1330/ Education
BASIC EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS: Degree in one or a combination of astronomy, physics, mathematics, space science, or electronics; coursework must include differential and integral calculus and 12 semester hours in astronomy and/or physics. OR Combination of education and experience: at least 30 semester hours of courses equivalent to a major in physics, astronomy, mathematics or electronics, with required coursework as above, plus appropriate experience or additional education. SUBSTITUTION OF EDUCATION FOR EXPERIENCE:
In addition to the basic education requirements, applicants may substitute the following education for the required experience, provided it demonstrates the necessary knowledge, skills and abilities: GS‑12:
No education substitution for this series/grade combination. GS‑11:
Successful completion of 3 years of progressively higher level graduate education leading to a Ph.D. degree or equivalent doctoral degree. COMBINATION OF EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:
Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be combined to meet the total qualification requirements. Applicants using education to meet all or part of the requirement must submit transcripts or itemized list of courses in the resume. IF CLAIMING EDUCATION, FAILURE TO SUBMIT TRANSCRIPTS/ITEMIZED LIST WILL RESULT IN AN INELIGIBLE RATING.
See OPM’s General Policies for crediting education. Foreign education may be used if documentation shows comparability to a U.S. accredited institution. Additional Information
This announcement uses the Certain Personnel of the DoD direct hire authority to recruit and appoint qualified candidates to positions in the competitive service. This position is covered by the Department of Defense Priority Placement Program. Occasional CONUS and OCONUS travel ( Lifting and moving approximately 30 pounds may be required to work on astronomical instrumentation and computer equipment. A Security+ training certification is required for Systems Operations duties. Vacancies may be filled at any grade level listed. Promotion is non‑ guaranteed and requires meeting all regulatory requirements. Benefits
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.
Learn more about federal benefits. How to Apply
Interested Applicants must submit resumes/application packages to: NAVOBSY_NOBS_N1-DL@navy.mil Facsimile applications will not be considered. All resumes/applications must be received no later than the close date of this flyer. Resumes are restricted to no more than 2 pages. Illegible/unreadable resumes will not be considered. Applicants must verify that all information is received, legible, and accurate. HR will not modify submitted documents. Failure to submit a complete application package will result in an ineligible rating and loss of consideration. Agency Contact Information
LaTonya Mitchell Phone: 202‑762‑0592 Email: latonya.r.mitchell.civ@us.navy.mil Address: NAVOBSERV, 3450 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20392‑5420, US Next Steps
Qualified applicants will be referred to the hiring manager. The selecting official may conduct interviews. Our evaluation will be based on the information you provide. You should expect performance, suitability, and security information to be verified and taken into account in making employment offers. Fair and Transparent
The Federal hiring process is set up to be fair and transparent. Guidance topics include: Criminal history inquiries Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Policy Financial suitability New employee probationary period Privacy Act Reasonable accommodation policy Selective Service Signature and false statements Social security number request
#J-18808-Ljbffr