Become a Biological Science Laboratory Technician with the USDA ARS

Are you ready to take your laboratory skills to the next level? The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), specifically the Agricultural Research Service (ARS), is seeking a skilled Biological Science Laboratory Technician to join the Exotic and Emerging Avian Viral Diseases Research Unit in Athens, Georgia.

Job Responsibilities

As a laboratory technician, you will be deeply involved in the day-to-day research cycle. Key responsibilities include:

Equipment Management: Maintaining, calibrating, and optimizing specialized lab equipment and automated systems.
Sample Processing: Collecting, preparing, and verifying biological samples.
Data Management: Compiling, analyzing, and summarizing research data using specialized software.
Technique Execution: Performing complex microbiological and virological tests, including cell culture procedures.

Comparison Table: Why Work for the ARS?

Benefit Feature	USDA ARS Advantage
Career Growth	Potential for non-competitive promotion to GS-9
Work Environment	Cutting-edge BSL-3 research laboratories
Job Security	Federal benefits and retirement system
Impact	Protecting the national food supply chain

Requirements

To be considered for this role, candidates must demonstrate:

Citizenship: Must be a U.S. citizen or national.
Experience: One year of specialized experience at the equivalent grade level.
Education: Graduate-level coursework in relevant scientific fields (e.g., Virology, Microbiology, Immunology).
Compliance: Successful passage of drug tests, background investigations, and SRA screenings.

Salary Overview

This position is classified under the GS pay scale with a range of $53,361 to $84,857 per year, depending on qualifications and experience level.

How to Apply

Ensure your resume is exactly two pages or less.
Submit your application through the official USAJOBS platform.
Complete the required questionnaire and upload your academic transcripts.
Stay alert for USA Hire assessment links sent to your email after submission.

Working with the USDA ARS provides more than just a paycheck; it provides an opportunity to contribute to science that shapes the future of agriculture. If you meet the qualifications and are eager to work in an elite research facility, submit your application today.

Why This Biological Science Laboratory Technician Job Matters

Advance the future of poultry health and global food security with the USDA's Agricultural Research Service in Athens, Georgia.

Biological Science Laboratory Technician Job Overview

The Exotic and Emerging Avian Viral Diseases Research Unit is seeking a dedicated Biological Science Laboratory Technician to join their research team. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to high-impact scientific investigations involving microbiology, virology, and immunology within a leading federal research environment. You will play a critical role in supporting complex research projects, ensuring the accuracy of data collection, and maintaining the specialized equipment essential to laboratory, field, and greenhouse operations.

Requirements for Biological Science Laboratory Technician

Must be a U.S. Citizen or U.S. National.
Must be registered with the Selective Service if male and born after 12/31/1959.
Must undergo and successfully pass a background investigation and fingerprint check.
Must consent to and pass a drug screening prior to and during employment.
Ability to work in a high-security environment, including BSL-3 or higher facilities.
Willingness to complete a one-year probationary period.
Must sign up for mandatory Direct Deposit for payroll.
Must successfully pass an E-Verify employment check.

Preferred Qualifications for Biological Science Laboratory Technician

Graduate-level education in fields such as Microbiology, Virology, Immunology, Molecular Biology, or Animal Health.
Demonstrated experience in operating complex laboratory instrumentation.
Proven track record of managing microbiological research samples and performing cell culture techniques.
Strong technical writing skills for preparing scientific reports and manuscripts.
Advanced proficiency in statistical data analysis software.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive Federal Salary
✓Comprehensive health and life insurance options
✓Federal retirement benefits
✓Paid vacation and sick leave
✓Opportunities for career growth and non-competitive promotion potential
✓Telework eligibility as determined by agency policy

💡 How to Apply Biological Science Laboratory Technician Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Biological Science Laboratory Technician Job

Review the full vacancy announcement details on USAJOBS.
Prepare a resume that does not exceed the two-page limit.
Log in to the USAJOBS portal to begin your application.
Complete the required questionnaire and upload all supporting documents, such as transcripts and DD214.
Submit your complete application package before the deadline.
Monitor your email for instructions regarding any necessary USA Hire assessments.
Track your application status via your USAJOBS account.

💡 General Tips

Keep your resume strictly under two pages to avoid immediate disqualification.
Ensure your education transcripts are legible and clearly indicate your name and coursework.
Set aside 1-2 hours to complete the USA Hire assessments once notified.
Double-check that all uploaded document formats (PDF, DOC, etc.) are compatible with agency systems.
Use the USA Hire Applicant Resource Center to practice before your assessment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary focus of this role?

The technician will support the research activities of the Exotic and Emerging Avian Viral Diseases Research Unit by managing laboratory equipment, collecting virus samples, and assisting in the analysis of scientific research.

Is a security clearance required?

While a standard clearance is not cited, you must pass a background investigation and a Department of Justice (DOJ) Security Risk Assessment (SRA) because this role involves working in BSL-3 or higher environments.

Can I work remotely?

The position requires on-site laboratory work, though the agency may allow for flexible work arrangements or telework depending on current policies.

Job from Agricultural Research Service

The Agricultural Research Service (ARS) serves as the primary in-house research branch of the USDA. The agency is dedicated to solving complex agricultural challenges that impact both local farmers and the global food supply. By working in the Exotic and Emerging Avian Viral Diseases Research Unit, you will be part of a team committed to protecting poultry health through rigorous scientific investigation.