SummaryThis position is located with the National Wildlife Research Center (NWRC) in Starkville, MS at one of its field stations. The position provides research leadership and supervision of an assigned NWRC Research Project. You will be responsible for leading and advancing your own research in reducing human-wildlife conflict; leading, and coordinating, research conducted by other scientists and support staff to support the Wildlife Services mission; and maintaining an active research facility.
DutiesHelp
- The duties described are for the full-performance level. At developmental grade levels, assignments will be of more limited scope, performed with less independence and limited complexity.
- The duties may include, but are not limited to:
- Discover, evaluate and develop novel methods and technologies for managing overabundant or pest vertebrate species, with an emphasis on mammals and birds.
- Discover, evaluate and develop effective and economical systems for the delivery of these methods and technologies targeting vertebrate animals.
- Coordinate research and development activities with appropriate NWRC scientific collaborators, regulatory units and managers.
- Field test different applications of control methods and technologies.
- Suggest means of enhancing control technologies (improving efficacy, efficiency and selectivity, or reducing undesirable characteristics) from knowledge of animal behavior, population processes, etc.
QualificationsApplicants must meet all qualifications and eligibility requirements by the closing date of the announcement, including specialized experience and/or education, as defined below.
BASIC REQUIREMENT: Degree: biological sciences, agriculture, natural resource management, chemistry, or related disciplines appropriate to the position.
ORCombination of education and experience: Courses equivalent to a major, as shown above, plus appropriate experience or additional education.
In addition to the basic requirement above, applicants must also meet the following:
FOR THE GS-13 LEVEL: Applicants must have one year of specialized experience (equivalent to the GS-12 level) that may have been obtained in the private or public (local, county, state, Federal) sectors which demonstrates:
Provided strategic direction for a research program and led a team of researchers that includes managing staff, budgets and equipment.
Independently planned and conducted research studies in captive and field settings, with an emphasis on wildlife biology and/or ecology of fish-eating birds, that are broad and complex in scope. Studies conducted to provide tools, information and solutions towards an integrated wildlife damage management approach in the areas of protecting agriculture, natural resources, property and human health and safety.
Experience communicating research findings through peer-reviewed, scientific publications and reports and presentations to diverse stakeholders.
Note: There is no education substitution for this grade level.
TRANSCRIPTS are required if:
- This position requires specific coursework or a degree in a specific field to be basically qualified.
- This education must have been successfully completed and obtained from an accredited school, college, or university.
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional, philanthropic, religious, spiritual, community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
EducationPlease see above for education qualification requirement information.
Additional information- Career Transition Assistance Plan (CTAP), Reemployment Priority List (RPL), or Interagency Career Transition Assistance Plan (ICTAP): Visit the OPM website for information on how to apply as a CTAP, RPL, or ICTAP eligible. To exercise selection priority for this vacancy, CTAP/RPL/ICTAP candidates must meet the basic eligibility requirements and all selective factors. CTAP/ICTAP candidates must be well qualified, which means having knowledge, skills, abilities, and/or competencies that exceed the minimum qualification requirements for this position. CTAP/ICTAP applicants must receive a rating of at least 85 out of a possible 100 to receive selection priority.
- First time hires to the federal government normally start at the lowest rate of the salary range for the grade selected.
- Travel, transportation, and relocation expenses will not be paid. Any travel, transportation, and relocation expense associated with reporting for duty will be the responsibility of the selected employee.
- Promotion Potential: If you are selected for a position with further promotion potential, you will be placed under a career development plan, and may be non-competitively promoted if you successfully complete the requirements and if recommended by management. However, promotion is neither implied nor guaranteed.
- This position is subject to a Research Grade Evaluation Panel Review to determine eligibility to be promoted to the next grade level. Research scientists have open-ended promotion potential. Research accomplishments and their impact on the duties and responsibilities of positions are evaluated periodically. The grade level is limited only by the individual's demonstrated ability to perform research of recognized important to science and technology.
Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
BenefitsHelp
A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.
