Agriculturist (Staff Scientist)

PDF versionPDF version
Department of Agriculture

Job Summary

Serves as an expert-level Agriculturist in the federal government's safeguarding efforts aimed at preventing the introduction into the United States (U.S.) of foreign pests and diseases that pose an economic and ecological threat to the nation.

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:
  • Represents the Cross Functional Working Groups (CFWG) assigned to support the overall coordination, planning, and implementation of Science and Technology activities within the assigned program area.
  • Writes clear and readily usable briefing papers to be used by the supervisor and Executive Director of Science and Technology.
  • Consults with APHIS and cooperating scientists regarding technical procedures, experimental results, and interpretation of data that address a wide range of problems.
  • Conducts site visits as warranted to assess adherence to established goals and to verify appropriate collaboration, providing training or presentations as needed.
  • Develops and implements best practices and processes with respect to the assigned program area.
  • Interfaces with APHIS officials, cooperators and laboratory leaders to facilitate both planned and emergency scientific support for program operations as the need arises.

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-11 LEVEL: Applicants must have one year of specialized experience (equivalent to the GS-09 level) that may have been obtained in the private or public (local, county, state, Federal) sectors which demonstrates: Experience detecting, responding, or managing plant pathogens. Experience communicating, influencing, and working with diverse groups to achieve consensus and deliver results. Experience in evaluating scientific information and developing factual reports and presentations that clearly and effectively communicate pertinent information to diverse audiences. Experience effectively negotiating, developing, and executing project work plans. Experience effectively managing and prioritizing assignments and schedules for multiple projects in a scientific setting; OR 3 years of progressively higher level graduate education leading to a Ph.D. degree or Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree in biological sciences, or related disciplines. Equivalent combinations of education and experience are qualifying 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 COMBINATION OF EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE AT THE GS-11 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.

Pay Range

$66,515.00 - $86,468.00

More information...

End Date: 

Wednesday, February 19, 2020