Biological Science Laboratory Technician
Summary
This position is located in the Agricultural Research Service (ARS) Produce Safety & Microbiology Research Unit in Albany, California
In this position, you will be conducting experiments involving bacteria or viruses, summarizing research data, researching, and collecting microbiological samples; and utilizing microbiological research equipment.
Duties
- Collects, prepares, or evaluates and tests samples for food, soil, water, fecal matter, plants, microorganisms, and DNA.
- Maintains inventory of chemicals, stock solutions, etc., prepares solutions and reagents for use in the laboratory, or field, and safely disposes of waste material (both chemical and biological).
- Assists in one or more phases of the research process by performing a variety of technical duties, in a laboratory environment, common to research on soil, water.
- Maintains records, locates, and compiles data and other information from various sources.
- Records data involving bacteriophage absorption rate, temperature, susceptibility, efficiency of planting, and host range analysis.
- Keeps detailed records of experimental data.
- Maintains, calibrates, and modifies equipment and automated systems used for test and evaluation procedures, such as spot tests, purification, plaque assay, propagation, and ultracentrifugation.
- Performs routine and recurring techniques and studies using a variety of specialized equipment.
Qualifications
GS-5:
Specialized Experience: For this position, specialized experience conducting experiments involving bacteria or viruses, summarizing research data, researching, and collecting microbiological samples; following standard research procedures; and utilizing microbiological research equipment in a laboratory environment.
OR
Education: Successful completion of a full 4-year course of study above the high school level leading to a bachelor's degree with major study, or at least 24 semester hours in any combination of courses such as biology, chemistry, statistics, entomology, animal husbandry, botany, physics, agriculture, or mathematics. At least 6 semester hours of courses must have been directly related to the position. Related courses may include Genetics, Biochemistry, Food science Microbiology, Cell Biology, Molecular Biology.
OR
A combination of education and experience as described above.
GS-6:
Specialized Experience: For this position, specialized experience includes experience participating in a microbiological research project including collecting pathogen samples; compiling scientific data; and operating or maintaining microbiological research equipment or systems.
OR
Education: One full year of progressively higher-level graduate education leading to a master's or equivalent graduate degree, if directly related. Related courses may include Genetics, Biochemistry, Food science Microbiology, Cell Biology, Molecular Biology.
OR
A combination of graduate level education and specialized experience as described above.
GS-7:
Specialized Experience: For this position, specialized experience is participating in an experiment or research project related to the study of microorganisms, human pathogens, or bio bacterial phages; recording or analyzing microbiology research or data; utilizing microbiological research equipment.
OR
Education: One full year of progressively higher-level graduate education leading to a Master's degree, if directly related. Related degrees may include genetics, biochemistry, food science, Microbiology, Cell Biology, Molecular Biology.
OR
A combination of graduate level education and experience as described above.
Work Environment: The work involves regular and recurring moderate risks or discomforts which require special safety precautions, e.g., working with contagious diseases or irritant chemicals or working outdoors. The employee is required to use protective clothing such as gowns, coats, boots, goggles, gloves.