Physical Scientist/Mechanical Engineer

This position is with Department of Labor, Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA), Technical Support, Mechanical and Engineering Safety Division (M&ESD). MSHA works to prevent death, illness and injury from mining; promote safe and healthful workplaces for U.S. miners. MSHA carries out the provisions of the Federal Mine Safety and Health Act of 1977 (Mine Act) as amended by the Mine Improvement and New Emergency Response (MINER) Act of 2006. The responsibilities described apply to both the Physical Scientist and Mechanical Engineer position titles. Formulates and conducts complex investigations regarding issues on blasting safety and specialized projects related to mine and materials safety. Assists the Division's senior engineers in providing technical assistance to MSHA enforcement regarding regulatory questions and the investigation of accidents involving explosives. Evaluates data, prepares reports of findings, and makes recommendations upon completion of studies. Provides consultation and advice to MSHA officials and field personnel and other interested parties and customers concerning explosive properties, physical principles and behavioral characteristics associated with the function and use of various blasting methods and explosive systems. Provides evaluation of various approaches to the solution of problems and reviews technical data regarding issues and projects that involve explosives, blasting and safety concerns. Plans, organizes, and initiates work assignments to provide technical support for the safe use of explosives and related items in the mining industry. Responsible for technical assistance, accident investigations, and field evaluations with respect to blasting operations, explosive technology and mining related safety practices. Serves as a technical expert to explosives manufacturers and developers of blasting equipment to identify and solve complex technical problems related to health and safety features to minimize or eliminate potential in-service hazards. Provides independent review and analysis of technical data and approaches to the solution of issues and problems regarding blasting safety and investigations of materials involved in incidents or mine accidents.