Launch Your Science Career: Physical Science Technician with the USDA
Are you looking for a career that combines technical expertise with a mission to protect public health and agricultural integrity? The Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS), a branch of the USDA, is hiring a Physical Science Technician in Gastonia, North Carolina. This role provides an excellent entry point into the federal workforce for science-minded professionals.
Job Responsibilities
As a Physical Science Technician, your primary goal is to ensure that agricultural products meet strict standards. Your daily duties will include:
- Performing chemical and physical analysis on various samples.
- Logging samples and maintaining meticulous chain-of-custody records.
- Preparing samples for testing through grinding and homogenization.
- Conducting routine maintenance on lab equipment to ensure accuracy.
- Maintaining inventory levels for chemicals and laboratory supplies.
Comparison: Laboratory Environment
| Feature | Physical Science Technician | Typical Research Lab |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Regulatory Compliance | Experimental Discovery |
| Sample Volume | High (Production) | Low (Specific Study) |
| Primary Goal | Quality Verification | Advancing Knowledge |
| Environment | Structured & Routine | Variable & Investigative |
Requirements
To be eligible, you must meet the following criteria by the closing date:
- Education: A bachelor's degree in physical science, engineering, or mathematics (or 24+ relevant semester hours).
- Experience: One year of specialized experience equivalent to GS-4 level work.
- Physical: Ability to handle lab equipment and move items up to 70 pounds.
Salary and Benefits
This position is at the GS-5 level, offering a salary range of $41,644 to $54,138. Benefits include federal health and life insurance, a robust retirement plan (FERS), and generous paid leave policies.
Application Tips
- Keep it brief: Your resume cannot exceed two pages. Focus on impactful, relevant experience.
- Documentation: Upload clear copies of your transcripts to prove your educational qualifications.
- Prepare for Assessments: Be ready to set aside time for the USA Hire competency tests after you apply.
Becoming a Physical Science Technician for the USDA is a significant step toward a rewarding public service career. With clear expectations and a mission that supports American agriculture, this role is perfect for detail-oriented individuals. Apply today to start your journey.
Why This Physical Science Technician Job Matters
Join the USDA and protect the integrity of American agriculture through precision laboratory science in Gastonia, North Carolina.
Physical Science Technician Job Overview
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is seeking detail-oriented individuals to serve as Physical Science Technicians within the Marketing and Regulatory Programs division. This role is essential for ensuring that agricultural products meet quality, contract, and safety standards through rigorous laboratory testing and analysis. You will play a vital role in maintaining the supply chain integrity of food and agricultural goods while working in a collaborative, mission-driven environment.
Requirements for Physical Science Technician
- U.S. Citizenship or National status
- Successful completion of a bachelor's degree in a physical science, engineering, or mathematics (with at least 24 semester hours in relevant subjects)
- One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-4 level in a lab or scientific setting
- Ability to lift and move objects up to 70 pounds
- Ability to perform long periods of standing, bending, and reaching
- Must pass suitability and fitness credentialing
- Submission of a resume not exceeding two pages
Preferred Qualifications for Physical Science Technician
- Proven track record in laboratory sample preparation and homogenization
- Experience maintaining chain-of-custody documentation and detailed laboratory logs
- Proficiency in utilizing chemical and physical analysis instrumentation
- Strong technical reporting and data summary skills
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal employee health, dental, and vision insurance options
- ✓Comprehensive life insurance coverage
- ✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS)
- ✓Paid federal holidays, vacation time, and sick leave
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and career advancement
- ✓Work-life balance initiatives
💡 How to Apply Physical Science Technician Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Physical Science Technician Job
- Create or update your profile on the official federal hiring portal.
- Draft a concise, two-page resume highlighting your lab experience and education.
- Submit your application package, including transcripts and supporting documents, via the online portal.
- Monitor your email for a notification regarding mandatory competency-based assessments.
- Complete the online assessments within the designated timeframe.
- Review your application status periodically through your account dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Tailor your resume specifically to the major duties listed in the announcement.
- Ensure your transcript clearly shows your name, university, and relevant coursework.
- Verify that your uploaded documents are under 5MB and in supported formats like PDF or Word.
- Complete the assessment as soon as possible to avoid technical issues near the deadline.
- Double-check that your resume explicitly links your experience to the duties required for this position.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the education requirement for this position?
Applicants must have a bachelor's degree in a physical science, engineering, or math, or have completed at least 24 semester hours of coursework in these fields.
Is travel required for this role?
This position is designated with low travel requirements, though candidates should be prepared for typical lab and office environments.
Can I submit a resume longer than two pages?
No, your resume must be two pages or fewer. Any resume exceeding this limit will result in your removal from consideration.
Job from Agricultural Marketing Service
The USDA’s Marketing and Regulatory Programs division facilitates domestic and global marketing for U.S. agricultural products. By working here, you contribute to the protection of national plant and animal health. It is an organization that values integrity, precision, and public service, offering a stable environment where your daily work has a tangible impact on the economy and food safety.