Research Technician 3 (Onsite)

Job Description

Job Description

Research Technician 3 (Onsite) ID: ARS-MWA-027 Location: Ames Program: ARS
Wage/Hr: $25.00 Hours/Week: 30 Minimum Age: 55

For over 25 years, National Experienced Workforce Solutions (NEW Solutions) has specialized in connecting experienced workers (ages 55+) with full-time and part-time job opportunities that support the critical missions of Federal Agencies across the United States.

NEW Solutions connects experienced workers (ages 55+) with the USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS). These experienced professionals provide administrative, scientific, and technical support to the Agricultural Research Service through the Experienced Worker Program (EWP).

Positions listed here do not guarantee employment for any definite period. Enrollment in the Experienced Worker Programs administered by NEW Solutions is temporary. The enrollment relationship between NEW Solutions and the Enrollee is an ?at-will? relationship. This means that an Enrollee is free to terminate enrollment at any time during the enrollment period, and NEW Solutions and the Agency have the right to terminate the relationship with the Enrollee.

PLEASE NOTE: An ?Enrollee? is not a federal employee, nor an employee of NEW Solutions. An ?Enrollee? is a participant in a grant program established through a Cooperative Agreement funded by the agency and administered by NEW Solutions. The enrollee shall not sign federal documents, authorize the use of federal funds, nor initiate or conduct federally funded research projects. The enrollee shall not author articles for publication as a federal employee, nor coordinate scientific research between the Government and private industry. The enrollee shall not present themselves as a Government employee or Government representative at meetings both foreign and domestic or when coordinating federal agencies? areas of research. The enrollee shall not make decisions on federally based research on behalf of Government policy makers, and the enrollee shall not supervise any Government employees.

This opportunity applies to applicants legally eligible to work in the United States.

*This position will be open until filled.

Qualifications:

Minimum of 3 year(s) of experience in microbiology or plant biology laboratory. OR BA/BS Degree in Biology, Microbiology

• Knowledge and proficiency in basic microbiological techniques, including DNA Extraction, Polymerase Chaine Reaction, sterile technique, and isolation and culture of microorganisms.
• Experience required with Windows, MS Word, MS Excel

Duties:

Enrollee will be responsible for collection, processing and analysis of soil, plant and microbiological samples. Duties may include soil and plant DNA extraction, maintenance of bacterial cultures, plant growth and maintenance, and analytical techniques. With monitor guidance, enrollee may be responsible for establishment of lab and greenhouse experiments and data collection in lab, greenhouse and field. Detailed maintenance of experimental notes and lab books required. The enrollee shall not sign federal documents, authorize the use of federal funds, nor initiate or conduct federally funded research projects. The enrollee shall not author articles for publication as a federal employee, nor coordinate scientific research between the Government and private industry. The enrollee shall not present themselves as a Government employee or Government representative at meetings both foreign and domestic or when coordinating federal agencies? areas of research. The enrollee shall not make decisions on federally based research on behalf of Government policy makers, and the enrollee shall not supervise any Government employees.

• Collect, prepare, evaluate, and verify soil samples and supporting records. 40%
• Maintain records and compile data and other information from various sources. 30%
• Operate and maintain a variety of specialized equipment which must be calibrated and synchronized to achieve desired results. 20%
• Maintain bacterial cultures and ensure integrity of bacterial cultures. 10%

Other:

• Training provided as needed.
• Health and Safety Considerations: General laboratory and filed safety training are required and will be provided.
• Required Safety Gear: The Safety and Occupational Health Specialist will identify safety equipment needs on the first day in the workplace.
• Safety Gear Use: The Safety and Occupational Health Specialist will identify safety equipment needs on the first day in the workplace.
• Physical requirements: Must be able to perform general lab and field duties. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.

NEW Solutions is committed to promoting equal opportunity and to an environment free from discrimination and harassment in any form administering Experienced Worker Programs under cooperative agreements with federal agencies. It is NEW Solutions' policy to comply with all applicable laws that provide equal opportunity and to prohibit unlawful discrimination in enrolling participants in the federal programs.