Entry Level Physical Scientist

Signature Science, LLC; Egg Harbor Township (NJ); On-site; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Signature Science, LLC is seeking a skilled sample preparation and data-collection specialist to support the Transportation Security Laboratory (TSL). You will work with physics and X-ray based instrumentation to generate high-quality data for research and validation.

Responsibilities include preparing test samples, operating EDS and analytical instrumentation, developing data-analysis code (MATLAB, Python, R), and composing technical reports.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a core science and up to five years of relevant experience.
• Ability to obtain Secret clearance and DHS suitability.

Responsibilities

• Performs material characterization (e.g. microscope imaging, density measurements, rheological and mechanical properties).
• Prepares test samples for analyses.
• Operates explosive detection systems (EDS) and analytical physics instrumentation for data collection.
• Performs troubleshooting, maintenance, and method development on EDS and analytical instrumentation.
• Safely handles explosive and other hazardous materials.
• Assembles test articles per test specifications.
• Develops and uses code (MATLAB, Python, R) for data analysis.
• Analyses, compiles, and reports data collection results for research and development and quality control testing events.
• Composes and reviews technical reports and standard operating procedures.
• Composes, reviews, and executes test plans.
• Performs literature reviews.
• Other duties as assigned.

Skills

Communication skills

Verbal communication

Written communication

Analytical skills

Data analysis

Education

Bachelor's degree in chemistry, engineering, or physics

Tools

MATLAB

Python

R

Microsoft Office

Job description

Position Purpose

The primary purpose of this position is to prepare samples and perform data collection activities using physics and X-ray based instrumentation at the Transportation Security Laboratory (TSL).

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Performs material characterization (e.g. microscope imaging, density measurements, rheological and mechanical properties).
• Prepares test samples for analyses.
• Operates explosive detection systems (EDS) as well as analytical physics instrumentation (computed tomography, x‑ray fluorescence, x‑ray diffraction, etc.) for data collection.
• Performs troubleshooting, maintenance, and method development on EDS and analytical instrumentation.
• Safely handles explosive and other hazardous materials.
• Assembles test articles and bags per test specifications.
• Develops and uses code (MATLAB, Python, R) for data analysis.
• Analyzes, compiles, and reports data collection results for research and development and quality control testing events.
• Composes and reviews technical reports and standard operating procedures.
• Composes, reviews, and executes test plans.
• Performs literature reviews.
• Other duties as assigned.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Good interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills.
• Good listening skills.
• Good working knowledge of scientific and analytical techniques.
• Good working skills of software and tools necessary for job functions including Microsoft Office suite, MATLAB, Python.

Education/Experience

Incumbent should have a minimum of a bachelor's degree in chemistry, engineering, physics, or other core science and up to five years of experience.

Clearance

The ability to obtain a Secret clearance and Department of Homeland Security suitability is required for this position.

Supervisory Responsibilities

The incumbent professional has little to no supervisory responsibilities.

Working Conditions/Experience

The incumbent is expected to work and/or be available during regular business hours. He/she should also generally be available via e‑mail or phone during non‑business hours as needed to address critical issues or emergencies. He/she may be required to travel on behalf of the company up to 25%.

The above job description is not intended to be an all-inclusive list of duties and standards of the position. Incumbents will follow any other instructions and perform any other related duties, as assigned by their supervisor.