Applied Research Mathematician / Mathematical Statistician - Entry to Experienced Level (Maryland)

NSA is actively searching for mathematicians and mathematical statisticians like you to join a vibrant community of mathematicians, statisticians, physicists, computer scientists, data scientists, and other intelligence professionals. Newly-hired mathematicians and mathematical statisticians begin their careers in the Mathematics Development Program (MDP). The goal of the three-year MDP is to provide on-the-job training in the broad range of mathematical and statistical sciences at NSA.

Major Duties

At NSA, mathematics and statistics are core disciplines present in every aspect of our mission: to protect our Nation. The mission requires a strong offense and a steadfast defense. The offense collects, processes, and disseminates intelligence information derived from foreign signals for intelligence and counterintelligence purposes. The defense prevents adversaries from gaining access to sensitive classified national security information. Mathematicians and Mathematical Statisticians contribute across our mission by bringing both subject matter expertise and creative, critical thinking. A wide range of technical expertise finds a natural fit at NSA including, but not limited to, fields of algebra, combinatorics, Fourier analysis, operations research, graph analytics, regression, machine learning, exploratory data analysis, stochastic processes, statistical modeling, forecasting, and cryptography. NSA solves its hardest problems and develops innovative solutions by bringing together people with a wide range of mathematical backgrounds, skills, and viewpoints, which is key for NSA mission success. The Agency supports a dynamic mathematics community with substantial opportunities to learn and experiment in areas far from academic training. Additionally, professional development is supported by hands-on training, seminar series, conference travel, and professional organizations. These opportunities and core mission needs help make NSA the largest employer of mathematicians and mathematical statisticians in the country. Newly-hired mathematicians and mathematical statisticians begin their careers in the Mathematics Development Program (MDP). The goal of the three-year MDP is to provide on-the-job training in the broad range of mathematical and statistical sciences at NSA. This is primarily accomplished through 6-month tours in NSA offices of the MDP participant's choosing. Mentorship is provided for each tour and participants work on real mission problems. MDP members also study cryptologic mathematics, statistical data mining, and related subjects in courses taught by Agency experts. Participants are required to develop skills in programming and using computational resources to solve mission problems. Various short-term and long-term travel opportunities exist for interested participants but are not required. NOTE: Please submit your application, including transcripts, through apply.intelligencecareers.gov. In addition, you should also send a soft copy PDF of your resume/CV, and all college transcripts (to include undergraduate, graduate, and transfer transcripts) to [email protected]. You may also include a cover letter (optional). Please note that we also require two letters of recommendation. Letters should preferably be sent directly to [email protected] from the writers by 29 October 2026. Letters of recommendation should be written by individuals who know you well as a mathematician or statistician. You may also choose to ask for additional letters from individuals who can attest to teaching abilities, general work ethic, or other professional traits. Letters should be written by individuals in positions of authority, rather than by peers. However, if you are a tenured professor or an established professional not working in academia, letters from your peers could be accepted. We prefer letters be written on university/company letterhead, but if this is not possible, please ensure your writers identify what school they are from and how they know you.

Qualifications

The qualifications listed are the minimum acceptable to be considered for the position. ENTRY/DEVELOPMENTAL Entry is with a Bachelor's degree and no experience. FULL PERFORMANCE Entry is with a Bachelor's degree plus 3 years of relevant experience or a Master's degree plus 1 year of relevant experience, or a Doctoral degree and no experience. Relevant experience must be in one or more of the following: the design, development, use, and evaluation of mathematics models, methods, or techniques (for example, algorithm development) to study issues and solve problems. Experience may also include, network engineering, computer science, physics, software engineering, electrical engineering. SENIOR Entry is with a Bachelor's degree plus 6 years of relevant experience, or a Master's degree plus 4 years of relevant experience, or a Doctoral degree plus 2 years of relevant experience. Relevant experience must be in one or more of the following: the design, development, use, and evaluation of mathematics models, methods, or techniques (for example, algorithm development) to study issues and solve problems. Experience may also include, network engineering, computer science, physics, software engineering, electrical engineering. Leadership experience can count for up to half the experience requirement.

Education

Degree must be in Mathematics, Physics, Engineering, Data Science, Computer Science, Statistics, or a related STEM field. Degree must include at least 24 semester credit hours (or 36 credit hours from universities on a quarter system) in advanced mathematics courses

Promotion Potential

GG-None

How You Will Be Evaluated

Candidates must possess: - Strong problem-solving and analytical skills - Desire for continual learning - Ability to work effectively both independently and as a member of a team Knowledge and experience in one or more of the following areas is desired but not required. Successful applicants may learn these skills at the Agency. - Programming expertise in any language - Experience in the design, development, use, and evaluation of mathematical models, methods and/or techniques (e.g., algorithm development) NOTE: Please submit your application, including transcripts, through apply.intelligencecareers.gov. In addition, you should also send a soft copy PDF of your resume/CV, and all college transcripts (to include undergraduate, graduate, and transfer transcripts) to [email protected]. You may also include a cover letter (optional).

Who Can Apply

• Current federal employees — excepted service
• Military spouses
• Open to the public
• Veterans

Required Documents

The National Security Agency (NSA) is part of the DoD Intelligence Community Defense Civilian Intelligence Personnel System (DCIPS). All positions in the NSA are in the Excepted Services under 10 United States Codes (USC) 1601 appointment authority. DoD Components with DCIPS positions apply Veterans' Preference to eligible candidates as defined by Section 2108 of Title 5 USC, in accordance with the procedures provided in DoD Instruction 1400.25, Volume 2005, DCIPS Employment and Placement. If you are a veteran claiming veterans' preference, as defined by Section 2108 of Title 5 U.S.C., you may be asked to submit documents verifying your eligibility.

How to Apply

https://apply.intelligencecareers.gov/job-description/1262674

What to Expect Next

https://apply.intelligencecareers.gov/job-description/1262674

Other Information

Pay: Salary offers are based on candidates' education level and years of experience relevant to the position and also take into account information provided by the hiring manager/organization regarding the work level for the position. Salary Range: $87,362 - $172,578 (Entry/Developmental, Full Performance, Senior) Salary range varies by location, work level, and relevant experience to the position. Training will be provided based on the selectee's needs and experience. Benefits: NSA offers a comprehensive benefits package. Work Schedule: This is a full-time position, Monday - Friday, with basic 8hr/day work requirement between 6:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. (flexible).