PPQ Bio Aid

This job was posted by https://idahoworks.gov : For more information,please see: https://idahoworks.gov/jobs/2499778[**United States Department ofAgriculture**](PCN%20recruitment%20flyer%202023.doc)**Plant Protection and Quarantine (PPQ)****Pale Cyst Nematode (PCN) Program**The US Department of Agricultures Pale Cyst Nematode Program, located inIdaho Falls, ID, is seeking to fill several seasonal vacancies: PPQ BioAid GS-03 and PPQ Technician GS-04 in the Survey, Regulatory, andSoilProcessing divisions of the program. The PCN Program offers interesting,fast-paced work, usually in the great outdoors. During the peak (AprilOctober) field operations, work hours may range between 7:00 am and 7:00pm, Monday through Saturday.Applicants with full-time availability are preferred, but flexibilityaround school schedules may be considered.Most vacancies are within the Survey division. Teams of six to eightemployees will travel throughout southeastern Idaho collecting soilsamples from agricultural fields, which will later be screened for thepresence of PCN, a major pest of potato plants that is not harmful tohumans or animals. The work mostly consists of walking in agriculturalfields collecting soil samples, in a variety of weather extremes, oftenaway from shelter and conveniences. Employees can expect to walk 7-10miles/day. Expect to be walking on rough, loose, uneven, or hillyterrain. The ability to lift 30-50 lbs is required.Vacanciesin the Regulatorydivision involve working in mobile sanitationteams cleaning farm equipment in PCN-regulated areas to prevent thespread of PCN between agricultural fields. Ability to operate ahigh-pressure wash unit is required.Vacancies in theSoil Processing Facility (Mainly November - February)involve screening soil samples for the presence of the pale cystnematode. The ability to operate a microscope and sit or stand in oneplace for extended periods of time is required. The laboratory operatesfrom 6:30 am to 3:30 pm, Monday through Friday.Although previous agricultural, laboratory, or heavy equipmentexperience are desirable, all applicants will be considered. Thoroughtraining is provided for successful applicants in each position.Pay ranges from \$15.54 to 17.45 per/hour, depending upon experience andQualifications.**Submit a 2-page (only) resume to:**2281 West Heyrend WayIdaho Falls, ID 83402Phone: (208) 522-2431Office hours:Monday through Friday7:00 am to 4:00 pm***USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.***