Biological Science Laboratory Technician

Applicants must meet all qualifications and eligibility requirements by the closing date of the announcement, including specialized experience and/or education, as defined below. FOR THE GS-07 LEVEL: Applicants must have one year of specialized experience (equivalent to the GS-06 level) that may have been obtained in the private or public (local, county, state, Federal) sectors which demonstrates: Experience handling, sorting, and inventorying biological specimens collected in field surveys or as part of museum collections using microscopes and other laboratory equipment. Experience recording and maintaining files of molecular and specimen-related data using computer spreadsheets and databases, and ability to summarize findings. Experience preparing biological samples or specimens for molecular or microbial analysis by using sterile technique and DNA isolation methods. Experience in operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of laboratory equipment used for scientific investigations of biology such as microscopes, freezers, centrifuges, thermal cyclers, DNA sequencers, fume hoods, and sterilizers. Experience using mathematics to prepare stock solutions, follow recipes for experiments, or convert measurements used for scientific investigation. OR Successful completion of one full year (18 semester hours, 27 quarter hours or equivalent) of graduate level education in biology, plant pathology, entomology, or closely related fields. 18 semester hours should be considered as satisfying the 1 year of full-time study. Equivalent combinations of education and experience are qualifying for this grade level. TRANSCRIPTS are required if: You are qualifying for the position based on education. You are qualifying for this position based on a combination of experience and education. This education must have been successfully completed and obtained from an accredited school, college, or university. COMBINATION OF EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE AT THE GS-07 GRADE LEVEL: Applicants may have combinations of successfully completed education and specialized experience to meet total qualification requirements. The total percentages must equal at least 100 percent to qualify for that grade level. 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.
As a Biological Science Laboratory Technician with Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), Plant and Protection Quarantine (PPQ), Pest Exclusion and Import Program (PEIP), National Identification Services (NIS), you will be responsible for the daily operational activities of the assigned laboratory, facilitating scientific activities required for pest identification. (Of the 3 vacancies announced here, two will focus on Molecular Biology, and one will focus on Mycology)