Biological Science Technician (Fire Effects)
https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/584970000
DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR
National Park Service
Summary
These temporary NTE 1039 hour positions are located at Indiana Dunes National Park. For information on the duties of the position contact: Scott Weyenberg, Fire Ecologist, at 715-483-2285. Anticipated Entry on Duty: 4/25/2021.
Open to the first 100 applicants or until 01/04/2021 whichever comes first. All applications submitted by 11:59 (EST) on the closing day will receive consideration.
Responsibilities
Serves as a member of a fire effects monitoring crew. Establish and sample vegetation and fuel monitoring plots in a variety of vegetation/fuel types in accordance with established methodologies and guidelines. Independently, quickly and correctly identify grasses, sedges, herbs, shrubs, and trees to species in the field and records data accurately in the field. Enter data into computer or PDA using customized database software and verify data entry quality. The applicant may assist in the preparation of reports, plans, and guidelines. Use map and compass and uses and downloads digital cameras, GPS receivers, and PDAs. Although the incumbent's principle duties will be collecting and processing vegetation data, the incumbent may also collect weather and fire behavior data on prescribed fires, serve as a member of a fire crew, and/or will complete additional projects as needed. You will participate in prescribed fires, wildland fires, and out-of-park assignments. While assigned wildland firefighter collateral duties, you will serve as a member of a fire crew assigned to implement prescribed fire and suppress wildland fire. The work may involve fire line construction, the use of pumps and engines, installation of hose lays, mechanical removal of wildland fuels and all types of pre-suppression and prescribed fire preparation activities.
Physical Demands/Effort: Work is arduous and hazardous, involving emergency fire suppression field work, which requires physical performance calling for above average endurance and superior conditioning. The work requires strenuous physical exertion, including carrying heavy objects, running, walking, climbing, jumping, twisting, bending, stooping, hacking through underbrush, lifting more than 50 pounds and using heavy tools for long periods of time. These duties may include occasional demand for extraordinarily strenuous activities in emergencies under adverse environmental conditions and over extended periods of time. The pace of the work is often dictated by the emergency situation.
Working Conditions: Most work is performed outdoors in a forest or rangeland setting where terrain ranges from flat and swampy to steep and rocky. Terrain is often covered with thick, tangled vegetation, or a variety of trees and grasses. Temperature extremes, smoke, and dust are frequently severe. The hazardous nature of the work requires the use of protective gear and clothing (boots, hard hat, nomex clothing, gloves, etc.). The work is typically performed in isolated locations which are often away from roads and water sources; camping is necessary for extended periods. Fire suppression involves risk of serious injury or death.
The Work Capacity Test (WCT-Pack Test) is a method for assessing an employee's fitness levels for fire qualifications in the positions covered by this recruitment notice. Employees required to pass a WCT-Pack Test as a "condition of employment" will be provided one opportunity to pass the required test with a second chance provided, at the discretion of management, based on the results of the first test. This recruitment notice constitutes the required 30 days advanced notice for testing requirements. NOTE: Arduous fitness (WCT-Pack Test) will consist of completing a three-mile hike, within 45 minutes, while carrying a 45 pound pack. A time of 45 minutes, the passing score for the test, approximates an aerobic fitness score of 45, the established standard for firefighters. Applicants shall be disqualified for appointment if they fail to meet any physical requirement. Probationary or seasonal employment is subject to termination for failure to meet the 25th percentile in each of the identified component being measured.
Travel Required
Occasional travel - You may be expected to travel up to 7 nights per month for this position.
