The EPA Environmental Research and Business Support Program has an immediate opening for a full-time Environmental and Water Resource Support position with the Office of Research and Development at the EPA facility in Ada, OK.
The Office of Research and Development at the EPA supports high-quality research to improve the scientific basis for decisions on national environmental issues and help EPA achieve its environmental goals. Research is conducted in a broad range of environmental areas by scientists in EPA laboratories and at universities across the country.
The Groundwater, Watershed, and Ecosystem Restoration Division (GWERD) located in Ada, Oklahoma conducts basic and applied research to understand processes that affect the quality and availability of ground water and to evaluate and develop strategies and technologies to protect ground water resources. Scientists conduct research to evaluate ground water flow and factors influencing the fate and transport of anthropogenic and naturally occurring contaminants in the subsurface. Scientists also conduct research focused on ecosystem processes and manipulations that can be used to achieve restoration goals. Additionally, researchers provide technical support to federal and state environmental regulators on issues regarding subsurface contamination, contaminant fluxes to other media (such as surface water and air), and ecosystem restoration.
To support these activities, GWERD laboratories are equipped with state-of-the-art analytical instrumentation for chemical characterization of ground water and surface water. The analytical function of the Division is critical to supporting the research and technical assistance mission of the laboratory. This project involves analytical support for the analysis of water to support research to protect surface water resources, field support for collection of samples from selected streams and reservoirs included in the study, spreadsheet and database support for file organization, and additional project support as needed.
The selected candidate shall provide laboratory sample analysis (including dry gas, nutrients, and isotopes), method application, method development, field sample collection, logistics, data management, data curation and data analysis support for ecological and biogeochemical research projects related to floodplains, ground water, river, and watershed aquatic ecosystems. His/her time shall be split between the laboratory, field, and administrative desk duties. Primary duties shall be assisting with sample analysis, method development, lab management, data collection, and input of that data into electronic formats, performing quality assurance checks on data, analytical support, and any associated administrative duties such as HASP/QAPP development or revisions.
The selected candidate shall assist with geo and biogeochemical methods, analytical sample analysis, data collection activities, data checking/verification activities, data analysis, and occasional field work. He/she shall be required to assist with preparation for field trips and log in/receipt of samples for processing after field trips, including glassware washing and field equipment decontamination processes at GWERD. Occasional travel to field sites and assistance with sample collection will also be required. He/she shall collect data, verify data, input data, and generate reports.
The selected candidate shall maintain careful and accurate records in a laboratory notebook, following the requirements of an approved quality assurance project plan (QAPP), document electronic file contents and locations, and shall make entries as necessary into permanent laboratory instrument logbooks. These notebooks and all other data produced under this order shall be the property of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. He/she shall receive training on basic safety requirements at GWERD before he/she begins work in the laboratory.
Depending upon experience, the selected candidate may be trained and pass a proficiency test on analytical equipment, sample preparation, and standard operating procedures for the specific equipment. Analytical and research equipment will include, but not limited to gas chromatography, spectrophotometry, fluorometry, Hach Kits, and multi-parameter sondes.
The selected candidate shall be capable of writing and communicating procedures and protocols on field and lab activities.
The selected candidate will receive hands-on lab and field research experience. Responsibilities may include, but not be limited to: 1) Field trip preparation and sample collection coordination; 2) Developing, managing, and maintaining systems and databases to track lab and field scientific research; 3) Developing procedures and protocols to support geochemical analysis; 4) Developing graphs and presentation materials, prepares spreadsheets, charts, and narrative information, as well as science interpretation. He/she may be expected to participate in meetings or seminars in support of the Statement of Work.
Salary: Selected applicant will become a full-time temporary employee of ORAU and will receive an hourly wage of $27.31 for hours worked.
Hours: Full-Time
Travel: Field travel may be required, including overnight
Expected Start Date: The position is full time and expected to begin April 2018. The selected applicant will be a temporary employee of ORAU working as a contractor to EPA. The initial contract period is through May 14, 2018, and EPA may elect to renew the contract for an additional two (2) 12-month optional periods.
Working Conditions:
The selected candidate will be supervised by a mentor who will provide day-to-day direction, as well as coach, advise, and counsel, and review his/her work. The mentor for this position will be a federal EPA employee.
This position will primarily involve work in a laboratory setting and may involve exposure to hazardous elements. Limited travel to field sites and assistance with sample collection may also be required. Work will be performed in an office or laboratory setting at the GWERD and at select field sites. During work in the laboratory the selected candidate will wear safety glasses, a laboratory coat (provided by GWERD), and closed-toed shoes. Work performed at field sites may require HAZWOPER training, life jackets, hearing protection, safety glasses, and other specialized safety equipment (provided by GWERD) as dictated by the Health and Safety Plan for the field site. The work day will be eight hours Monday through Friday unless otherwise agreed to by the selected candidate and EPA mentor.
Use of Government Vehicles: Use of government vehicles by the selected candidate is anticipated.
For more information, contact EPAjobs@orau.org. Do not contact EPA directly.
Eligible applicants must:
EPA ORD employees, their spouses, and children are not eligible to participate in this program.
Required Knowledge, Skills, Work Experience, and Education
The applicant shall have:
Desired Knowledge, Skills, Work Experience, and Education
It is desirable for the candidate to have:
I certify that I am at least 18 years of age; a recent graduate with at a minimum a Master of Science degree in geochemistry, geology, ecology, biology, limnology, environmental science, chemistry, environmental engineering, or a closely related field from an accredited university or college within the last 24 months; a citizen or a Legal Permanent Resident of the United States of America; and not a current employee of EPA ORD or the spouse or child of an EPA ORD employee.
ORAU is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE AA M/F/Vet/Disability); visit the ORAU website for required employment notices.
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