The position is located in the Reston Microbiology Laboratory within the USGS Geology, Energy, and Minerals Science Center in Reston, VA. The lab conducts critical science to meet the needs of the Nation, including environmental microbiology research aimed at understanding the role of microorganisms in contaminated and pristine ecosystems.
The lab carries out a diverse array of research including projects aimed at understanding (1) microbial degradation of hydrocarbons at crude oil spill sites; (2) biodegradation of PFAS compounds; and (3) ecological responses of microbes to impacts from oil and gas production. The lab uses methods from microbiology, molecular biology, and biogeochemistry, such as DNA-based sequencing and anaerobic and aerobic cultivation.
Some of the duties include:
PHYSICAL DEMANDS: The field work requires some physical exertion such as walking over wet, rough, uneven, or rocky surfaces; bending, crouching, stooping, stretching, reaching, or similar activities. Laboratory work requires moderate physical ability and agility and dexterity to manipulate samples and operate equipment.
WORK ENVIRONMENT: Work is performed in an office, laboratory, and/or in the field. The office is adequately lighted, heated, and ventilated. Temperature and weather extremes may be encountered in the performance of the outdoor work. Field and laboratory duties may require the use of special protective gear. The incumbent is expected to conduct duties in a safe and orderly manner so as not to endanger self, fellow workers, or property with which entrusted.
Key Requirements:
BASIC EDUCATION REQUIREMENT: Applicants must meet A or B below to satisfy the basic education requirement for Biologist, all grade levels.
A. Degree in biological sciences, agriculture, natural resource management, chemistry, or related disciplines appropriate to the position. *OR* B. Combination of education and experience-courses equivalent to a major, as shown in A above (24 semester hours or the equivalent in biological sciences, agriculture, natural resource management, chemistry, or related disciplines appropriate to the position), plus appropriate experience and/or additional education for a total of 4 years. The education or combined education and experience must be comparable in type, scope and thoroughness to that acquired through successful completion of a 4-year course of study as described in "A" above. (CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS ON HOW TO COMBINE EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE)
In addition to the basic education requirements as stated above, applicants must meet one of the following:
Possess 3 full years of progressively higher-level graduate education or a Ph. D. or equivalent doctoral degree in the biological sciences, agriculture, natural resource management, chemistry, or related disciplines.
**OR Possess one year of specialized experience at or equal to the next lower grade level. Examples of experience at the GS-09 level work may include: Experience participating in or conducting studies in the areas of microbial ecology, environmental microbiology, microbial biogeochemistry, and/or aquatic microbial ecology.
Specific knowledge, skills, and abilities include: Proficiency in DNA extractions and PCR assays for environmental samples (e.g., water, sediments, soils). - Experienced with bioinformatic and analyses pipelines (e.g., mothur and/or QIIME2; R) for 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing.
**OR Possess a combination of graduate level education as described in above, beyond the first two years of progressive graduate study, and appropriate professional experience that together meet the qualification requirements for this position.
Other Information:
Benefits
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.
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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.
You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.
-Basis of Rating: The Government-wide direct hire authority for Biological Science GS-0401 is being used to fill this position. All applicants who meet the eligibility requirements and minimum qualification requirements will be referred for consideration.
Benefits
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.
Review our 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.
Required Documents
As a new or existing federal employee, you and your family may have access to a range of benefits. Your benefits depend on the type of position you have - whether you're a permanent, part-time, temporary or an intermittent employee. You may be eligible for the following benefits, however, check with your agency to make sure you're eligible under their policies.
Education must be accredited by an accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education in order for it to be credited towards qualifications. Therefore, provide only the attendance and/or degrees from schools accredited by accrediting institutions recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
Failure to provide all of the required information as stated in this vacancy announcement may result in an ineligible rating or may affect the overall rating.
How to Apply
703-648-7468
salbino@usgs.gov
Fair and Transparent
The Federal hiring process is set up to be fair and transparent. Please read the following guidance.
Education must be accredited by an accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education in order for it to be credited towards qualifications. Therefore, provide only the attendance and/or degrees from schools accredited by accrediting institutions recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
Failure to provide all of the required information as stated in this vacancy announcement may result in an ineligible rating or may affect the overall rating.
Federal employees who meet the definition of a "surplus" or "displaced" employee.
U.S. Citizens, Nationals or those who owe allegiance to the U.S.
Open to all qualified U.S. Citizens.