Biological Science Laboratory Technician

Duties

This position is located within the Department of the Interior, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Region 1, Abernathy Fish Technology Center, ARD Fishery Resources, duty stationed in Longview, Washington.

At the full performance level (GS-07) the major duties of this position include, but are not limited to the following:

• Receive genetic samples and biodata from partners, confirm accuracy and commit to agency database and archive.
• Prepare laboratory solutions, extract DNA from tissue samples, and conduct polymerase chain reaction (PCR) on extracted DNA.
• Complete all steps associated with library construction for next-generation DNA sequencing, including GT-Seq and RADSeq.
• Work with the laboratory manager to maintain an adequate level of supplies, assist with evaluating and selecting new or replacement laboratory equipment, and maintain standard solutions and reagents.
• Assist laboratory manager in performing statistical analyses of genetic data, and sharing results of analyses with partners.

The work is primarily in a laboratory setting, requiring walking and sitting or standing for prolonged periods. In addition, field work may require physical exertion such as walking over wet, rough, uneven, or rocky terrain with heavy equipment (including handling equipment up to 50 lbs. in weight under a variety of environmental conditions) bending, crouching, stooping, stretching, reaching, or other similar activities.

The majority of the work is performed in a laboratory and office setting, which includes handling of toxic chemicals, operation of laboratory equipment, and adherence to laboratory and safety protocols, including the required use of safety clothing and eye wear provided by the lab. The incumbent will infrequently work in field or hatchery settings, in or around running or impounded water, both indoors and outdoors, and oftentimes in inclement or rainy weather.

You may occasionally be required to work weekends.

The position is required to wear the Service Uniform in accordance with Service Uniform Policy 041 FW 4 Requirements to help achieve our mission. Employees required to wear the uniform receive a uniform allowance.

You will be required to obtain and maintain a valid State Driver's License.

You will be required to travel for meetings, trainings and occasional field visits and/or to hatcheries.

This position is suitable for telework only during an emergency or natural disaster.

Conditions of employment

• Must be a U.S. Citizen or National.
• Appointment subject to background investigation and favorable adjudication.
• Males born after 12-31-59 must be registered for Selective Service.
• Direct Deposit participation required.
• Successfully pass the E-Verify employment verification check. To learn more, visit
• Must have and maintain a valid driver's license throughout employment.
• You are required to wear a uniform and comply with the uniform standards. A uniform allowance will be provided.

As a condition of employment for accepting this position, you will be required to serve a 1-year probationary period during which your fitness and whether your continued employment advances the public interest will be evaluated.

This Probationary Period Is An Extension Of The Appointment Process And Therefore Requires The Agency To Determine If Continued Employment Would Advance The Public Interest, Meet The Organization Goals And Mission Of The Agency, And/or Otherwise Promote The Efficiency Of The Service. In Determining If Your Employment Advances The Public Interest, The Agency Will Consider:

• your performance and conduct;
• the needs and interests of the agency;
• whether your continued employment would advance organizational goals of the agency or the Government; and
• whether your continued employment would advance the efficiency of the Federal service.

Under applicable law, the employment of an individual serving a probationary or trial period automatically terminates when that period ends unless the agency affirmatively certifies, in writing, that the individual's employment should continue and that their appointment should be finalized. In the absence of agency action to affirmatively certify continued employment beyond the probationary or trial period, such appointments are terminated.

Upon completion of your probationary period your employment will be terminated unless you receive certification, in writing, that your continued employment advances the…