Aquatic Ecology Technician

Clarification from the agency

This announcement is also open to those under special authorities such as Former Public Land Corps (PLC) members, and OPM Interchange Agreement and Other Miscellaneous Authorities.

Responsibilities

The primary responsibilities of the Biological Science Technician (Aquatics) role encompass, but are not limited to, the following:

• Gather data on aquatic ecosystems and hydrology from remote wetland areas across various national park units. Identify amphibians and other aquatic species using visual, auditory, and indirect field techniques such as environmental DNA (eDNA) sampling and wildlife monitoring devices.
• Oversee data management throughout its lifecycle, from pre-season planning to active field data collection and seasonal wrap-up, including necessary certification processes. Ensure the maintenance of equipment and electronic data collection tools.
• Supervise, train, and guide a team of 2-4 individuals in both office and field environments. Provide leadership and mentorship in data collection, management, and adherence to safety protocols.
• Organize logistics including daily and weekly work schedules, accommodation arrangements, communication with park personnel, gear organization or procurement, and basic vehicle upkeep.

Duties will be developmental in nature when filled below the full performance level.

Conditions of Employment

• U.S. Citizenship is required.
• Appointment is subject to a background investigation and favorable adjudication.
• Compliance with Selective Service Registration Act for males is mandatory.
• Participation in the Direct Deposit Electronics Funds Transfer Program is required.
• Individuals currently holding or who have held a General Schedule position under non-temporary appointment in the competitive or excepted service must meet time-in-grade requirements.
• Availability for on-call duties, including evenings, weekends, holidays, overtime, and shift work may be necessary.
• New employees or supervisors in the Federal government must complete a one-year probationary period.
• Overnight travel away from home may be required.
• A Wilderness First Responder certification is required.
• Ability to perform work and camp in rugged mountainous and high elevation desert areas for extended periods is essential.
• Implementation of established monitoring protocols and standardized procedures is a key aspect of this position.

Qualifications

All qualifications must be met by the closing date of this announcement unless otherwise stated.

Experience: To qualify for this position at the GS- 06 grade level, candidates must possess specialized experience comparable in scope and responsibility to the GS-05 grade level in the Federal service. This includes executing field studies on aquatic ecology, working within field crews in wetland assessments, and providing guidance to lower graded employees and volunteers.

To qualify at the GS- 07 grade level, candidates must have specialized experience comparable to the GS-06 grade level, including collecting monitoring data on wetland restoration projects and providing work direction to field crews.

Education: Candidates may also qualify based on education or a combination of education and experience.

Volunteer Experience: Experience refers to both paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work that builds critical competencies and skills relevant to this position.

Education

To qualify based on education, candidates must submit a legible copy of transcripts from an accredited institution.