Become a Geneticist with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Are you a scientist passionate about protecting our nation’s aquatic resources? The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) is seeking a motivated and skilled Geneticist to join the team at the Lamar Fish Tech Center in Pennsylvania. This role offers a unique opportunity to apply advanced molecular techniques to real-world conservation challenges.
Job Responsibilities
As a Geneticist, your work will be at the intersection of laboratory science and field application. You will be responsible for:
- Conducting molecular studies using eDNA and Next-Generation Sequencing.
- Analyzing complex genomic datasets to determine population structure and diversity.
- Designing and validating experiments to improve species identification protocols.
- Collaborating with state, federal, and Tribal partners to provide scientific guidance.
Requirements
Candidates must meet the following criteria to be considered:
- Education: A bachelor's or graduate degree in genetics or a related biological field with at least 9 semester hours of genetics coursework.
- Experience: One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-11 level.
- Documentation: You must provide transcripts proving you meet the educational requirements.
- Compliance: Ability to pass a background check, possess a valid driver’s license, and satisfy Selective Service registration requirements.
Comparison of Potential Candidates
| Feature | Qualified Candidate | Best Qualified Candidate |
|---|---|---|
| Education | Meets IOR Requirements | Advanced Degree + Genetics Specialization |
| Experience | Meets GS-11 Equivalency | Extensive Experience in eDNA/NGS |
| Competency | Basic technical proficiency | Highly proficient in all job requirements |
Salary and Benefits
The GS-12 position offers a competitive annual salary ranging from $89,508 to $116,362. In addition to salary, employees enjoy robust federal benefits, including comprehensive health coverage, a strong retirement plan, and generous leave policies.
Application Tips
- Format Matters: Keep your resume to exactly two pages. The system will reject longer files.
- Be Specific: Explicitly state your hours per week for every position listed.
- Provide Transcripts: Do not forget your academic transcripts; they are required to verify the Individual Occupational Requirement.
This position is a rewarding opportunity for any scientist looking to make a meaningful difference in the field of conservation genetics. If you are ready to apply your research skills toward a sustainable future, submit your application before the closing date of September 11, 2026.
Why This Geneticist Job Matters
Apply your expertise in genomics to safeguard the future of our nation's aquatic ecosystems with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
Geneticist Job Overview
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is seeking a dedicated Geneticist to join the Lamar Fish Tech Center in Lamar, Pennsylvania. In this role, you will perform essential research using cutting-edge molecular techniques, including next-generation sequencing and environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis, to support the conservation and management of fisheries across the region.
Requirements for Geneticist
- U.S. Citizenship or National status
- Bachelor's degree or higher in genetics, or a related biological science degree with at least 9 semester hours in genetics
- One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-11 level
- Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license
- Must be registered with the Selective Service (if male born after 12-31-59)
- Successful completion of a one-year probationary period
- Must be able to pass a background investigation and E-Verify check
Preferred Qualifications for Geneticist
- Advanced experience in environmental DNA (eDNA) processing and statistical analysis
- Proficiency with Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) and bioinformatics pipelines
- Demonstrated ability to develop and validate new laboratory protocols
- Experience in cross-agency collaboration and presenting complex scientific findings to diverse stakeholders
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal health insurance programs
- ✓Comprehensive life insurance options
- ✓Retirement savings via the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS)
- ✓Paid federal holidays, sick leave, and annual leave
- ✓Flexible telework opportunities with supervisor approval
💡 How to Apply Geneticist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Geneticist Job
- Prepare a resume that specifically details your hours worked per week and highlights specialized experience.
- Gather official or unofficial academic transcripts.
- Create an account on the USAJOBS portal.
- Submit your resume, transcripts, and any applicable veterans' preference documents.
- Complete the mandatory online assessment questionnaire.
- Submit your full application package before the deadline on 09/11/2026.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume strictly to two pages or less; longer resumes will not be accepted.
- Use clear 'month-year' formatting to show the duration of your experience.
- Ensure your resume explicitly mentions 'full-time' or the specific number of hours worked weekly.
- Double-check that your transcripts clearly display your degree and the date it was conferred.
- Preview the assessment questions using the link provided in the announcement to prepare your responses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I submit a resume longer than two pages?
No. The application guidelines strictly limit the resume to two single-sided pages. Documents exceeding this length will not be reviewed.
Is this position eligible for telework?
Yes, the duties are suitable for telework, and the selectee may be permitted to telework based on current agency policy and supervisor approval.
What is the primary work setting for this position?
The role is primarily based in a laboratory and office environment, though it may occasionally require outdoor field work in varying weather conditions.
Job from U.S. Fish And Wildlife Service
The Department of the Interior and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service are dedicated to the conservation and enhancement of fish, wildlife, and plant habitats. By joining the FWS, you become part of a mission-critical team that provides the scientific expertise necessary for the stewardship of American natural resources.