Biological Science Laboratory Technician

$44,442 - $64,203/Yr

Agricultural Research Service - Ames, IA

Part-time,Full-time - Entry Level

Onsite - Ames, IA

Administration of Economic Programs

About the position

The Biological Science Laboratory Technician position at the U.S. Department of Agriculture involves participating in various phases of the research process related to ruminant diseases and immunology. The role includes performing technical duties in laboratory, dairy farm, or greenhouse environments, and is a term appointment with a duration of at least 13 months, extendable up to 4 years.

Responsibilities

• Maintain, calibrate, and modify equipment and automated systems used for testing and evaluation procedures.
• Tabulate, statistically analyze, and summarize data using personal computers and software packages.
• Collect, prepare, evaluate, and verify samples including dairy samples and supporting records.
• Dispose of waste material, both chemical and biological.
• Work directly with livestock on a dairy farm.

Requirements

• U.S. Citizenship or U.S. National status is required.
• Specialized experience for GS-6: One year of experience comparable to GS-5 related to research projects, sample collection/preparation, and use of automated systems.
• Specialized experience for GS-7: One year of experience comparable to GS-6 related to assisting in research projects, sample verification, statistical analysis, and equipment maintenance.
• Education: One full year of progressively higher-level graduate education leading to a master's degree in relevant fields such as Biology, Microbiology, Virology, Animal Husbandry, Dairy Science, Animal Science, or Agricultural Science.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience with statistical software packages.
• Familiarity with laboratory safety protocols.
• Knowledge of dairy farm operations.

Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits package as a federal employee.
• Eligibility for telework up to four days per week based on agency policy.
• Potential for flexible work arrangements.