Limnologist, GS-0401-11 (60616)

Position Overview

Engineering and Construction Division; Hydrology and Hydraulics Branch; Water Management Section

The Walla Walla District US Army Corps of Engineers helps manage local water resources for navigation, flood damage reduction, disaster assistance, hydroelectric power generation, and other natural and heritage areas.

DUTIES

• This position has the technical responsibility for monitoring and for studies to evaluate, preserve, and enhance water quality associated with existing proposed Walla Walla District projects.
• This position also has the technical responsibility for assignments pertaining to fisheries research, investigations, management, and problem-solving in regard to water quality and properties.
• Work with District staff on limnological aspects of all Corps projects and on river basin and reservoir pre- and post-impoundment water quality studies, advising them on physical, chemical, and biological conditions to be considered.
• Maintain knowledge of Federal and state laws and regulations regarding water quality standards and advises other sections in the establishment of monitoring and control techniques to comply with applicable water quality requirements.
• Develops and maintains current knowledge of water quality instrumentation, including flow meters, temperature sensors, water level sensors, total dissolved gas sensors, turbidity meters, telemetry systems, multi-parameter probes, etc.
• Provide water quality expertise for General Investigation studies, including potential effects on fisheries.
• Review water quality data and advises as to the suitability of specific waters for potential hatchery supply.

CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT

• Appointment may be subject to a suitability or fitness determination, as determined by a completed background investigation.
• Must possess or obtain and maintain a valid state Driver's License in one of the 50 U.S. states or possessions to operate vehicles.
• TDY travel may be required up to 15% of the time.
• Work requires special safety precautions and/or protective clothing and equipment.
• Incumbent may be called upon to operate a USACE boat/vessel less than 26 feet in length and may be required to obtain the required certification for boat/vessel operation.

QUALIFICATIONS

Who May Apply: This job opportunity is open to CURRENT, PERMANENT USACE EMPLOYEES ONLY.

In order to qualify, you must meet the education and/or experience requirements described below. 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). You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. Your resume must clearly describe your relevant experience; if qualifying based on education, your transcripts will be required as part of your application. Additional information about transcripts is in this document.

Basic Requirements for Limnologist (GS-0401):

A. Degree: Bachelor’s degree (or higher degree) in biological sciences, agriculture, natural resource management, chemistry, or related disciplines appropriate to the position.

OR

B. Combination of Education and Experience: Courses equivalent to a major, as shown in A above, plus appropriate experience or additional education.

In addition to meeting the basic requirement above, to qualify for this position you must also meet the qualification requirements listed below:

GS-11 Specialized Experience: I have one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-09 grade level in the Federal service which includes experience in applying limnological principles in evaluating physical, chemical, and biological parameters of water bodies and their relationship to the natural and built environment. (Specific experience must be well documented in resume).

See position description: https://acpol2.army.mil/ako/fasclass/search_fs/search_fs_output.asp?id=1079061&JobNum=446824&ccpo=RH

Physical Effort: Work requires long periods of standing; walking over rough terrain; recurring bending, crouching, stooping, reaching, or similar activities. Work may also include frequent lifting of moderately heavy items, such as equipment and samples that weigh less than 23 kilograms or approximately 50 pounds

Working Conditions: Work involves exposure to moderate risks and discomforts, such as those due to:

• adverse weather conditions, such as high winds and low or high temperatures;
• crowded or constricted maritime docks or ship cargo areas;
• travel in safety approved small air and watercraft and off-road vehicles;
• irritating chemicals;
• noxious fumes;
• flammable liquids;
• falling trees;
• hostile wildlife;
• poisonous insects, plants, or snakes;
• radiation; and
• potentially pathogenic bacteria.

Work requires special safety precautions and/or protective clothing and equipment

Additional information

• A relocation incentive MAY be authorized.
• Payment of Permanent Change of Station (PCS) costs may be authorized, subject to the provisions of the Joint Travel Regulations.
• When you perform a Civilian Permanent Change of Station (PCS) with the government, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS)considers the majority of your entitlements to be taxable. Visit https://www.dfas.mil/civilianemployees/civrelo/Civilian-Moving-Expenses-Tax-Deduction/ (https://www.dfas.mil/civilianemployees/civrelo/Civilian-Moving-Expenses-Tax-Deduction/) for more information.
• One-year trial/probationary period may be required.
• Selection is subject to restrictions resulting from Department of Defense referral system for displaced employees.