APL Ocean Scientist Assistant
UW CODE AND REPRESENTATIVE GROUP
23606 (NE S UAW RSE)
CLASS SERIES CONCEPT
Within the Applied Physics Laboratory (APL), apply scientific knowledge gained through formal education at least at the Bachelor’s level or equivalent/related experience to conduct research in one or more of the following core technical competencies APL is required to maintain as a United States Navy University Affiliated Research Center (UARC): experimental oceanography, acoustic propagation in the ocean, underwater instrumentation and equipment, simulations and signal processing, acoustic and related systems, marine corrosion, mission related and public service quick response research, development, and/or engineering.
Discovers and investigates the natural and physical world in a scientific discipline such as oceanography, physics, acoustics, environmental science, etc. Conducts research to describe and determine processes affecting the earth’s surface, subsurface, and earth-atmosphere boundaries. Studies include the physical and chemical properties and dynamic response of the earth and earth materials, flow and transport on the surface or subsurface, the carbon cycle, underground imaging, and tectonics.
Responsibility for, assisting or contributing in one or more of the following tasks: Identifying and defining research problems; Designing approaches or hypotheses to be tested and the methodology to be used; Designing specific phases of research projects; Analyzing results; Developing conclusions and hypotheses; Presenting research results in publishable form; Developing and obtaining research grants.
BASIC FUNCTION
This is a training level professional researcher. Under immediate supervision, performs assigned tasks requiring the application of standard procedures and techniques; relies on instructions and pre-established guidelines to perform the functions of the job. Position is usually limited in its application of functional area theory and principles to develop solutions to problems of limited scope. May also receive formal classroom or seminar-type training.
DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS
Works under immediate supervision to complete assigned tasks/projects. Receives specific and detailed instructions regarding required tasks and results expected; relies on pre-established guidelines to perform the functions of the job. Work is checked during progress and is reviewed for accuracy upon completion. Performs assignments to develop professional work knowledge and ability; knows fundamental concepts, practices, and procedures of particular field of specialization.
TYPICAL WORK
Performs a variety of routine tasks that are planned to provide experience and familiarization with the technical professional staff, methods, practices, and programs of the unit/laboratory/department.
Solves well-defined problems using accepted methods and techniques.
Conducts experiments or tests in the laboratory/field that include making measurements and recording data.
Contributes data for use in reports and publications.
Networks primarily limited to own technical peer group; establishes productive relationships with co-workers, customers/grant sponsors, and others to accomplish team objectives.
No defined role in identifying/securing research funding.
May guide the work of junior staff or students as necessary to achieve specific assignments.
Perform other duties as assigned.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Bachelor’s degree in a related field and less than one year of relevant experience,
OR
Equivalent combination of education/experience.
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
There may be instances where an individual position requires additional security clearance and/or U.S. citizenship. It is the employer’s responsibility to ensure the appropriate security clearance/U.S. citizenship is obtained for each position.
CIVIL SERVICE EXEMPTION
Research
CLASSIFICATION HISTORY
- New to UAW: 06-16-2022 per PERC Case No. 134711-E-21.
- Prior to 06-16-2022, this work was in professional staff job code 19691 – Research Scientist/Engineer Assistant (NE S 5).