There are four (4) positions that may be filled from this announcement.
In addition to the education requirement, you must meet either of the two following criteria by 5/18/2025 (effective date of the promotions): (1) have a minimum of 104 weeks of GAO experience, equivalent to at least the next lower band level (PE-I, PA-I, PT-II, PT-I, AC-III, AC-IV) applying biological science, engineering or physical science practices to ensure the project systems meet performance objectives; plan and conduct projects/studies to evaluate and recommend ways to improve the efficiency of operations; provide recommendations to ensure projects/programs are coordinated in an efficient and cost-effective manner; and participate in the resolution of issues affecting assigned project(s). OR (2) have 78 weeks of GAO experience, equivalent to at least the next lower band level (PE-I, PA-I, PT-II, PT-I, AC-III, AC-IV) AND have a minimum of 52 weeks of directly related work experience prior to starting work at GAO applying biological science, engineering or physical science practices to ensure the project systems meet performance objectives; plan and conduct projects/studies to evaluate and recommend ways to improve the efficiency of operations; provide recommendations to ensure projects/programs are coordinated in an efficient and cost-effective manner; and participate in the resolution of issues affecting assigned project(s).
At the Band IIA, the incumbent serves as a Sr. Biological Scientist / General Engineer / Physical Scientist providing research and analysis toward technology assessments, technical performance audits, and technology and/or engineering / physical science / biological science related engagements. Duties of Band IIA staff involve, but are not limited to, the following: - Support the execution of science and technology engagements including performance audits, technology assessments, and Comptroller General forums and roundtables; - Provide technical advice and support to engagement teams across GAO on biological science, general engineering and/or physical science related aspects of the engagement, in accordance with GAO standards; - Contribute to the development of the engagement's approach, including participating in the preparation of the design matrix and project plan; conducting background research on the subject matter; preparing and organizing engagement-related documentation; data gathering and analysis from a variety of sources, including developing interview questions and taking thorough interview notes; and evaluating engagement-related documentation to make logical inferences and draw accurate conclusions; - Conduct interviews to gather appropriate information, and communicate relevant information to agency officials, team members, internal stakeholders, and congressional staff, during formal and informal presentations and meetings; - Conduct analysis of the engagement research data, responses received from interviewees, and other evidence that has been collected from various sources; - Prepare written summaries of interviews and analyses, and produce reports and other written products that effectively communicate information and findings; - Collaborate with others to address issues or solve problems and follow up with others to ensure needs are met; and solicit, listen to, and consider diverse perspectives, approaches, or viewpoints, and incorporate others' perspectives into decision-making; - Support the data analysis and evaluation phase of the engagement related to biological science, general engineering and/or physical science topics. This includes data analysis and message development by synthesizing technical information and drawing preliminary conclusions, and periodically presenting findings to engagement team members, management, and stakeholders; - Perform indexing and referencing of products and assist with the coordination of agency comments and the preparation of final products; and - Perform other duties as assigned.