Forensic Physical Scientist - Laboratory Analyst

Summary Organizational Location: This position is with the Department of Homeland Security, within U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Office of Laboratory and Scientific Services in Savannah, Georgia; Queens, New York; Memphis, Tennessee; Donna, Texas. Salary: Salary listed reflects the rest of the U.S. scale and, if applicable, will be adjusted to meet the locality pay or cost of living expenses of the duty location upon selection. Duties This is an advanced trainee-level, professional position located in one of the field or forward operating laboratories within the Laboratories and Scientific Services (LSS), Operations Support Office (OS), U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS). The incumbent performs chemical, physical, biological, microscopic, and forensic analyses on samples of imported merchandise or seized materials submitted to the field or satellite laboratory. These samples are accompanied by pertinent background information to support regulatory monitoring and enforcement activities. The incumbent also provides general technical advice to CBP employees. Receive samples submitted for analyses and review background material. Perform preliminary examination of the samples. Organize and write test reports and briefings, articulating technical findings, interpretations, and conclusions. Provide general advice to CBP employees on sampling and sample storage procedures. Requirements U.S. Citizenship. Males born after 12/31/1959 must be registered with Selective Service. Primary U.S. residency for at least three of the last five years. Eligibility for a thorough background investigation. Compliance with the DHS Drug-Free Workplace Plan for drug testing procedures. Qualifications Basic Requirements: Degree in physical science, engineering, or mathematics that includes at least 24 semester hours in physical science and/or related engineering science such as mechanics, dynamics, properties of materials, and electronics. Or equivalent combination of education and experience: education equivalent to one of the majors listed above with at least 24 semester hours in physical science and/or related engineering science, plus appropriate experience. One year of specialized experience at the GS-07 grade level, including writing reports on analyses; receiving samples; reviewing background material; and performing preliminary examinations. One year of specialized experience at the GS-09 grade level, including providing advice on sampling procedures, analytical methodology, instrumentation validation, troubleshooting, and developing identity, grade, and composition of samples; writing management briefs and significant event reports. Education substitution: one year of full-time graduate education or a bachelor’s degree with Superior Academic Achievement may substitute for the required experience. For GS-09, two years of graduate education leading to a master’s degree may substitute for the required experience. When combining education and experience, the total percentage must equal at least 100% to qualify. Other Requirements Residency requirement: physical residence in the United States for at least three of the last five years; residency waivers may be considered under specific conditions. Probationary period: all new federal employees must serve a one‑year probationary period. Bargaining Unit: This is a bargaining unit covered position, represented under the National Treasury Employees Union (NTEU). DHS uses E‑Verify, an Internet‑based system, to confirm the eligibility of newly hired employees to work in the United States. #J-18808-Ljbffr U.S. Customs and Border Protection