Biological Scientist (Environmental)

Job Description

Department of the Air Force

Air Force Civilian Career Training

Summary

Important: Click the “Learn more about this agency” button below for additional details.

This position is part of the PALACE Acquire (PAQ) Program, a formal Air Force internship designed to develop future environmental professionals. Under the guidance of senior staff, you will gain practical experience in biological sciences and environmental management, performing tasks to support the planning, execution, and oversight of assigned environmental programs.

This is a developmental opportunity offering hands-on training and progressively challenging responsibilities in support of the Air Force’s mission to maintain compliance with environmental laws and promote sustainable practices.

Who May Apply

✅ The Public: U.S. Citizens, Nationals, or individuals who owe allegiance to the United States
✅ Students: Currently enrolled in an accredited high school, college, or graduate program
✅ Recent Graduates: Individuals who graduated within the past 2 years — or up to 6 years for eligible veterans

Key Duties

At the GS-07 Level:

• Perform basic, clearly defined assignments under supervision to support larger environmental projects
• Assist in implementing projects both in-house and through contracts, ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local regulations
• Help coordinate training and educational materials for environmental programs
• Provide routine guidance on questions or issues within assigned program areas
• Follow all safety, health, and environmental procedures

At the GS-09 Level:

• Execute moderately complex assignments as part of larger environmental initiatives
• Manage assigned projects, ensuring compliance with environmental policies and regulations
• Help develop and deliver training materials for program areas
• Provide advice and support for more complex environmental questions and projects
• Comply with all health, safety, and environmental policies

Conditions of Employment

• U.S. Citizenship required
• Selective Service: Male applicants born after 12/31/59 must be registered
• Mobility: Relocation during or after training may be required; PCS may be authorized
• Work Schedule: May include evenings, weekends, holidays, or shift work; occasional travel may be required
• Licensing: May need to drive a government vehicle; valid driver’s license required
• Emergency Response: May serve on the Emergency Response Force
• Security Clearance: Some positions require a Top Secret clearance, polygraph, and/or random drug testing
• Training: Must successfully complete all training and maintain required certifications
• Academic Requirement: Minimum GPA of 2.95 on a 4.0 scale
• Probation: Must complete a one-year probationary period

Qualifications

Basic Requirements:
A bachelor’s degree in biological sciences, agriculture, natural resource management, chemistry, or a related field, OR a combination of relevant education and experience.

Grade-Level Requirements:

• GS-07: 1 year of specialized experience at GS-05 level OR 1 year of graduate-level education OR superior academic achievement.
• GS-09: 1 year of specialized experience at GS-07 level OR 2 years of progressively higher-level graduate education leading to a master’s degree or equivalent.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Understanding of environmental principles and practices
• Ability to use relevant software and research technical materials
• Capability to adapt environmental methods and complete assignments with supervision
• Knowledge of related environmental laws and regulations (more advanced at GS-09)

Education

• If you use education to qualify, submit transcripts (unofficial transcripts are acceptable at application, but official transcripts will be required before hiring).
• Foreign degrees must be evaluated for U.S. equivalency.

Additional Information

• This public notice collects applications and does not guarantee selection or referral.
• Volunteer experience can count toward your qualifications.
• Federal relocation expenses may be taxable; see current IRS and GSA guidance.
• Special hiring priority may apply for certain displaced federal employees.