Physical Science Technician (Field Assistant)

The Geological Survey is hiring a Physical Science Technician (Field Assistant) in Reston, VA, for a temporary position lasting up to one year. The role involves performing technical work in laboratory and field environments, including data collection and sample preparation. The job requires physical stamina for outdoor work under various conditions and offers a salary between $22.11 and $28.74 per hour. No degree is required.
JOB SUMMARY: What General Information Do I Need To Know About This Position? Salary: $22.11 hourly (Step 01) to $28.74 hourly (Step 10); NOTE: First time hires to the Federal Government are typically hired at the Step 01. MAJOR DUTIES: Duration of Appointment: This is a temporary excepted service position not-to-exceed 1 year but may be extended without further competition. Employment may not exceed 1,039 hours in a service year. All qualified applicants, with or without Federal status may apply and be considered. Appointment to this position, however, will not convey permanent status in the Federal service. As a Physical Science Technician (Field Assistant) within the Northeast Region, some of your specific duties will include: Performing technical work in a laboratory or field environment in support of professional or technical employees engaged in data collection and/or laboratory analysis related to the physical and/or chemical properties of samples. Performs one or more of the following duties: Collect and prepare field data for a variety of project types. Operate or assist in the operation of data collection stations. Monitor and evaluate conditions in assigned areas. Prepare sediment and rock samples for physical or chemical analysis. Perform chemical analyses and physical measurements of samples applying various techniques to a wide variety of materials. May operate a government motor vehicle or boat as an incidental driver. Physical Demands: Work is physically demanding and includes walking, bending, climbing, and lifting of equipment up to 100 pounds when in the field, sometimes during adverse conditions. Work Environment: The work is performed in a laboratory or field environment. Field work involves moderate or sometimes extreme exposure to the discomforts of rain, cold/hot weather, and rapidly running or icy streams and rivers. Special safety precautions are required in many cases, and the employee may typically wear life jackets, special safety boots, waders, and special handling gear. If selected, you will be required to complete a pre-employment physical. IMPORTANT: Click the 'Apply for this job' button to view a complete job description.