This job originated on www.usajobs.gov. For the full announcement and to apply, visit www.usajobs.gov/job/561622500. Only resumes submitted according to the instructions on the job announcement listed at www.usajobs.gov will be considered.
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Summary
This announcement is for a Biologist in the Directorate of Biology, Division of Environmental Biology. The Division of Environmental Biology at NSF, supports research and training on evolutionary and ecological processes acting at the level of populations, species, communities, and ecosystems.
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Overview
- Reviewing applications
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Open & closing dates
03/03/2020 to 03/18/2020
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Salary
$59,534 - $93,638 per year
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Pay scale & grade
GS 09 - 11
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Location
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Telework eligible
Yes—as determined by the agency policy.
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Travel Required
Not required
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Relocation expenses reimbursed
No
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Appointment type
Permanent
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Work schedule
Full-Time
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Service
Competitive
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Promotion potential
12
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Job family (Series)
0401 General Natural Resources Management And Biological Sciences
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Supervisory status
No
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Security clearance
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Drug test
No
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Position sensitivity and risk
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Trust determination process
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Announcement number
DEB-2020-0002
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Control number
561622500
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This job is open to
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The public
U.S. Citizens, Nationals or those who owe allegiance to the U.S.
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Career transition (CTAP, ICTAP, RPL)
Federal employees who meet the definition of a "surplus" or "displaced" employee.
Clarification from the agency
Applications will be accepted from All U.S. Citizens, including individuals eligible under ICTAP or CTAP, or eligible for a non-competitive appointment under a special appointing authority.
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Duties
The incumbent serves in a developmental capacity with responsibilities for the scientific and analytical support to the Directorate on end-to-end merit review and award management and oversight processes. Specifically:
PROGRAM ANALYSIS AND REPORTING:
- Serves as an analytical resource for scientific attributes of the Directorate portfolio and answers questions about how to access critical program data and analytical information. Develops, maintains, and updates program databases, (e.g., reviewer database, outreach/site visit database, facilities database), including the assignment of scientific attributes, such as expertise of the reviewers and outcomes of outreach and site visits.
- Gathers raw data from multiple scientific sources, such as literature databases and scientific databases in order to design queries; and analyzes and presents findings to management for analysis of scientific and infrastructure trends and business process improvement.
- Prepares analytical, comparative and statistical reports of program activities and scientific accomplishments in biological and related sciences, including analysis and reporting of scientific impacts of the Directorate investments.
- Conducts program analysis of the different areas of biosciences supported by the Directorate. Drafts routine analyses, reports and presentations for other staff review and use.
MERIT REVIEW:
- Works with other staff to organize and oversee the proposal review process and on the classification of scientific areas in each portfolio.
- Responds to routine or complex inquiries from principal investigators/reviewers related to programmatic issues requiring professional scientific knowledge and judgment about research policy.
- Manages technical preparation for Advisory Committee and Committee of Visitors meetings (e.g., data collection, data analysis, preparation of portfolio analyses in scientific areas of strategic importance).
OUTREACH AND COORDINATION:
- Identifies outreach needs from the research community and works with other staff to develop outreach plans, and interfaces with other Divisions/Directorates to plan and coordinate outreach/site visit activities.
- Oversees the coordination of logistical support for outreach activities and workshops; and drafts technical materials related to NSF supported research activities for presentations, tutorials, workshops, training, and poster sessions.
- May represent NSF by staffing booths at workshops and conferences, answering questions and providing information.
BUSINESS PROCESS MANAGEMENT:
- Works collaboratively with other team members to restructure work process, standardize procedures, and implement changes for organizations supported.
- Evaluates the effectiveness of administrative procedures and the consistency of their contributions to the accomplishment of organization/program goals and objectives.
PROJECT MANAGEMENT:
- Plans, develops, coordinates, organizes, implements, communicates, and tracks project plans, guidelines, procedures and timetables, including recommending changes in policy and management activities for these projects.
- Performs management studies to evaluate and measure the progress and success of projects assigned to identify and recommend ways to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of cross-directorate programs and activities.
- Collects pertinent statistical data and narrative information from a variety of sources within and outside NSF.
- Participates in management meetings held to make decisions with regard to modifying or initiating programs or projects.
Competencies:
- Program Analysis and Reporting
- Policy Implementation and Organization Performance
- Customer Service and Communication
- Teamwork
- Project Management and Special Activities
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Requirements
Conditions of Employment
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Background investigation.
- Selective Service registration required for male applicants, unless exempt.
It is NSF policy that NSF personnel employed at or IPAs detailed to NSF are not permitted to participate in foreign government talent recruitment programs. Failure to comply with this NSF policy could result in disciplinary action up to and including removal from Federal Service or termination of an IPA assignment and referral to the Office of Inspector General. Foreign Talent Definitions
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.
You must answer all job-related questions in the NSF eRecruit questionnaire.
All online applicants must provide a valid email address. If your email address is inaccurate or your mailbox is full or blocked, you may not receive important communication that could affect your consideration for this position.
This position is in the bargaining unit.
Qualifications
You must have the basic education and/or experience requirement as follows:
1. Degree: biological sciences, agriculture, natural resource management, chemistry, or related disciplines appropriate to the position. OR
2. Combination of education and experience: Courses equivalent to a major, as shown in 1 above, plus appropriate experience or additional education.
In addition to meeting the basic education requirement described above, you must have:
For the GS-9 level, you must have at least 1 year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-7 level in the Federal service. Specialized experience is defined as: researching and retrieving biological and scientific information from databases and other sources of information and precedents; independently preparing routine spreadsheet reports; developing, maintaining and updating program databases; participating in the grant proposal review process; and screening incoming grant proposals for accuracy of information; OR
A Master's degree in biological science or a field directly related; OR
Completion of at least 2 years of graduate education in an accredited college or university in Biology or a field directly related; OR
Combinations of successfully completed graduate level education and specialized experience that meets the total experience requirements.
To qualify at the GS-11 level, you must have at least one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-9 level in the federal service. Examples of specialized experience include providing scientific and analytical support for merit review and award management and oversight processes; preparing analytical and statistical reports of program activities and scientific accomplishments in biological sciences; and scientific and technical analysis, documentation, and writing in support of reports and presentations regarding the biological research portfolios. OR
3 years of progressively higher level graduate education leading to a Ph.D. degree or Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree. OR
Combinations of successfully completed graduate level education and specialized experience that meets the total experience requirements.
Education
You must meet the minimum education requirements as described in “Qualifications."
Additional information
Relocation Expenses will not be paid.
Interagency Career Transition Assistance Program (ICTAP):
ICTAP and CTAP provide eligible displaced Federal competitive service employees with selection priority over other candidates for competitive service vacancies. If your agency has notified you in writing that you are a displaced employee eligible for ICTAP or CTAP consideration, you may receive selection priority if: 1) this vacancy is within your ICTAP or CTAP eligibility; 2) you apply under the instructions in this announcement; and 3) you are found well-qualified for this vacancy. To be well-qualified you must meet the following: OPM qualification requirements for the position, all selective factors, where applicable; special OPM approved qualifying conditions for the position; is physically qualified with reasonable accommodation, where appropriate, to satisfactorily perform the duties of the position upon entry; and receives a rating of at least “Very Good” on the questionnaire. You must provide proof of eligibility with your application to receive selection priority. Such proof may include a copy of your written notification of ICTAP or CTAP eligibility, or a copy of your separation personnel action form.
Additional information regarding ICTAP or CTAP eligibility is available from OPM's Career Transition Resources
Veteran's Preference:
If you are entitled to veterans' preference, you should indicate the type of veterans' preference you are claiming on your resume. Your veterans' preference entitlement will be verified by the employing agency. For 5-point veterans' preference, please provide your DD-214 (Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty), official statement of service from your command if you are currently on active duty, or other official documentation (e.g., documentation of receipt of a campaign badge or expeditionary medal) that proves your military service was performed under honorable conditions. For 10-point veterans' preference, please submit a Standard Form (SF) 15, Application for 10-Point Veteran Preference, DD-214, and the required documentation as specified on the SF-15.
NSF has determined that all of its positions are eligible for telework. Work suitable for telework depends on job duties; therefore, employees must receive approval from their supervisor for telework and have a telework agreement in place. Entering into a telework agreement is voluntary.
For additional information on the NSF eRecruit system, please visit our NSF eRecruit Applicant Guide.
This announcement may be used to fill like positions in other organizations within the National Science Foundation.
The Selected Candidate(s) may be subject to a background investigation.
Benefits
A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
A GREAT LOCATION! The National Science Foundation Headquarters is conveniently located across the street from the Eisenhower Avenue Metro Station, right in Alexandria, VA, a few miles from downtown Washington, DC. There are shops and restaurants within walking distance, as well as historic Old Town Alexandria a short trip away. Employees receive the Federal benefits package and NSF offers:
Pre-tax parking
Public transportation subsidy
Child care subsidy
Flexible working hours
Telecommuting
Physical Fitness Facility on site
Health Services Unit on site
Employee Assistance Program
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.
How You Will Be Evaluated
You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.
Category rating procedures will be used to rank and select eligibles. Based on your responses to the occupational questionnaire, you will be assigned a score. Your score will determine in which of three categories you will be placed: Excellent, Very Good, or Good. Under this process, veterans will be assigned to the appropriate category (without additional preference points) and then placed at the top of their category.
The information contained in your resume and supporting documentation will be compared to your responses to the Occupational Questionnaire to determine the degree to which you meet the competencies required of this position. Please ensure you answer all questions accurately. Your responses are subject to verification. In support of your responses provided in the Occupational Questionnaire, your resume should include verbiage that describes your experience relative to the position for which you are applying and provide examples that show the depth of knowledge, level of skill, or degree of ability you possess. If your application does not support your responses to the Occupational Questionnaire or your application is not complete, it may affect your evaluation or result in your name being removed from further consideration. In some cases, additional assessment processes may be used.
Applicants eligible for selection preference under the Interagency Career Transition Assistance Plan (ICTAP) or CTAP must meet the agency definition of "well qualified." In NSF categories, this means at least “Very Good.”
To preview questions please click here.
Benefits
A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
A GREAT LOCATION! The National Science Foundation Headquarters is conveniently located across the street from the Eisenhower Avenue Metro Station, right in Alexandria, VA, a few miles from downtown Washington, DC. There are shops and restaurants within walking distance, as well as historic Old Town Alexandria a short trip away. Employees receive the Federal benefits package and NSF offers:
Pre-tax parking
Public transportation subsidy
Child care subsidy
Flexible working hours
Telecommuting
Physical Fitness Facility on site
Health Services Unit on site
Employee Assistance Program
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.
Required Documents
As a new or existing federal employee, you and your family may have access to a range of benefits. Your benefits depend on the type of position you have - whether you're a permanent, part-time, temporary or an intermittent employee. You may be eligible for the following benefits, however, check with your agency to make sure you're eligible under their policies.
All applicants should submit a resume/CV of their choice, and may also submit a cover letter.
Additional Documents, if applicable, may include:
Veteran's Preference Documentation (DD-214 and SF-15): If you are eligible and claiming 5-point veteran's preference, you MUST submit a copy of your DD-214 or other proof of eligibility. If you are claiming 10-point veteran's preference, you MUST submit a copy of your DD-214, SF-15, "Application for 10-Point Veterans' Preference" and the documentation required by the SF-15. (Please note: An SF-50, Notification of Personnel Action, showing veterans' preference will not be accepted as proof of entitlement.)
CTAP/ICTAP Documentation: If you are applying under CTAP or ICTAP, you MUST submit proof of eligibility under 5 CFR 330.602(a) for CTAP and 5 CFR 330.704 for ICTAP. This includes a copy of the agency notice, a copy of your most recent performance rating, and a copy of your most recent SF-50 (Notification of Personnel Action) showing your position, grade level, and duty location. Please annotate your application to reflect that you are applying as a CTAP or ICTAP eligible.
We also ask that you complete and submit the Applicant Survey. This will help NSF to ensure that our recruiting efforts are attracting a diverse candidate pool; it will be used for statistical purposes only.
You must submit proof of meeting the basic education requirement described in the QUALIFICATIONS paragraph. Therefore, you should submit TRANSCRIPTS (unofficial copies are acceptable) or a DIPLOMA that verifies that the requirement is met.
All faxing/uploading must be completed before 11:59 PM Eastern time on the vacancy closing date. If you are faxing your information, please use extreme care in dialing the fax number to assure we receive your information. You will receive an email confirmation of receipt of your faxed/uploaded document(s).
If you are relying on your education to meet qualification requirements:
Education must be accredited by an accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education in order for it to be credited towards qualifications. Therefore, provide only the attendance and/or degrees from schools accredited by accrediting institutions recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
Failure to provide all of the required information as stated in this vacancy announcement may result in an ineligible rating or may affect the overall rating.
How to Apply
Your application should be submitted online and must be completed and all required documents successfully faxed (or uploaded) before 11:59 PM Eastern time on the closing date. You must answer all of the job-related questions to ensure full consideration for this position. For more detailed information, please review our NSF eRecruit Applicant Guide.
If you are unable to apply electronically, please use the Contact Information below for special instructions on how to submit your application materials. Hearing impaired individuals may call TDD (703) 292-8044 for assistance.
WARNING! Applications submitted online must have a valid email address. If your email address is inaccurate or your mailbox is full or blocked, you may not receive important communication that could affect your consideration for this position.
Agency contact information
Peggy Phelps
- Address
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NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION
2415 Eisenhower Ave
Alexandria, Virginia 22314
United States
Next steps
You may check the status of your application at any time on the USAJOBS website
We highly recommend that all candidates opt to receive email notifications for job status updates.
Fair and Transparent
The Federal hiring process is set up to be fair and transparent. Please read the following guidance.
Help
Required Documents
All applicants should submit a resume/CV of their choice, and may also submit a cover letter.
Additional Documents, if applicable, may include:
Veteran's Preference Documentation (DD-214 and SF-15): If you are eligible and claiming 5-point veteran's preference, you MUST submit a copy of your DD-214 or other proof of eligibility. If you are claiming 10-point veteran's preference, you MUST submit a copy of your DD-214, SF-15, "Application for 10-Point Veterans' Preference" and the documentation required by the SF-15. (Please note: An SF-50, Notification of Personnel Action, showing veterans' preference will not be accepted as proof of entitlement.)
CTAP/ICTAP Documentation: If you are applying under CTAP or ICTAP, you MUST submit proof of eligibility under 5 CFR 330.602(a) for CTAP and 5 CFR 330.704 for ICTAP. This includes a copy of the agency notice, a copy of your most recent performance rating, and a copy of your most recent SF-50 (Notification of Personnel Action) showing your position, grade level, and duty location. Please annotate your application to reflect that you are applying as a CTAP or ICTAP eligible.
We also ask that you complete and submit the Applicant Survey. This will help NSF to ensure that our recruiting efforts are attracting a diverse candidate pool; it will be used for statistical purposes only.
You must submit proof of meeting the basic education requirement described in the QUALIFICATIONS paragraph. Therefore, you should submit TRANSCRIPTS (unofficial copies are acceptable) or a DIPLOMA that verifies that the requirement is met.
All faxing/uploading must be completed before 11:59 PM Eastern time on the vacancy closing date. If you are faxing your information, please use extreme care in dialing the fax number to assure we receive your information. You will receive an email confirmation of receipt of your faxed/uploaded document(s).
If you are relying on your education to meet qualification requirements:
Education must be accredited by an accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education in order for it to be credited towards qualifications. Therefore, provide only the attendance and/or degrees from schools accredited by accrediting institutions recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
Failure to provide all of the required information as stated in this vacancy announcement may result in an ineligible rating or may affect the overall rating.
Help
Learn more about this agency
How to Apply
Your application should be submitted online and must be completed and all required documents successfully faxed (or uploaded) before 11:59 PM Eastern time on the closing date. You must answer all of the job-related questions to ensure full consideration for this position. For more detailed information, please review our NSF eRecruit Applicant Guide.
If you are unable to apply electronically, please use the Contact Information below for special instructions on how to submit your application materials. Hearing impaired individuals may call TDD (703) 292-8044 for assistance.
WARNING! Applications submitted online must have a valid email address. If your email address is inaccurate or your mailbox is full or blocked, you may not receive important communication that could affect your consideration for this position.
Agency contact information
Peggy Phelps
- Address
-
NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION
2415 Eisenhower Ave
Alexandria, Virginia 22314
United States
Next steps
You may check the status of your application at any time on the USAJOBS website
We highly recommend that all candidates opt to receive email notifications for job status updates.
Fair & Transparent
The Federal hiring process is set up to be fair and transparent. Please read the following guidance.
Beginning of a dialog window for the agency announcing this job. It begins with a heading 2 called "Learn more about Field Operating Offices of the Office of the Secretary of the Army". Escape will cancel and close the window.
Learn more about
National Science Foundation
NSF is on the leading edge of discovery in areas from astronomy to geology to zoology. In addition to funding research in traditional academic areas, the agency also supports innovative ideas, novel collaborations and numerous projects that may seem like science fiction today, but become the reality of tomorrow.
NSF ensures that research is fully integrated with education so that today's revolutionary work will also be training future scientists and engineers.
We are also at the forefront of federal business and operations best practices, ensuring accountability and efficacy of the work we do.
More about NSF.
Agency contact information
Peggy Phelps
- Address
-
NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION
2415 Eisenhower Ave
Alexandria, Virginia 22314
United States