Physical Scientist

Bureau of Reclamation; Sacramento (CA); Remote; USD 83,000 - 108,000; Full time

Job summary

The Bureau of Reclamation in the California-Great Basin region seeks a Physical Scientist to support environmental studies and field investigations.

You will conduct sampling under EPA/USGS/Bureau protocols, evaluate data, and prepare reports and monitoring plans to support project objectives. Telework is available and collaboration with partner agencies is expected.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in physical science or closely related field.
• Experience with collecting groundwater, surface water, soil samples.
• Ability to interpret environmental data and prepare reports.

Responsibilities

• Plan and coordinate field sampling investigations.
• Ensure QA/QC and data quality through standard procedures.
• Develop monitoring plans and document project findings.
• Prepare program reports and status updates.

Skills

Field sampling

Data analysis

Report writing

Interagency coordination

Education

Bachelor's degree in physical science

Tools

GIS

Statistical software

Lab instruments

Job description

You will serve as a Physical Scientist with the Bureau of Reclamation, Division of Environmental Affairs supporting various scientific and professional environmental activities throughout the California-Great Basin.

Key Responsibilities

Some of the major duties you will perform include but are not limited to the following: Plans, coordinates and conducts technical activities for field sampling investigations in accordance with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), United States Geological Survey (USGS), and/or Bureau of Reclamation protocols to determine the extent of contamination in ground water, surface water, vegetation, soil, sediment, and air at specified areas.

Coordinates with other branch staff members on the collection and incorporation of appropriate field splits and other quality assurance/quality control measures described in program plans to ensure the quality of the data produced. Coordinates within agency as well as with external partners as needed to support the mission.

Evaluates and interprets the results of environmental studies to determine their validity and scientific significance; reports on findings to ensure effective program execution and demonstrate compliance with requirements of State or Federal Executive Orders. Develops recommendations to assist project and program managers with the design or update of comprehensive monitoring plans.

Prepares program and project-specific documentation and reports, correspondence, status reports, and general information regarding activities.

Requirements & Education

This position has a mandatory education requirement. You must submit a copy of your transcript(s) to support claimed education. Transcripts must include your name, school name, grades, credit hours earned, major(s), grade point average or class ranking, and date the degree was conferred, if applicable. A typed list of courses, grades, semester/quarter hours, GPA, etc. will not be accepted. Non-submission may result in being rated not qualified for the position.

Unofficial transcripts are acceptable, but if you are selected for this position and you used your education to qualify, you must provide official transcripts before you begin work.

Foreign Education: To receive credit for education completed outside the United States, you must show proof that the education has been submitted to a private organization that specializes in interpretation of foreign educational credentials and such education has been deemed at least equivalent to that gained in conventional U.S. education programs.

For more information on how foreign education is evaluated, visit: https://www.ed.gov/about/initiatives/international-affairs/recognition-of-foreign-qualifications

Which agency is hiring for this position?

This position is with Bureau of Reclamation, Department of the Interior.

What is the salary for this position?

The posted pay range is $82780 – $107620/yr.

Is this position remote or telework eligible?

This position is eligible for telework.

What is the application deadline?

Applications close on 2026-10-27.

Who is eligible to apply?

This position is open under the 'Fed Transition' hiring path.

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Source: USAJOBS.gov — U.S. Federal Government · Retrieved 2026-10-24 · Not affiliated with or endorsed by OPM or USAJOBS.gov