SEASONAL Physical Science Technican Job at National Park Service in California

Summary The Pacific West Region is recruiting for summer seasonal Physical Science Technician (GS‑1311‑5/6/7) positions intended to assist permanent staff with Physical Science Technician field work.

Responsibilities

• Assist permanent staff with Physical Science Technician field work.
• Collect and organize field data.
• Perform routine and recurring testing of collected samples.
• Perform data entry and compile reports.
• Monitor conditions in assigned program areas.
• Provide logistical support and area orientation for contract or cooperating scientists.
• Operate and maintain sampling, monitoring and laboratory equipment and instruments.
• Participate in the operation and maintenance of the park's comprehensive air quality monitoring network.
• Participate in the operation and maintenance of the park's water quality monitoring network.
• Process GIS data and prepare maps.
• Take necessary precautions to prevent loss or contamination of air and water samples.
• Provide recommendations for establishing and improving air and water quality monitoring networks, sampling methodology and analytical procedures.
• Assist researchers with implementation of projects, including environmental compliance and logistical support.
• Conduct initial assessments to evaluate potential environmental contamination levels.
• Assist with integrated pest management program by conducting chemical evaluations, recommending corrective actions and completing pesticide use documents.
• Use scientific knowledge to determine best sites for data collection.
• Plan work for field crews, exercising judgment to collect the best data possible without compromising safety.
• Ensure data is collected according to established protocols, providing guidance and training as necessary.
• Summarize and interpret data in reports for use by park managers and staff.
• Organize, coordinate, and implement the field work component of air resources, water resources, environmental contamination, integrated pest management programs and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) programs.

Physical Demands

The work is partially sedentary with prolonged standing, walking, and bending often required. Heavy items (e.g., equipment and packs up to 50 pounds) must be lifted and carried on a routine basis.

Working Conditions

The work is performed in an office, laboratory, and in the field. Field work includes exposure to extreme weather and terrain conditions, poisonous plants, biting insects, and wild animals. Laboratory work may involve exposure to hazardous chemicals. Air quality in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks may be poor; high ozone levels may be the most harmful pollutant.

Requirements

• U.S. Citizenship required.
• Appointment subject to background investigation and favorable adjudication.
• Meet Selective Service Registration Act requirement for males.
• Must participate in Direct Deposit Electronics Funds Transfer Program.
• Must possess a valid state‑issued driver's license; motor vehicle operation may be required.
• Must wear a uniform per National Park Service uniform standards.
• Overnight travel may be required.

Qualifications

All qualifications must be met by the closing date of this announcement (12/29/2025). Credit will be given for all appropriate qualifying experience. To receive credit for experience, your resume must clearly indicate the nature of the duties and responsibilities for each position, starting and ending dates of employment, and the hours worked. If part‑time, the hours must be annotated.

To qualify for GS‑05: at least one full year of full‑time specialized experience comparable to at least GS‑04, or a bachelor’s degree in a related field with a copy of transcripts.

To qualify for GS‑06: at least one full year of specialized experience comparable to GS‑05, or 18 semester hours of graduate education in a related field with transcripts.

To qualify for GS‑07: at least one full year of specialized experience comparable to GS‑06, or 18 semester hours of graduate education in a related field with transcripts.

Combination of education and experience may also satisfy qualifications per described formulas. Provide all required transcripts and documentation with application.

Benefits

As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.

Questions about this job can be directed to the listed contacts for each park:

• Devil's Postpile National Monument: Rebecca_carr_wong@nps.gov
• Mount Rainier National Park: Scott_beason@nps.gov
• North Cascades National Park: Sharon_sarrantonio@nps.gov
• Sequoia Kings Canyon National Parks: Trey_Brink@nps.gov
• Yosemite National Park: Catherine_fong@nps.gov
• Whiskeytown National Recreation Area: laura_shaskey@nps.gov