Biotechnology Specialist
What you'd do
This position is located within the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), Agricultural Research Service (ARS), Field Organization, Plains Area (PA), National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility (NBAF), Manhattan, KS. The incumbent is responsible for developing and evaluating the bioprocesses related to detection, diagnostics, and veterinary medical countermeasures to high-consequence veterinary pathogens such as Foot-and-Mouth Disease Virus and African Swine Fever Virus.
Major duties
Maintain and scale cell cultures, including transferring adherent cells to suspension lines. Develop upstream and downstream processes for vaccines and biologics using bioreactors up to 200 L. Perform bioreactor runs, optimization, antigen concentration, and formulation of candidate countermeasures. Perform data analysis, apply Quality by Design (QbD) principles, and evaluate results for suitability and accuracy. Maintain and calibrate moderately complex laboratory instruments and bioprocessing systems. Ensure compliance with select agent rules, biosafety requirements (BSL-2/3/4), and OSHA standards. Support research projects aligned with NP 103. Assist with editing reports, drafting scientific content, and preparing data for publications, presentations, and regulatory submissions. Support patenting, invention disclosures, and other tech-transfer documentation. Apply OSHA Bloodborne Pathogens, select agent regulations, and biosafety practices (BSL-2/3/4). Follow national/international policies regarding veterinary countermeasures, IP, dual-use research, and international exchange.
What you need to qualify
Applicants must meet all qualifications and eligibility requirements by the closing date of the announcement including specialized experience and/or education, as defined below. Basic Requirements for Biologics Series, 0401: Degree: Biological sciences, agriculture, natural resource management, chemistry, or related disciplines appropriate to the position. OR A combination of education and experience: Specifically, you must have course work equivalent to a major that included courses as shown above, plus appropriate experience or additional education. In addition to meeting the basic education requirements described above, applicants must also meet additional qualification requirements as stated below: FOR THE GS-12: Applicants must demonstrate at least one full year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-11 grade level in the Federal service. The specialized experience requirements for the GS-12 is fulfilled by having experience conducting bioprocess development activities such as maintaining cell cultures, developing upstream and/or downstream processes, or operating bioreactors or related fermentation systems for production of biologics, vaccines, or diagnostic materials. FOR THE GS-13: Applicants must demonstrate at least one full year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-12 grade level in the Federal service. The specialized experience requirements for the GS-13 is fulfilled by having experience leading bioprocess development for biologics, vaccines, or diagnostic material; independently designing, modifying, and validating upstream and downstream processes; operating and scaling bioreactors/ fermenters (e.g., shake flask to production-scale systems up to ~200 L); and transferring adherent cell lines to suspension culture for bioreactor use. FOR THE GS-14: Applicants must demonstrate at least one full year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-13 grade level in the Federal service. The specialized experience requirements for the GS-14 is fulfilled by having experience serving as a technical authority in biotechnology and bioprocessing; developing and optimizing upstream and downstream manufacturing processes, including bioreactor-based production systems; scaling laboratory processes to pilot-scale production; providing technical leadership and consultation to multidisciplinary research teams; communicating scientific findings through technical reports, presentations, publications, or regulatory documentation. Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
Before you apply
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