U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Logo
Position Title
Geneticist
Agency
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Announcement Number
R5-24-12198835-LL-DE Opens in new window
Open Period
Wednesday, November 15, 2023 to Monday, November 27, 2023
For preview purposes only. To apply, please return to the USAJOBS announcement and click the Apply button.
Eligibilities
1. Do you claim Veterans’ Preference? (limit characters)
2. Are you a current or former federal employee displaced from the agency hiring for this position?

If yes, confirm:
• you are located in the same local commuting area of the vacancy; AND,
• you are applying to a position that is at or below the grade level of the position from which you were or will be separated; AND,
• you are applying to a position that does not have greater promotion potential than the position from which you were or will be separated; AND,
• your last performance rating of record is at least fully successful or the equivalent.

For more information, review the USAJOBS Help Center.

To verify your eligibility, you must submit supporting documentation such as a Reduction in Force (RIF) separation notice or a Proposed Removal/Separation notice to include your latest performance rating (if the notice does not have this information included, you must submit a copy of your most recent performance appraisal) and a copy of your latest Notification of Personnel Action, Standard Form 50.
(limit characters)
3. Are you a current or former federal employee displaced from a position in a Federal agency other than the agency hiring for this position? If yes, confirm:
• you are located in the same local commuting area of the vacancy; AND,
• you are applying to a position that is at or below the grade level of the position from which you were or will be separated; AND,
• you are applying to a position that does not have greater promotion potential than the position from which you were or will be separated; AND,
• your last performance rating of record is at least fully successful or the equivalent. For more information, review the USAJOBS Help Center. 

To verify your eligibility, you must submit supporting documentation such as a Reduction in Force (RIF) separation notice to include your latest performance rating (if the notice does not have this information included, you must submit a copy of your most recent performance appraisal) and a copy of your latest Notification of Personnel Action, Standard Form 50.
(limit characters)
4. Are you a U.S. citizen or national?

 
(limit characters)
Preferences
1. Select the lowest grade you are willing to accept for this position. (limit characters)
Assessment 1
Basic Education Requirement (limit characters)
For each question, choose the response that best describes your experience and training. Mark only one response for each question. Please note that your answers will be verified against the information you provided in your resume or application and information provided by your references. (limit characters)
1. There is a basic requirement for this position, you must possess a degree with a major in genetics; or one of the basic biological sciences that included at least 9 semester hours in genetics. (limit characters)
Specialized Experience GS-11 (limit characters)
2. From the responses below, select the one that best describes how you meet the minimum qualifications for the GS-11 level. (limit characters)
Specialized Experience GS-12 (limit characters)
3. From the responses below, select the one that best describes how you meet the minimum qualifications for the GS-12 level. (limit characters)
Knowledge of the scientific method in applied biological research to design, implement, and conduct genetic analyses and analyze data resulting from genetic analyses. (limit characters)
Select the one statement that most accurately describes your training and experience carrying out each task using the scale provided. (limit characters)
4. Perform genetics analyses.
(limit characters)
5. Generate graphical representations of study results.
(limit characters)
6. Propose, design, coordinate, and implement molecular genetic studies of fish species.
(limit characters)
Knowledge and working expertise of molecular genetic techniques and the biology of fish species and the ability to collect genotypic, gene frequency, and DNA sequence data (limit characters)
Select the one statement that most accurately describes your training and experience carrying out each task using the scale provided. (limit characters)
7. Use DNA markers and automated DNA analyzers/sequencers to collect genotypic, gene frequency, and DNA sequence date on hatchery and wild population of fishes.
(limit characters)
8. Perform polymerase chain reaction amplification of target genes/sequences.
(limit characters)
9. Generate, store, and back-up electronic genetic data files.
(limit characters)
10. Apply molecular genetic techniques necessary for generating genotypic data files on populations of fish. These techniques include extraction and storage of genomic DNA, design of PCR primers for amplifying target DNA sequences, PCR amplification of target DNA sequences, electrophoresis and fluorescent labeling of DNA fragments, and operation of sophisticated laboratory equipment including real-time PCR machines and automated DNA sequencers.
(limit characters)
11. Apply Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) technology to conservation management questions.
(limit characters)
Knowledge of statistical methods for managing and analyzing genetic data, including monitoring genetic diversity, assigning populations of origin, pedigree relationships, evaluating sequence data for species identification, and conducting other bioinformatic analysis with genetic data. (limit characters)
Select the one statement that most accurately describes your training and experience carrying out each task using the scale provided. (limit characters)
12. Conduct analysis of genotypic and sequence data, including analysis of population genetic data, sequence analysis, and genome assembly.
(limit characters)
13. Apply and optimize bioinformatic pipelines for manipulation of raw next-generation DNA sequence data.
(limit characters)
14. Develop and manage databases to store genetic and biological data to enable data analysis.
(limit characters)
Skill in making management recommendations for conserving natural resources. (limit characters)
Select the one statement that most accurately describes your training and experience carrying out each task using the scale provided. (limit characters)
15. Develop genetic projects in response to conservation needs: including sample design, application of appropriate laboratory methods, data analysis, and interpretation of results.
(limit characters)
16. Represent agency through participation in meetings with partners, external organizations and community groups on issues of relevant conservation importance.
(limit characters)
17. Identify the need for, organize, and lead working groups in the execution of molecular genetic studies in support of mission goals.
(limit characters)
Ability to communicate orally and in writing to a wide variety of audiences. (limit characters)
Select the one statement that most accurately describes your training and experience carrying out each task using the scale provided. (limit characters)
18. Provide oral presentations at workshops, symposia, and other scientific meetings.
(limit characters)
19. Provide technical support to other professionals and partners on analytical techniques and applied research accomplishments, helps help identify technical genetic data needs.
(limit characters)
20. Collate information from multiple sources to effectively manage technical coordination of information across multiple applied research studies.
(limit characters)
21. Serve as lead author on reports which have been used as the basis of conservation or management action.
(limit characters)
22. Incorporate data into written reports, scientific publications, and oral presentations.
(limit characters)
23. I certify that, to the best of my knowledge and belief, all of the information included in this questionnaire is true, correct, and provided in good faith. I understand that if I make an intentional false statement or commit deception or fraud in this application and its supporting materials, or in any document or interview associated with the examination process, I may be fined or imprisoned (18 U.S.C. 1001); my eligibilities may be cancelled, I may be denied appointment, or I may be removed and debarred from Federal service (5 C.F.R. part 731). I understand that any information I give may be investigated. I understand that responding "No" to this item will result in me not being considered for this position. (limit characters)