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National Science Foundation Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Auditor

Alexandria, VA ยท On-site +1

$57K - $158K/yr

S. National Science Foundation. Learn more about this agency Duties Help As an auditor, you will be responsible for the following: * Review applicable laws, regulations, and policies to determine ...

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National Science Foundation information

See Virginia salary details

$24.3K

$48K

$78.3K

How much do national science foundation jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for national science foundation in Virginia is $47,976.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,200.00 and $51,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the National Science Foundation?

The National Science Foundation (NSF) is an independent federal agency of the United States government that supports fundamental research and education in all non-medical fields of science and engineering. Established in 1950, the NSF provides grants, funding, and resources to universities, researchers, and educational institutions to advance scientific discovery and innovation. Its mission is to promote the progress of science, secure the national defense, and advance the nation's health, prosperity, and welfare.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a National Science Foundation program officer?

To thrive as a National Science Foundation Program Officer, you need an advanced degree in a relevant scientific field, strong research experience, and expertise in grant management. Familiarity with grant administration systems, peer review processes, and NSF policies is typically required. Excellent communication, strategic thinking, and collaboration skills help you interact effectively with researchers and stakeholders. These skills are essential for ensuring fair, impactful funding decisions that advance scientific research and innovation.

What types of collaborative projects might I participate in as an employee at the National Science Foundation?

As an employee at the National Science Foundation (NSF), you will frequently collaborate on interdisciplinary projects that involve researchers, academic institutions, and government agencies across the country. The NSF emphasizes teamwork, so you may work on grant reviews, policy development, or program management with colleagues from various scientific backgrounds. These collaborative efforts are essential for advancing scientific innovation and ensuring that funded projects align with national research priorities. Expect regular meetings, joint decision-making, and opportunities to contribute your expertise to shape major scientific initiatives.

What is the difference between National Science Foundation vs Research Scientist?

AspectNational Science FoundationResearch Scientist
Primary RoleFunding agency supporting scientific research and educationConducts scientific research in various fields
CredentialsGovernment agency; no specific credentials requiredTypically requires advanced degrees (PhD) in relevant fields
Work EnvironmentGovernment offices, grant review panels, conferencesLaboratories, universities, research institutions
Employer/Industry UsageFederal government, academia, research institutionsUniversities, research labs, private sector

The National Science Foundation is a government agency that funds and supports scientific research, whereas a Research Scientist actively conducts research within academic or industry settings. While the NSF influences research directions through funding, Research Scientists are the professionals executing scientific studies. Both roles are integral to advancing science but differ in responsibilities and work environments.

What are popular job titles related to National Science Foundation jobs in Virginia?

For National Science Foundation jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching National Science Foundation jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for National Science Foundation jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for National Science Foundation jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most National Science Foundation job openings:

Infographic showing various National Science Foundation job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 26% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,976 per year, or $23.1 per hour.

Attorney Advisor (Assistant General Counsel - Procurement Law)

National Science Foundation

Alexandria, VA โ€ข On-site, Remote

$169K - $202K/yr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

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Job description

Summary
The U.S. National Science Foundation is seeking qualified candidates for an Attorney Advisor (Assistant General Counsel) position specializing in federal procurement and contract law within the Office of the General Counsel (OGC), Office of the Director (OD), Alexandria, VA.
For more information on OGC please click here.
For more information on OD please click here.
Learn more about this agency
Duties
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This position is located in the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF), Office of the General Counsel (OGC). NSF supports fundamental research and education across all fields of science and engineering and is committed to advancing the progress of science to benefit the Nation.
The incumbent serves as an Attorney Advisor providing legal counsel on a wide range of general law matters, with an emphasis on federal procurement and contract law. The Attorney Advisor works closely with program offices, leadership, and administrative staff to support NSF's mission through the delivery of timely, practical, and legally sound advice.
The position advises on acquisitions and contract administration, including bid protests and contractor disputes.
In addition, the Attorney Advisor provides legal guidance on the acquisition, management, and disposal of federal property and represents NSF in negotiations, interagency and executive branch working groups, and administrative proceedings. The incumbent conducts legal research and prepares written opinions and other work products to inform decision-making and mitigate legal risk.
This position requires the ability to analyze complex legal issues, balance legal and programmatic considerations, and collaborate effectively across a diverse, mission-driven organization dedicated to scientific discovery and innovation.
Major Duties
  • Provides legal advice on federal procurement and contract law, including acquisitions, contract administration, bid protests, and contractor disputes.
  • Provides legal guidance on the acquisition, management, and disposal of federal property, ensuring compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
  • Represents the agency in negotiations, interagency working groups, and administrative proceedings, and supports litigation as needed.
  • Conducts legal research and prepares memoranda, opinions, and other written products to support agency programs and leadership decision-making.
  • Collaborates with program offices and leadership to identify legal risks and develop practical, legally sound solutions aligned with mission priorities.

Requirements
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Conditions of employment
  1. Selectee will be required to have a background investigation prior to onboarding.
  2. Selectee may be required to serve a 2-year trial period.

This position is outside the competitive civil service.
This announcement is open to all U.S. Citizens who meet citizenship and eligibility requirements. In order to be considered for federal appointments, Non-Citizens must affirm that they meet the Appropriations Law eligibility criteria by signing and attaching this Citizenship Affidavit to their application.
You must meet eligibility and qualification requirements by the closing date of the announcement.
All online applicants must provide a valid email address. If your email address is inaccurate or your mailbox is full/blocked, you may not receive important communication that could affect your consideration for this position.
It is NSF policy that personnel employed at, or Intergovernmental Personnel Act (IPA) individuals detailed to, NSF are not permitted to participate in foreign talent recruitment programs. Failure to comply with this NSF policy could result in disciplinary action up to and including removal from Federal Service or termination of an IPA assignment and referral to the Office of Inspector General.
NSF has determined that all of its positions are eligible for situational telework. Situational telework may be approved on an occasional basis in accordance with agency policy, supervisory approval, and operational requirements. Selected candidates interested in telework, or other workplace flexibility arrangements, should discuss available options with the selecting official. Participation in telework is voluntary and requires an approved telework agreement.
Qualifications
Candidates must have a J.D. from a school of law accredited by the American Bar Association (ABA), plus 6 or more years of professional legal experience gained after completion of the pertinent degree.
Candidates must have expertise related to the areas of law relevant to the position for which they wish to be considered, as articulated in the Duties and Experience section above.
Bar Membership: Member in good standing of the bar of a State, territory of the United States, District of Columbia, or Commonwealth of Puerto Rico (must provide supporting documentation).
Also, desirable, but not required, is experience and/or interest in other areas of Federal government legal practice, such as intellectual property, regulatory compliance, general litigation, and/or environmental law.
Education
Please refer to the Qualifications section.
If your degree was obtained from a foreign institution, please also submit the certification from the Association for International Credential Evaluation Professionals, or certification equivalency.
Additional information
Relocation expenses WILL NOT be paid.
This announcement may be used to fill like positions in other organizations within the U.S. National Science Foundation.
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Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
Benefits
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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. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.