Summary This position is located at the USDA-ARS Wheat, Sorghum & Forage Research Unit in Lincoln, NE. In this position, you will be statistically analyzing data using computers and software packages; preparing technical reports; performing crop molecular breeding laboratory tasks such as DNA extractions, PCR reactions and marker-assisted selection; working on-farm to plant and harvest crop field trials; and operating and maintaining laboratory or field equipment for crop research purposes. Responsibilities Collects, prepares, evaluates and verifies samples and supporting records. Participates as a team member with the scientist in all phases of the research process and assumes full technical and operational responsibility for specific phases of the research. Independently develops or designs various aspects of research projects on the basis of overall objectives outlined by the supervisor. Contributes to the planning of various steps in experiment or project and to interpretation and documentation of findings. Interprets and documents findings by preparing information to be included in manuscripts or preparing reports summarizing progress or results of research. Maintains records and locates and compiles data and other information from various sources. Keeps exact, detailed records of experimental data. Operates and maintains a variety of highly specialized complex equipment which must be calibrated and synchronized to achieve desired results. Determines the kinds and frequency of tests, observations, etc., to be made and the amount of data to be recorded. Tabulates, statistically analyzes and summarizes data using personal computers and software packages. Performs laboratory administrative tasks, including maintaining safety records, and preparing or updating administrative documents. Performs annual tasks associated with a crop molecular breeding laboratory such as DNA extractions, PCR reactions and marker-assisted selection. Performs annual on-farm tasks associated with a crop breeding program, such as using specialized equipment to both plant and harvest field trials. Requirements Conditions of Employment Qualifications Applicants must meet all qualifications and eligibility requirements by the closing date of the announcement including specialized experience and/or education, as defined below. GS-09 Specialized Experience: Specialized experience is experience directly related to the position to be filled. Specialized experience must be described for each grade level advertised. The specialized experience requirements for this position are: Qualifying experience for GS-09 includes one year of specialized experience comparable to GS-08 which is directly related to the work of this position and which has equipped the applicant with the knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform successfully the duties of the position. For this position, specialized experience is experience conducting research related to crops or grains; statistically analyzing data using computers and software packages; summarizing scientific data for inclusion in manuscripts or technical reports; and operating and maintaining laboratory or field equipment for crop or grain research purposes. OR Education: Two full years of progressively higher level graduate education leading to a master's or equivalent graduate degree, if directly related. Related degrees may include Plant Breeding, Plant Sciences, Crop Science, Crop Molecular Breeding or other related disciplines. OR A combination of education and experience as described above. PHYSICAL DEMANDS: The work requires some physical exertion, such as regular and recurring walking or bending. In many situations the duration of the activity (such as most of a work day) contributes to the arduous nature of the job. In other situations, there may be special requirements for agility or dexterity such as exceptional hand/eye coordination. WORK ENVIRONMENT: The work involves regular and recurring moderate risks or discomforts which require special safety precautions, e.g., working with contagious diseases or irritant chemicals or working outdoors. The employee is required to use protective clothing such as gowns, coats, boots, goggles, gloves. 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. Education This position does not have an education qualification requirement. 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 rated and determined to be well qualified (or above) based on an evaluation of the competencies listed in the How You Will Be Evaluated section. When assessed through a score-based category rating method, CTAP/ICTAP applicants must receive a rating of at least 85 out of a possible 100. Recruitment or Relocation Incentive may be authorized. The final determination to pay an incentive will be made by the hiring official at the time of job offer. 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 may be eligible to telework up to four days per week, based upon the duties of the position. This position may also be eligible for flexible work arrangements as determined by agency policy and any applicable collective bargaining agreements.