Agricultural Science Research Technician

U.S. Department of Agriculture; Ames (IA); On-site; USD 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Agricultural Research Service in Ames, Iowa invites applications for a position supporting laboratory, field, and greenhouse experiments. You will collect and prepare samples, maintain equipment, and record and analyze data to advance plant intro research.

The job involves handling biological materials, maintaining inventories, and adapting methods to project needs while ensuring data integrity and safety protocols.

Qualifications

Responsibilities

• Collects, prepares, evaluates biological samples and records.
• Maintains inventory of chemicals, stock solutions, media, etc.
• Applies biology knowledge to plan and execute projects.
• Maintains records and analyzes data using databases and software.

Job description

Summary

This position is in the Agricultural Research Service (ARS), Field Organization, Midwest Area, Plant Introduction Research Unit located in Ames, IA. In this position, you will support research by carrying out laboratory, field, and greenhouse experiments, collecting and preparing samples, maintaining scientific equipment, and recording and analyzing experimental data.

Major Duties

Collects, prepares, evaluates, and verifies biological samples and supporting records. Maintains inventory of chemicals, stock solutions, plant growth media, etc., prepares solutions and reagents for use in the laboratory, field, or greenhouse, and safely disposes of waste material (chemical and biological). Applies extensive practical knowledge of biological science (plant pathology, plant physiology, entomology, biochemistry, microbiology, genetics) to lay out, schedule, organize, and execute details of operational or multiphased projects. Actively participates in one or more phases of the research process by performing a variety of complex technical duties in laboratory, field, or greenhouse environments. Adapts, modifies, or develops new techniques and/or procedures to satisfy the needs of the research project. Maintains records, locates and compiles data and other information from various sources using databases such as MS Access or other SQL database and recognizes abnormal or unexpected results. Performs the full range of techniques and studies using a variety of specialized equipment including tractors, cultivators, sprayers, and controlled pollination structures. Maintains, calibrates, and modifies complex/specialized equipment and automated systems used for test and evaluation procedures. Independently initiates action to resolve or correct technical difficulties and results, or recommends solutions to supervisor. Tabulates, statistically analyzes, and summarizes data using personal computers, tablets, and software packages. Applies knowledge of instrumentation to modify prescribed procedures to accommodate existing sampling and analytical conditions; operates complex equipment requiring calibration/synchronization.

Education

Please see above for education qualification requirement information.

Requirements

You must be a US Citizen or US National. Males born after 12/31/1959 must be Selective Service registered or exempt. Subject to satisfactory adjudication of background investigation and/or fingerprint check. Direct Deposit - Per Public Law 104-134 all Federal employees are required to have federal payments made by direct deposit to their financial institution. Successfully pass the E-Verify employment verification check. To learn more about E-Verify, including your rights and responsibilities, visit https://www.e-verify.gov/. As a condition of employment for accepting this position, you will be required to serve a 1-year probationary period unless previous federal service is creditable. During this time your employment will be evaluated, and we may consider: your performance and conduct, the needs and interests of the agency, whether your continued employment would advance organizational goals of the agency or the Government, and whether your continued employment would advance the efficiency of the Federal service. Upon completion of your probationary period your employment will be terminated unless you receive certification, in writing, that your continued employment advances the public interest. Physical Demands: The work requires some physical exertion, such as regular and recurring walking or bending. In many situations the duration of the activity (such as most of a work day) contributes to the arduous nature of the job. In other situations, there may be special requirements for agility or dexterity such as exceptional hand/eye coordination. Work Environment: The work involves regular and recurring moderate risks or discomforts which require special safety precautions, e.g., working with contagious diseases or irritant chemicals or working outdoors. The employee is required to use protective clothing such as gowns, coats, boots, goggles, gloves.

Evaluations

Applications will be evaluated in accordance with Office of Personnel Management's (OPM) Delegated Examining Procedures and USDA policy. This means you will be evaluated based on how well you meet the qualifications listed in this vacancy announcement. Your qualifications will be evaluated based on your application materials (e.g., resume, supporting documents), your responses to the application questionnaire, and your responses to all assessments required for this position. You will be assessed on the following competencies (knowledge, skills, abilities, and other characteristics): Attention to Detail Flexibility Integrity/Honesty Interpersonal Skills Learning Reading Comprehension Self-Management Teamwork Overstating your qualifications and/or experience in your application materials or application questionnaire may result in your removal from consideration. Cheating on an assessment may also result in your removal from consideration.

Other Information

Other Considerations: USDA-ARS scientists work on a wide range of agricultural issues. The agency's research aims to find practical solutions to agricultural problems, often translating scientific findings into tools and technologies that can be used by farmers, ranchers, and food producers. The National Farm Security Action Plan elevates American agriculture as a key element of our nation's national security. This position supports and/or assists the research that is being conducted by USDA-ARS scientists and is considered to be sensitive as the duties require protection of private, controlled unclassified, or proprietary information with a moderate impact degree. Career Transition Assistance Plan (CTAP), Reemployment Priority List (RPL), or Interagency Career Transition Assistance Plan (ICTAP): Visit the OPM website for information on how to apply as a CTAP, RPL, or ICTAP eligible. To exercise selection priority for this vacancy, CTAP/RPL/ICTAP candidates must meet the basic eligibility requirements and all selective factors. CTAP/ICTAP candidates must be rated and determined to be well qualified (or above) based on an evaluation of the competencies listed in the How You Will Be Evaluated section. When assessed through a score-based category rating method, CTAP/ICTAP applicants must receive a rating of at least 85 out of a possible 100. Relocation/Recruitment Incentive may be approved depending on Hiring Officials determination. This position may also be eligible for flexible work arrangements as determined by agency policy and any applicable collective bargaining agreements.