Qualifications:Minimum of 15 year(s) of experience in agricultural research and the capability to conduct field and laboratory studies. Knowledge of and experience with current methods of statistically analyzing and presenting data from microbiological field and laboratory procedures.
OR BA/BS Degree in Biological Sciences/Zoology/Chemistry/Agriculture/Natural Resource Management/Soil Science/Ecology/Agronomy.
- 1. Assisting in the planning and conducting of research projects and experiments related to Soil Science, Agronomy, & Agricultural Systems with field and lab components.
- 2. Experience in plant and nutrient cycling, biological transformation, plant and soil testing, composition, stable isotopic theory, and soil formation sufficient to effectively manage soil, fertilizer, and plant nutrients to maximize farm profitability, maintain environmental quality, and sustain long-term productivity.
- Experience required with Windows, MS Word, MS Excel, MS Access, Power Point
- SigmaPlot
Duties:The enrollee would serve as a Support Scientist as part of an interdisciplinary team. The primary purpose of the position is to provide mission continuity in the investigating alternative strategies for balancing the production and environmental effects of soil, fertilizer, and nutrient management. The findings of this research are expected to promote the sustainability of irrigated and dryland farmers by improving farm profitability, environmental quality, and long-term productivity.
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.
Physical Requirements of Position: The work of the position is sedentary. Some work requires periods of walking, standing, bending, or climbing. Employees occasionally carry light items, such as books, small instruments or samples, and similar materials. The work does not require any special physical effort.
- Collects, prepares, evaluates, and verifies the analysis of soil and plant samples for nitrogen, phosphorus, inorganic and organic carbon, and other nutrient elements as needed, along with selected biological, chemical, and physical soil properties. Keeps exact, detailed records of experimental data according to guidelines. 25%
- Assists in one or more phases of the research process. Performs tests and analyses to determine isotopic turnover by applying established analytical methods and procedures or by operating an automated analytical system according to established operating procedures. Devises and recommends alternative methods in cooperative research to determine the impact of the crop, water, and nutrient management on soil nutrient cycling. With the supervisor's approval, devises, recommends, and modifies methods that are needed to obtain the requested information.
25%
- Maintains equipment and instrumentation in top working condition, performing routine preventative maintenance and minor repairs, and promptly reporting signs of malfunction or need for major repairs.
20%
- Participates in the planning and design of studies with appropriate input from the research Scientist or other group scientists to set up and make preparations on purchasing and modifying equipment and facilities through completion. Participates in developing new techniques to solve specific problems associated with managing soil, fertilizer, and plant nutrients.
15%
- Maintains a smooth research work environment by supporting the equipment, computers, and safety programs. Resolves complex problems, such as developing and implementing multiple-use resource management plans or covering diverse resource management issues.
15%
Other:- IT Security
- Training will be provided as necessary by the agency.
- Travel Requirements: This position requires local travel to field sites to conduct research operations.
- Health and Safety Considerations: Knowledge of laboratory (i.e., radiation and chemical hygiene) and field safety rules, regulations, precautions, and procedures sufficient to ensure safety and train others. Training requirements satisfied through up-to-date annual AgLearn modules.
- Remote work arrangements are available for this position.
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