If you have experience working in the microbiology field and you want to play a significant role in a dynamic organization, then consider this great job within the NIH Office of Research Services (ORS)! For more information, visit http://www.ors.od.nih.gov. This position is located in the Division of Occupational Health and Safety.

Duties

As a GS-0403-13 Microbiologist, your duties may include, but are not limited to the following tasks: Exercises responsibility for planning, directing and conducting didactic and hands-on training in the BSL-4 Maximum Containment Laboratory for new research staff. Provides laboratory support for Division activities, including the conduct of special studies to improve the collection, identification, and decontamination procedures for microbiological agents. Plans, schedules and directs comprehensive safety surveys of BSL-4/ABSL-4 laboratories and animal research areas to identify potential risks. Conducts risk assessments of studies involving highly pathogenic biological material and recombinant DNA. Serves as Alternate Responsible Official for compliance with the Select Agent regulations.

Requirements

• U.S. Citizenship requirement or proof of being a U.S. National must be met by closing date.
• Employment is subject to the successful completion of the pre-appointment process (i.e., background investigation, verification of qualifications and job requirements, completion of onboarding forms, submission of required documents, etc.)
• Males born after December 31, 1959 must be registered with the Selective Service.
• Applicants must meet all qualifications requirements within thirty (30) calendar days of the closing date of this announcement, including time in grade.
• Physical Requirements: Regular and recurring physical exertion to include long periods of standing, walking, bending, crouching while wearing a BSL-4 positive pressure fully encapsulating suit.
• You may be required to wear protective equipment.
• You may be subject to a medical surveillance program due to the potential exposure to hazardous environments or substances.
• If selected, you must obtain and maintain certification as a Certified Biosafety Professional (CBSP) throughout the duration of your employment in the position.
• Requires access to BSL 3, BSL 4, and associated animal facilities and/or labs.

Qualifications

In order to qualify for a Microbiologist, GS-403-13, position, you must meet the following requirements: A. Have successfully completed the requirements for a bachelor's (or graduate) degree in microbiology. OR B. Have successfully completed the requirements for a bachelor's (or graduate) degree in biology, chemistry, or basic medical science. At least 20 semester hours need to be in microbiology and other subjects related to the study of microorganisms and at least 20 semester hours need to be in the physical and mathematical sciences (combination of course work in organic chemistry or biochemistry, physics, and college algebra, or their equivalent). OR C. I have a combination of experience and education which includes courses comparable to a major in microbiology, or biology, chemistry, or basic medical science that included courses as shown in B above, AND I have appropriate experience or additional education which demonstrates similarly appropriate skills or abilities needed to perform the duties of this position. ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS: Have 1 year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-12 level in the Federal service obtained in either the private or public sector, performing the following types of tasks: Training and mentoring employees on the safe use of laboratory equipment, primary barrier equipment and personal protective equipment commonly used in BSL-3 and BSL-4 biomedical research laboratories; inspecting and identifying BSL-4 laboratory safety hazards, and establishing biosafety approaches that improve employee health or safety; conducting infectious disease, microbiology or applied biosafety research at a BSL-3 or BSL-4 laboratory; developing and applying laboratory safety and occupational health laws, regulations, standards, practices, principles and procedures to advise on or resolve technical matters dealing with occupational safety and health requirements applied to BSL-3 or BSL-4 biomedical research laboratories. Do not copy and paste the duties, specialized experience, or occupational assessment questionnaire from this announcement into your resume as that will not be considered a demonstration of your qualifications for this position. You will receive credit for all experience material to the position, including experience gained in religious, civic, welfare, service, and organizational activities, regardless of whether you received pay. To determine your qualifications and referral status, we may review your resume and supporting documentation and compare it against your responses to the vacancy questionnaire. Ensure you support your self-ratings with the information you provide in your application.? We may verify or assess your qualifications at any time. Inflated or unsupported qualifications may affect your rating. Any misrepresentation or material omission of facts may be sufficient cause to end further consideration of your candidacy. Persons listed as knowing your past accomplishments or experience in your application may be contacted for verification purposes at any time. Verification may, but need not, begin before receiving an offer. Selective Factor: In order to meet minimum qualification requirements you must demonstrate possession of the selective factor of this position. Selective factor: Having at least 1-year of experience performing research in a Biosafety Level 4 (BSL-4) containment laboratory or overseeing the biosafety of research projects in a BSL-4 containment laboratory. Preview assessment questionnaire before you apply: https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/12478386

Education

This position has an education requirement. You are strongly encouraged to submit a copy of your transcripts (or a list of your courses including titles, credit hours completed and grades). Unofficial transcripts will be accepted in the application package. Official transcripts will be required from all selectees prior to receiving an official offer. Click here for information on Foreign Education.

Contacts

• Address National Institutes of Health 6701 Rockledge Drive Bethesda, MD 20892 US
• Name: Chris Boarman
• Phone: 301-451-7687
• Email: [email protected]