Agricultural Science Research Technician

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. 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. Applicants must meet all qualifications and eligibility requirements by the closing date of the announcement including specialized experience and/or education, as defined below. Specialized Experience GS-07: Specialized experience is experience directly related to the position to be filled. Specialized experience must be described for each grade level advertised. The specialized experience requirements for this position are: Qualifying experience for GS-07 includes one year of specialized experience comparable to GS-06 which is directly related to the work of this position and which has equipped the applicant with the knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform successfully the duties of the position. For this position, specialized experience is experience participating in a plant-science research project; collecting, preparing, or evaluating plant samples; and operating equipment typically used in field or greenhouse environments. OR Education: Successful completion of one full year of progressively higher-level graduate education leading to a master's or equivalent graduate degree, if directly related to the position. Related degrees may include: Biology, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Plant Pathology, Plant Science, Agronomy, Soil Science, Crop science, Agriculture, Horticulture, Genetics, Plant Breeding, Plant Physiology, Environmental Science, Entomology, Forestry, and Ecology. OR A combination of education and specialized experience as described above. Specialized Experience GS-08: Specialized experience is experience directly related to the position to be filled. Specialized experience must be described for each grade level advertised. The specialized experience requirements for this position are: Qualifying experience for GS-08 includes one year of specialized experience comparable to GS-07 which is directly related to the work of this position and which has equipped the applicant with the knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform successfully the duties of the position. For this position, specialized experience is experience participating in multiple phases of plant-science research; conducting statistical data analysis using research databases; and operating and maintaining specialized field and greenhouse equipment. OR Education: Successful completion of 2 full years of progressively higher level graduate education leading to a master's or equivalent graduate degree, if directly related. Related degrees may include: Biology, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Plant Pathology, Plant Science, Agronomy, Soil Science, Crop science, Agriculture, Horticulture, Genetics, Plant Breeding, Plant Physiology, Environmental Science, Entomology, Forestry, and Ecology. OR A combination of graduate level education and specialized experience as described above. Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. 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. Please see above for education qualification requirement information.