PDF versionJob Summary
The purpose of the work is to perform analyses and determinations using established molecular diagnostic criteria regarding the identity of organisms potentially affecting plant health for use in determining the identity of pests intercepted at ports of entry, discovered in state and national surveys or from other state of national detection programs; to identify common problems and potential impacts; and to assist senior staff in improving identification tools for technical personnel.
Major Duties
- The duties may include, but are not limited to:
- Assists in the compilation of the Plant Protection and Quarantine (PPQ) datasets of molecular sequences of intercepted plant pests, and collaborates with Molecular Biologists.
- Assumes technical operational responsibility for planning, performing, and recording diagnostic laboratory activities within the quarantine program, and oversees diagnostic activities.
- Performs classical, real-time polymerase chain reactions (PCR) sequencing using the Sanger method and sequence analysis to identify pests of regulatory concern.
- Provides assistance to Molecular Biologists in providing guidance to PPQ on the application of molecular diagnostics, including assays for pest detection and methods for confirming pest identification.
- Modifies written Agency protocols in order to improve the identification of pests of various life stages as applied to taxonomy of pests of regulatory significance.
- Assists in the deployment and use of molecular technology in relation to identification activities.
- Maintains accurate and detailed experimental records and tabulates, statistically analyzes and summarizes data using appropriate software and computer equipment.
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: 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, optimizing, validating and performing molecular techniques including conventional PCR, real-time PCR, gel electrophoresis, sequence analysis, and other molecular and/or serological methods for identification of plant pathogens. Experience conducting molecular experiments independently while focusing on quality control to ensure reliable outcomes and continual process improvement. Experience with project and/or process management (examples include but are not limited to identifying technical problems; proposing solutions in molecular laboratory procedures, techniques or processes). OR 3 years of progressively higher level graduate education leading to a Ph.D. degree or Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree in molecular biology, plant pathology or closely related degrees. Equivalent combinations of education and experience are qualifying for this grade level. TRANSCRIPTS are required if: This position requires specific coursework or a degree in a specific field to be basically qualified. 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-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
$69,581.00 - $90,461.00