Forest Watershed Science (SRS-4353)
USDA Forest Service, Southern Research Station
Forestry Sciences Laboratory, New Ellenton, SC
The Forest Watershed Science Unit (SRS-4353) of the USFS, Southern Research Station is recruiting one temporary Research Biological Science Technician (GS-404-06). The position has a salary range $35,609 to $46,294/yr. The duty station will be located at the Forestry Sciences Laboratory in New Ellenton, SC. The position is full time temporary during the period April 1st – September 30th.The program of work focuses on research pursuant to restoration of Longleaf pine ecosystems. All of the research occurs within the Department of Energy’s Savanah River Site.
The incumbent will participate in technical aspects of ongoing team-oriented research focused on understanding the response of forested ecosystems to restoration activities. Duties include, but are not limited to: (1) Conduct understory and overstory vegetation surveys. (2) Collect vegetation and soil samples according to standard protocols. (3) Grind vegetation and weigh samples for chemical analyses. (4) Sieves soil samples and utilizes soil extraction techniques involving salts, acids, and bases. (5) Practice safe laboratory techniques, handle, and dispose chemicals according to appropriate protocols and regulations. (6) Maintain inventory of chemicals and prepare reagents for use in the laboratory or field. (7) Operate field equipment including: GPS, laser range finders, mechanical soil augers, chainsaws, loppers, and, clippers. Some equipment requires specialized training for use; the incumbent will need to show proof of certification or undergo training before utilizing specialized equipment. (8) Enter and validate field and laboratory generated data into appropriate databases and manage data accordingly. (9) Summarize and analyze data using modern spread sheet, database, statistical (R or SAS), and GIS applications (Arc GIS). (10) Conduct literature searches and prepare supporting information for the scientist for distribution at scientific meetings, agency publications, and peer reviewed literature.
This position requires: (1) knowledge of the principles of forest ecological research, and the ability to lay out, schedule, organize, and execute the details of a wide variety of operational projects; at least some of which have nonstandard technical problems that must be coordinated with others; (2) ability to work independently to establish, maintain, and monitor research projects; (3) knowledge of fire prone southern pine ecosystems, their vegetation, and techniques used in their restoration such as prescribed fire and native seeding; (4) keeping appropriate records that document the proper evaluation and interpretation of ecological data; and (5) skill in the use of personal computers, software packages, and programming used in data analysis (e.g., Excel, SAS, R, ArcGIS), data storage (e.g. Access), and presentation.
Other Significant Facts: Must be able to work year round, outside for extended periods in both hot and cold environments. Must be capable of carrying 30-50 pounds for extended distances over un-even terrain. Must be able to obtain a government issued driver’s license and operate a 4 wheel drive vehicle. Must qualify to work inside of a secure DOE facility.
We anticipate officially announcing the position in the near future, with an anticipated starting date in early April, 2016. If you are interested in this position, please fill out and return the attached outreach form and send to Ben Rau, Research Ecologist, USDA Forest Service, Savanah River Forestry Sciences Laboratory, 241 Gateway Drive, Aiken, SC 29803 or email to benjaminmrau@fs.fed.us before February 5, 2016. Those interested will be sent a copy of the announcement with duties, qualifications required, and application instructions. For more information, contact Ben Rau at 803-652-3754. The USDA Forest Service is an equal opportunity employer.
The Forest Service provides reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or outreach process, please notify Cheryl Jefferson (cjefferson@fs.fed.us).