PDF versionJob Summary
This position plays a key role in Plant Protection and Quarantine (PPQ), Science and Technology's (S&T) advanced analytics, with respect to the application of technical and scientific findings to the development of operational trends and pathway analyses. The specific focus of this position is on quantitative and qualitative analysis and the development of advanced analytical methods to assist S&T in evaluating pathway, operational, and staffing trends.
Major Duties
- The duties described are for the full-performance level. At developmental grade levels, assignments will be of more limited scope, performed with less independence and limited complexity.
- The duties may include, but are not limited to:
- Plans and organizes the completion of quantitative and qualitative analysis with special emphasis on agricultural commodity pest and disease pathway trends.
- Develops spatial analysis (GIS) and maps applicable to risk analysis, develops outreach, communication, and training materials related to quantitative and qualitative analysis.
- Researches, collects information and data from a wide range of sources, and develops a framework for risk assessment.
- Develops and improves analysis and statistical methods associated with the characterization of pathway risks.
- Using new or modified techniques, the incumbent plans, organizes, and coordinates investigations and studies to improve data gathering procedures.
- Assists in the technical review of reports, proposals, guidelines, and procedures prepared by the Science and Technology program and headquarters staff or others.
- Apply, adapt, modify and develop the technology and methods designed to quantitatively assess foreign country/commodity interactions, field operations and risk trends.
Qualifications
Applicants must meet all qualifications and eligibility requirements by the closing date of the announcement, including specialized experience and/or education, as defined below. BASIC REQUIREMENT: Biologist (0401) Degree in biological sciences, agriculture, natural resource management, chemistry, or related disciplines appropriate to the position. OR Combination of education and experience: Courses equivalent to a major, as shown above, plus appropriate experience or additional education. FOR THE GS-12 LEVEL: Applicants must have one year of specialized experience (equivalent to the GS-11 level) that may have been obtained in the private or public (local, county, state, Federal) sectors which demonstrates: Experience working independently or as a team leader on complex quantitative analytical tasks and applying problem solving and analytical skills to provide innovative solutions to unique or complex and/or politically sensitive issues. (Examples of quantitative analytics tasks include first hand expertise with spatial analytical products, GIS analytics, statistical analysis experience or training, data science training or experience, or economic analyses.) Experience with written and oral scientific communications related to quantitative analysis or forecast modeling or risk analysis. Evidence of written communications would be statements about technical publications or reports related to quantitative analysis or statistical analysis, risk analysis, spatial analysis, geographic information systems or forecasting or predictive modeling. Evidence of oral communications by statements that individual has presented work in conferences (scientific or otherwise) or to forest managers, farmers or other scientists or stakeholders on the topic of quantitative analysis, spatial analysis, statistical analysis, geographic information systems or forecast models or predictive models. Experience independently initiating, formulating, planning, executing, and controlling important studies or continuing projects, and in developing and deploying data-driven quantitative analytical products following best practices. Note: There is no education substitution for this grade level. TRANSCRIPTS are required: This position requires specific coursework or a degree in a specific field to be basically qualified. This education must have been successfully completed and obtained from an accredited school, college, or university. 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.
Pay Range
$86,335.00 - $112,240.00