Advance Your Career as a Biological Science Information Specialist with the U.S. Forest Service
Are you a dedicated professional looking to blend technical expertise with large-scale environmental impact? The U.S. Forest Service is currently seeking a talented individual to fill the role of Biological Science Information Specialist (or Resource Information Specialist). This high-level position offers the chance to influence how we manage our nation’s most valuable natural resources while working within a collaborative research environment.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will act as a key technical authority, leading the integration of resource information programs. Your core responsibilities will include:
- Strategic Leadership: Planning and executing natural resource information programs that support regional and national goals.
- Technical Consultation: Serving as a primary troubleshooter and implementation lead for infrastructure and resource applications.
- Policy Guidance: Interpreting and advising on complex policy changes affecting forest management.
- Cross-Organizational Collaboration: Building relationships with tribes, internal departments, and external entities to align agency objectives.
- Research Support: Conducting integrated resource studies, with a specific focus on smoke and wildfire science.
Comparison: Role Scope
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Series | GS-0401 or GS-1301 |
| Grade | GS-13 |
| Appointment Type | Not to Exceed 1 Year (Extension possible) |
| Work Model | In-office (at designated USFS sites) |
Requirements
To qualify, you must be a U.S. Citizen and satisfy basic educational requirements, which include a 4-year degree in a related field such as biological science, agriculture, or physical science. You must also demonstrate at least one year of specialized experience at the GS-12 level. Applicants must ensure they meet federal background check and E-Verify standards.
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $106,437 to $138,370 per year. Beyond the salary, employees gain access to a variety of federal benefits, including potential career stability and growth opportunities within the Forest Service. Specific perks such as government housing and onsite daycare may be available depending on the final duty station.
Application Tips
- Keep it Brief: Your resume cannot exceed two pages. Focus on impactful accomplishments.
- Follow Instructions: Double-check your application for missing documents or incorrect formats.
- Stay Proactive: Check your USAJOBS profile regularly and ensure you have turned on email notifications for your application status.
If you are ready to take the next step in your career and contribute to the vital research supporting our national forests, we encourage you to apply. This role offers both the professional challenge and the scope to make a genuine difference in natural resource management.
Why This Biological Science Information Specialist/Resource Information Specialist Job Matters
Shape the future of natural resource management with the U.S. Forest Service. Use your technical expertise to lead critical information programs and influence strategic environmental outcomes at a national scale.
Biological Science Information Specialist/Resource Information Specialist Job Overview
The U.S. Forest Service is seeking a seasoned professional for a Biological or Physical Science Information Specialist role within the Sustainable Forest Management Research Unit. This interdisciplinary position centers on the integration and management of natural resource data. The selected candidate will serve as a technical authority, providing leadership on strategic analysis, infrastructure applications, and policy-related problem-solving. This is a temporary, high-impact role that offers the flexibility of a negotiable duty station while supporting the agency's vital mission of forest and range research.
Requirements for Biological Science Information Specialist/Resource Information Specialist
- Must be a U.S. Citizen or National.
- Males born after 12/31/1959 must be registered with the Selective Service.
- Must pass a background investigation and fingerprint check.
- Must be eligible for Federal salary payment via direct deposit.
- Must pass the E-Verify employment verification check.
- Must possess one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-12 grade level.
- Current federal employees must meet the 52-week Time-in-Grade requirement.
Preferred Qualifications for Biological Science Information Specialist/Resource Information Specialist
- Proven history of implementing strategic-level analyses for regional or national initiatives.
- Strong background in interpreting and applying complex resource management policies.
- Demonstrated ability to effectively collaborate with diverse groups, including tribes, external partners, and regional stakeholders.
- Experience in environmental assessment related to policy development and program implementation.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Flexible duty location options.
- ✓Career growth through Federal service exposure.
- ✓Potential for extension or conversion to permanent status.
- ✓Access to Federal employee support programs.
- ✓Representation via NFFE, AFGE, or NAGE bargaining units.
- ✓Potential access to Forest Service daycare facilities.
- ✓Possible availability of government housing.
💡 How to Apply Biological Science Information Specialist/Resource Information Specialist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Biological Science Information Specialist/Resource Information Specialist Job
- Create or update your profile on USAJOBS.
- Prepare a resume that does not exceed two pages.
- Gather supporting documents, including transcripts and SF-50 forms if applicable.
- Complete the online Assessment Questionnaire via the provided application portal.
- Upload all required documentation in an accepted format (PDF, DOC, TXT, etc.).
- Submit your application package before 11:59 p.m. ET on the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume strictly adheres to the two-page limit; excess length will result in disqualification.
- Quantify your experience; link your past duties directly to the major duties listed in the announcement.
- Verify that your uploaded documents have correctly transferred to the agency's specific staffing portal.
- Check your USAJOBS account status regularly for automated notifications.
- Reach out for technical assistance during business hours if you encounter submission issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work remotely from any location?
The position is listed as 'Location Negotiable After Selection,' but it must be based at a Forest Service office. Certain locations, such as Atlanta, Milwaukee, Washington D.C., and Portland, are excluded from consideration.
Is a college degree required?
Yes, you must meet the basic educational requirements for either the GS-0401 (Biological Science) or GS-1301 (Physical Science) series, which generally require a bachelor's degree in a relevant field of study.
Is this a permanent position?
This is a temporary appointment (NTE 1 year) that may be extended up to 5 years or potentially converted to a permanent position without further competition.
Job from Forest Service
The Forest Service, a branch of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, manages over 193 million acres of public lands. From conducting ground-breaking forest research to providing essential support to State and private forestry agencies, our mission is to ensure the health and sustainability of our natural ecosystems. Joining our team means taking on a responsibility that preserves our country’s natural heritage for future generations.