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Project Title: US Forest Service - Resource Assistant Program Position: 

General Biological Specialist

 

Project Type: In-person with opportunities for remote work, travel, and training.

 

Duration: 8 months weeks starting June 2024

 

Location: USDA Forest Service International Institute of Tropical Forestry (IITF), Sabana Field Research Station, Luquillo, PR

 

Housing: Must be secured by the intern/fellow. A housing stipend of up to $1,000 per month will be provided.

 

Project Background:  This position serves at a Research Station in a Research Work Unit (RWU).  Key responsibilities include supporting researchers by collecting and processing samples, manage and organize data. The incumbent will interact and collaborate with other team members, and work across functional areas.

 

Project Duties:    

 

Resource Assistants (RAs) will work and communicate with a Hispanic Access Program Associate during their fellowship. Fellows will be expected to participate in scheduled conference calls, webinars, and meetings conducted throughout their term. Fellows will capture photos and/or videos for reporting purposes and submit 3-5 blog posts highlighting their experience and development. (5%)

 

  • Participates as a team member with analysts and scientists in all phases of the research process and supports technical, operational, and management responsibility for specific phases of the research.
  • Provides input into the initial planning of projects and technical support during implementation, (e.g., collects, prepares, evaluates, and verifies samples and supporting records).
  • Maintains records. Locates and compiles data and other information from various sources.
  • In consultation with the supervisor, the intern contributes to the planning of various steps in the experiment or project and the interpretation and documentation of findings.  Contributes to the development of various procedures, new or improved methods, and/or designs specialized applications. This position is responsible to operate and help maintain a variety of highly specialized, complex equipment which must be maintained, calibrated, and synchronized to achieve desired results.

 

Desired Qualifications: 

  • Knowledge of general concepts, practices, and methods of the biological sciences sufficient to interpret, evaluate, and identify forest ecosystems, verify results, and prepare routine reports.
  • Ability to design and organize project objectives and select alternative work processes. Must possess an understanding of the intended use of the project results to incorporate the most appropriate techniques and methods in the overall plan.
  • Skill in the use of computers, software applications, databases, and automated systems to accomplish work.
  • The work might require prolonged standing and walking in difficult terrain conditions in the field.
  • Completion of Masters Degrees in Biological Sciences from an accredited university 

 

Minimum Qualifications:

  • US citizenship or permanent residency. Interns must undergo a government background check if selected.
  • Education in Biological Sciences. 
  • Must be 17 years of age or older.
  • Must have a driver’s license.

 

Working Conditions: This position will be based at the USFS International Institute of Tropical Forestry, Sabana Field Research Station in Luquillo, Puerto Rico. Work environment will vary between outdoor assignments in the field and indoor assignments in the office. Offices are adequately lighted and ventilated. Duties in the outdoors can occur in sunny, warm or hot, and humid conditions. Candidates are encouraged to research local conditions and amenities.  

 

Stipend + Benefits:

  • A biweekly stipend of $1,300 based on a 40-hour workweek
  • Monthly housing stipend up to $1,000 per month
  • Monthly commuting stipend up to $50
  • Health insurance coverage
  • Travel expenses paid to participate in orientation July 15, 2024 – July 19, 2024 
  • Funds available to support professional development opportunities that align with role and goals (training, conference, etc.)
  • Direct Hire Authority Eligibility – after completing 960 hours, DHA status provides special non-competitive hiring status when applying for certain federal positions.

 

 

Application:

Hispanic Access Foundation (Hispanic Access) is managing the recruitment for these positions. All applications should be submitted through Hispanic Access' MANO Project application page. A resume and two references will be required for submission. Your application or resume should include professional and educational experience, along with any awards, technical skills or volunteer activities. Application questions or issues may be directed to nicole@hispanicaccess.org. 

 

Applications for this position are due on Sunday, April 28, 2024 11:59 pm. Interviews are scheduled to take place between May 7 and May 9, 2024.

 

Reasonable Accommodation Policy Statement:

Federal agencies must provide reasonable accommodation to applicants with disabilities where appropriate. Applicants requiring reasonable accommodation for any part of the application and/or hiring process should contact Hispanic Access Foundation directly. Determinations on requests for reasonable accommodation will be made on a case-by-case basis.

 

US Forest Service Mission:

To sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of the Nation’s forests and grasslands to meet the needs of present and future generations.

 

Hispanic Access Foundation Mission:

Hispanic Access Foundation (Hispanic Access) is a 501(c)(3) national nonprofit organization that connects Latinos and People of Color to partners and opportunities improving lives and creating an equitable society. Hispanic Access’s vision is that all Hispanics throughout the U.S. enjoy good physical health, a healthy natural environment, a quality education, economic success, and civic engagement in their communities with the sum improving the future of America.