Biological Science Technician (Plants) GS-6/7 

Announcement#: USGS-SAC-25-12597211-DE-JH 

The Shinneman Lab at The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), Forest and Rangeland Ecosystem Science Center (FRESC) is recruiting for several Biological Science Technicians – Plants (GS-0404-06/07) positions to join our team investigating fire and fuel treatments. These positions may contribute to a variety of tasks such as: participating in literature reviews; entering and organizing data; and conducting vegetation surveys. USGS FRESC conducts original research to support the sound management and conservation of our nation's natural resources, with emphasis on Pacific Northwest and Intermountain West ecosystems, FRESC scientists engage in collaborative research and technology transfer with other federal, state, and tribal agencies, universities, and private partners to address complex and pressing regional and national issues.

Ideal candidates will have knowledge of standard plant survey techniques, applied ecology, fire science, fuel management, and plant identification of the Great Basin.

Field duties may include:

Collecting high-quality vegetation data including identifying sagebrush community plants to species, collecting fuels/biomass samples, measuring shrub characteristics; Ensuring data quality control and data management; Navigating to remote study sites using maps and GPS; Driving on poor and sometimes muddy 4WD roads; Conducting sample processing and laboratory work.  

Field work requires some physical exertion such as bending and walking in terrain that is rough, rocky, mountainous and densely vegetated. Required to lift and carry equipment necessary to efficiently perform the work of the position, and to provide for personal comfort and safety. This can include tools, personal protective equipment, food and water for extended periods of work away from vehicles.  

Work Environment: The work environment varies from laboratory setting to field sites and offices. The work involves moderate risks and discomforts such as high noise levels and exposure to chemicals, adverse weather conditions, and extreme temperatures that may require following special safety procedures. Field trips will often require extensive driving and may include extended periods of backcountry camping with extensive stays (up to 7 nights per trip) in remote locations. Laboratory and office time will be required following field data collection in the summer/early fall. Travel expenses will be paid by the project at camp rate per diem. If selected, you will be required to complete a pre-employment physical ande either have current First Aid/CPR certifications or be willing to become certified prior to employment.  

Locations and Salary Information: 

Boise, Idaho Salary: $44,117 (Step 01) to $63,773 (Step 10) 

Corvallis, Oregon Salary: $47,455 (Step 01) to $68,556 (Step 10) 

NOTE: First time hires to the Federal Government are typically hired at the Step 01.

Duration of Appointment: Term, 13 months, may be extended up to 4 years. All qualified applicants, with or without Federal status may apply and be considered. Appointment to this position, however, will not convey permanent status in the Federal service. 

Work Schedule: Full-Time 

Open/Close Date: Wednesday, November 13, 2024 to Thursday, November 21, 2024. 

**Please note, there is an application limit of 40 on this vacancy announcement. This means that the announcement may close earlier than the closing date listed above. The announcement will closeat the end of the day in which the application limit is reached**