Biological Scientist/Agriculturist (Quantitative Risk Analyst)

Find Your Future With Us at USDA – Animal Plant Health Inspection Service Job Summary The Biological Scientists in Ames will implement USDA's Veterinary Biologics Program under the Virus-Serum-Toxin Act and support the efforts that uphold scientific integrity, regulatory compliance, and laboratory standards. The Agriculturists in Raleigh will play a key role in PPQ Science and Technology by developing and applying quantitative scientific analyses to assess plant pest risks and provide the scientific foundation for regulatory and operational decision-making. Qualifications 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 REQUIREMENT: Degree in biological sciences, agriculture, natural resource management, chemistry, or related disciplines appropriate to the position. OR Combination of education and experience: post high school education with courses equivalent to a major, which is defined as 24 semester/36 quarter hours, in the biological sciences, agriculture, natural resources management, chemistry or related disciplines appropriate to the position, PLUS appropriate experience or additional course work. In addition to meeting the basic requirement, applicants must meet the following qualification requirement: FOR THE GS-12 LEVEL: Applicants must have one year of specialized experience (equivalent to the GS-11 level) that may have been obtained in the private or public (local, county, state, Federal) sectors which demonstrates: Applying advanced scientific principles in applied biology, ecology, epidemiology, microbiology, statistics, or related disciplines to address regulatory or risk-based program needs. Designing, conducting, and evaluating scientific studies, including interpreting complex experimental data, risk models, or laboratory test results. Developing or improving scientific tools or methodologies, such as risk assessment models, laboratory assays, data analysis protocols, or sampling schemes. Documenting scientific findings through scientific publications, technical reports, risk assessments, presentations, or program guidelines. Collaborating with diverse scientific and regulatory partners and providing authoritative guidance or recommendations that influence national programs. Note: There is no education substitution for specialized experience at this grade level. TRANSCRIPTS are required if: This position requires specific coursework or a degree in a specific field to be basically qualified. This education must have been successfully completed and obtained from an accredited school, college, or university. 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. Major Duties The duties described are for the full-performance level. At developmental grade levels, assignments will be of more limited scope, performed with less independence and limited complexity.The duties may include, but are not limited to:The Agriculturist (Quantitative Risk Analyst) in Raleigh, NC develops and applies quantitative models and tools, including predictive and spatial analysis approaches, to assess the introduction, spread, and impacts of plant pests and diseases.The Biological Scientist in Ames, IA conducts protein expression and stability studies on traditional and recombinant microorganisms, studies of pathogens, and detection of microbes through traditional and molecular methods; trains junior scientists. Position Start Date: 10/22/2026 Position Close Date: 10/28/2026 Salary Offered: 90234 - 121511 USD Per Year You can make a difference! The U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Marketing and Regulatory Programs (MRP) needs bright, energetic and committed professionals to facilitate the domestic and international marketing of U.S. agricultural products and to protect the health and care of animals and plants in the United States. We operate in domestic and global markets. Be part of an organization that protects the health and agriculture of the American people. Join our team! To learn more about what it's like to work at the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, what the agency does, and the types of careers, please visit the APHIS careers site. APHIS is an emergency response agency. This means that all Agency employees may be asked or assigned to participate in rotating temporary duty assignments to support emergency programs at some time during their careers with APHIS. For details click: APHIS Emergency Response Please see the full announcement on USAJobs by clicking on the APPLY button!