Materials Handler

US-Agricultural-Research-Servic; Manhattan (KS); On-site; USD 30,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

The United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, NBAF in Manhattan, KS seeks a Materials Handler responsible for proper receipt, storage, and preparation of equipment, supplies and related materials.

The position requires adherence to safety rules, the ability to lift and move items, and readiness to work in varied environments, including walk‑in coolers and laboratory freezers.

Qualifications

• Must demonstrate the ability to perform the duties of a Materials Handler with minimal supervision.
• Screen Out element applies; applicants meeting the screening criteria will be considered further.

Responsibilities

• Receive, store, and prepare submitted equipment, supplies and related materials.
• Work indoors and outdoors, including walk-in coolers and laboratory freezers (-20C, -70C) and handling heavy items.

Job description

This position is located at the United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility (NBAF) in Manhattan, KS.

The incumbent is responsible for performing duties and tasks related to the proper receipt, storage, and preparation of submitted equipment, supplies and related materials.In order to qualify for this position you must meet the following by the closing date of the vacancy announcement:

09/21/2026 Qualifications will be determined under the Job Element Rating System X-118C, Qualifications Standard Handbook. While a specific length of time and experience is not required for most Wage Grade positions, you must show through experience and training that you possess the best qualified level of knowledge and skill necessary to perform the duties of this position. Qualification requirements emphasize the quality of experience, not necessarily the length. The responses to the questionnaire and your resume should be in significant detail to provide the person rating your application with a good understanding of your ability to do the job, technical knowledge, work, and training experience, etc. (For example You must have the ability to perform the duties of a, Materials Handlerwithout more than normal supervision (Screen Out)). Applicants who do not meet the SCREEN OUT ELEMENT will not be given further consideration.

Working Conditions:

The incumbent works indoors in areas which normally have adequate heat, light, and ventilation, and outdoors subject to all kinds of climatic conditions. The incumbent routinely stores and accesses materials from walk-in coolers and laboratory freezers (eg. -20C, -70C). The incumbent is exposed to the possibility of cuts, scrapes, bruises, falling stock, etc.; and to dust, dirt, grease, solvents, and high noise levels. The incumbent is expected to have a strong awareness to comply with safety rules and regulations, and is also expected to wear appropriate safety equipment when necessary (protective clothing, safety glasses/goggles, laboratory scrubs, overalls, rubber boots, etc.) The incumbent operates motor vehicles during all types of traffic and weather conditions, including icy roads and reduced visibility. Defensive driving techniques are required in order to prevent accidents which could result in bodily injury and/or damage to equipment and supplies.

The health status of personnel is monitored periodically using biologic and serologic tests and physical examinations.

Restrictions against contact with birds and livestock outside the laboratory may apply after entering high security animal facilities that are working with disease agents foreign to the United States.

Physical Effort:

The incumbent performs work on hard surfaces and in work areas that require continuous walking, standing, stooping, bending, and working in tiring and uncomfortable positions. Moderately heavy physical effort is required in the loading, transporting, and unloading of diagnostic specimens, media, solutions, glassware, equipment and other supplies. Occasionally lifts items weighing more than 70 pounds (with proper support). Heavier items are moved with weight handling equipment or with assistance from other workers. Operates power equipment requiring eye, hand and arm coordination. Manual dexterity is required for operating the motor vehicles.