Research Structural Engineer

$117,962 - $181,216/Yr

Department Of Commerce - Gaithersburg, MD

Part-time,Full-time - Mid Level

Onsite - Gaithersburg, MD

Executive, Legislative, and Other General Government Support

About the position

The Earthquake Engineering Group at NIST is seeking a qualified candidate to lead innovative research in earthquake and structural engineering. The role focuses on developing advanced frameworks for assessing risks to structural and infrastructural systems under various hazards, enhancing public safety and community resilience. The position involves conducting studies on material aging, applying AI techniques for performance assessments, and disseminating research findings to influence policies and best practices in the field.

Responsibilities

• Conduct investigations into the long-term performance of infrastructure materials, identifying vulnerabilities and interactions caused by environmental changes.
• Develop and apply advanced AI and machine learning techniques for multi-hazard performance assessments.
• Design innovative approaches to measure and address uncertainty impacts on structural performance.
• Develop and validate predictive models for assessing the remaining life and safety margins of structural systems.
• Lead the development of computational methods to evaluate material deterioration impacts on seismic performance.
• Disseminate research findings through publications and engagements with relevant communities and organizations.
• Guide and participate in post-disaster investigations and field reconnaissance missions.
• Represent NIST at conferences and workshops, providing technical leadership in earthquake engineering.

Requirements

• U.S. citizenship is required.
• A bachelor's degree in engineering from an ABET-accredited program or equivalent education and experience.
• 52 weeks of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-12 level in federal service, including research and numerical analyses related to structural performance and risk assessment.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience with machine learning applications in engineering.
• Familiarity with multi-hazard risk assessment methodologies.
• Knowledge of infrastructure resilience strategies.

Benefits

• Telework options available as determined by agency policy.
• Flexible work schedules.
• Paid parental leave.
• Paid vacation and sick leave.
• Childcare subsidy program for qualifying families.
• On-site childcare center and lactation spaces.
• Wellness programs and fitness center access.