JOB SUMMARY: General Information: In order to be eligible to receive consideration for this position, you must be able to: (1) report to the duty station location listed in this vacancy announcement, if selected; and (2) be available to work the schedule identified. Salary: GS-03: $17.56 (Step 01) to $22.82 (Step 10) GS-04: $19.71 (Step 01) to $25.62(Step 10) NOTE: First time hires to the Federal Government are typically hired at the Step 01. MAJOR DUTIES: The USGS California Water Science Center is seeking undergraduate level student working towards a degree in geology, chemistry, physics, geophysics, biology, ecology, mathematics, soils, forestry, meteorology, hydrology, oceanography, physical science, atmospheric science, engineering, construction, or industrial technology to gain practical experience in gathering basic hydrologic data concerning any one or a combination of four areas, i.e., quantity, quality, availability, and movement and distribution of water. As a Student Trainee (Hydrology) you will serve in a trainee capacity, performing routine and recurring development assignments to acquire knowledge and understanding of functions, principles, practices, and methods used in the area of Hydrology. Duties include: Gathering basic hydrologic data concerning any one or a combination of four areas, i.e., quantity, quality, availability, and movement and distribution of water. Developing hydrologic and precipitation data for current projects. Collecting and processing data to be used in computing stream discharge, determining ground water availability or calculating sediment, chemical, or biological concentrations and physical characteristics. Operating a government motor vehicle as an incidental driver. Physical Demands: Work is physically demanding and includes walking, bending, climbing, and lifting of equipment up to 50 pounds when in the field, sometimes during adverse weather conditions. Work performed in the office is sedentary. Work Environment: The work is primarily performed outdoors and involves moderate or sometimes extreme exposure to the discomforts of rain, cold/hot weather, and rapidly running or icy streams and rivers. Special safety precautions are required in many cases, and the employee typically wears life jackets, special safety boots, waders, and reflective rain gear. IMPORTANT: Click the 'Apply for this job' button to view a complete job description.
