Student Services Contractor (Biology technician)

1.         Background

The National Wildlife Health Center (NWHC) is a science center of the United States Geological Survey (USGS). The Center’s mission is to advance wildlife health science for the benefit of animals, humans, and the environment. NWHC staff conduct research on wildlife diseases. In particular, the Student Services Contractor (SSC) will assist NWHC personnel to perform research on chronic wasting disease. Authority for the USGS to enter into contracts directly with students is provided under 43 U.S. Code § 50d.

2.         Description of Student Services

The SSC will be expected to perform laboratory work under the supervision of NWHC personnel and according to standard protocols. Laboratory work will include: laboratory upkeep, reagent preparation, sample collection, sample preparation, sample extraction, the performance of molecular biology techniques and biochemical assays, data entry and reporting. The student will provide animal husbandry and monitor the welfare of a wide variety of wildlife species. The SSC may be asked to assist with the administration of treatments, collection of samples or observations from animals being used in research projects. 

3.         Level of Knowledge or Skills

The SSC will need a background in biological science and an ability to solve problems while working independently. Desirable experience or education includes work in a laboratory and/or with animals. The position requires the ability to follow directions for the successful completion of tasks. Attention to detail is a requisite. The student must be reliable and possess a positive and professional attitude. The ability to work well independently and as part of a team are required. Good communication time management and organizational skills are required. A background check will be carried out.

4.         Working Conditions

The incumbent will work in a laboratory and/or animal housing facility that requires frequent clothing changes and observation of biological safety practices. The incumbent will be required to participate in the NWHC Occupational Health and Safety program. The environment may contain noxious odors and infectious agents capable of producing disease in animals and humans. The incumbent will utilize potentially hazardous chemicals. The SSC will use personal protective equipment such as safety glasses, gloves, laboratory coats, boots, coveralls, biological-safety cabinets, and respirators. Work is often done in an isolated area where contact with other employees is limited. Weekend and holiday hours are expected.Work may involve prolonged standing and may require the ability to lift 50 lbs. Work in the laboratory may involve use of equipment which can result in exposure to dust, chemicals, biological, mechanical and laboratory hazards, and noise. SSCs injured on the job are covered by the Federal Employees’ Compensation Act; Workers Compensation benefits are covered by the Government. The SSC will also be included in workplace safety and injury prevention programs. The SSC is required to register in the System for Award Management at sam.gov to compete for federal contracts. NWHC can provide guidance with this process.

5.         Compensation

$20.81 per hour for a student who has completed a B.S. degree.

$25.77 per hour for a student who has completed a B.S. degree with superior academic achievement (>3.0 GPA).

Student service contractors are entitled to 1 hour of paid sick leave for every 30 hours worked. Student service contractors receive 1099 tax documents each year (usually by the end of January). 

The student services contractor is responsible for all costs of transportation to and from the principal duty station location. The Government does not provide housing, meals or other living expenses while working at the principal duty station. Travel away from the duty station is not expected, however, if it should be required, SSC are eligible to travel on the same terms as Federal Employees. 

Former students who graduated more than 12 months ago are not eligible to work under these contracts.

6.         Principal Duty Station

USGS National Wildlife Health Center

6006 Schroeder Road, Madison, WI 53711