In addition to the educational requirements, we are looking for at least one year of specialized experience related to this position as described below:

To qualify for the Research GS-11 level, you need to have at least one year of full-time experience equivalent to the GS-09 level defined as assisting laboratory research involving coastal/estuarine ecosystems; analyzing experimental endpoints; and preparing scientific reports;

• OR masters or equivalent graduate degree in the academic discipline as described below;
• OR an equivalent combination of education and experience.

To qualify for the Research GS-12 level, you need to have at least one year of full-time experience equivalent to the GS-11 level defined as conducting research (i.e., formulating hypotheses, developing research plans, adapting existing methods/techniques) in coastal/estuarine ecosystems; and analyzing or communicating research results;

• OR Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree in the academic discipline as described below;
• OR an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Your answers to the online assessment will be used to evaluate your competencies in the following areas: 1) Knowledge of scientific concepts and principles related to water quality and ecosystem services; 2) Skill in coordinating and conducting laboratory research; 3) Knowledge of sampling equipment and instrumentation; 4) Skill in analyzing scientific and technical data; 5) Skill in oral communication; 6) Ability to present scientific and technical information to stakeholders; 7) Ability to manage research laboratories; 8) Skill in written communication.

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, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.

If you have part-time work experience, read this: EPA Announcement Policies and Procedures.

Except in special circumstances, those new to the federal government will be hired at the starting salary (step 1) of the applicable grade range listed in the Overview section.

EPA participates in E-Verify. E-Verify is an Internet based system operated by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in partnership with the Social Security Administration (SSA) that enables participating employers to electronically verify the employment eligibility of their newly hired employees. For additional information: EPA Announcement Policies and Procedures.

Are you a Displaced Federal Employee? If so, please read the Required Documents section and visit the EPA website for additional information: EPA Announcement Policies and Procedures

Diversity, equity, and inclusion are core values at EPA. Our excellence can only be fully realized by staff who share our commitment to these values. Successful candidates are committed to advancing equity and inclusion in the Agencys workplace and mission. We encourage applications from candidates with a variety of personal experiences, values, and worldviews that arise from differences of culture and circumstance. At EPA, diversity is a vital element in bringing a balance of perspectives to bear on every challenge we face. We are committed to creating a diverse workforce because we know that the individual strengths and abilities of our employees make us a stronger organization. The more inclusive our employee base is, the greater the variety of ideas that are generated, and the more representative we are of the nation we serve. To learn more about how EPA values and supports our diverse workforce, visit Equal Opportunity Employment at EPA.

If you are selected, travel, transportation, and relocation expenses will not be paid by EPA. Any travel, transportation, and relocation expenses associated with reporting to work in this position will be your responsibility.

This position is in the bargaining unit.