NOTE: THE SENTENCE IN PART I DESCRIBING THE PURPOSE OF THE POSITION AND PARTS II AND III IN THEIR ENTIRETY ARE PERMANENT PARTS OF THE LIBRARY AND MAY NOT BE CHANGED OR EDITED IN ANY WAY.
This position is located in:
Performs a variety of moderately difficult oceanographer assignments using accepted methods and practices.
II. MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Independently applies established oceanographic methods and practices in carrying out limited studies or research projects or segments of a larger study.
Adapts or modifies methods and procedures as needed to satisfy requirements, under guidance of higher-level oceanographer. Performs analyses and tests which typically includes physical oceanographic measurements, laboratory and/or shipboard tests, instrumental analyses, and preliminary calculations. Prepares reports of findings, making preliminary determinations of data studied.
III. FACTOR LEVELS
Factor 1 - Knowledge Required by the Position FL 1-6, 950 pts.
Professional knowledge of theories and practices in oceanography sufficient to carry out analyses and tests using established methods, procedures, and precedents and to make preliminary analyses of data.
Skill in applying the principles and techniques of higher mathematics to a variety of oceanographic problems.
Ability to prescribe and apply methods and techniques in routine analyses, computations, and reduction of oceanographic data.
Factor 2 - Supervisory Controls FL 2-3, 275 pts.
Supervisor assigns work by defining overall objectives, priorities, and deadlines, providing suggestions on unprecedented problems or factors. Employee independently plans and carries out limited studies or research projects or segments of larger studies, handling problems encountered in accordance with previous training and accepted practices. Work is reviewed for adequacy, adherence to specifications, and soundness of conclusions.
More difficult or unusual problems are referred to a higher grade oceanographer, with suggestions for a course of action.
Factor 3 - Guidelines FL 3-3, 275 pts.
Guidelines include technical scientific references and literature, accepted oceanographic methods and practices, established laboratory practices, and general agency work policy and directives. Judgment is used in evaluating and selecting the appropriate guides to use for the study being conducted and in deviating from precedents as needed.
Factor 4 - Complexity FL 4-3, 150 pts.
Performs a variety of moderately complex assignments requiring the use of standard oceanographic techniques and procedures. Considers factors involved, including planning of limited projects, scheduling the activities, selection of appropriate established methods, and accommodating changes in conditions. Assignments are oriented toward an entire project rather than individual tasks, and employee makes decisions involving these projects.
Factor 5 - Scope and Effect FL 5-3, 150 pts.
Work involves a variety of problems or studies which are solved by using established practices, although there often is a need to deviate from these precedents. The work affects reliability and acceptability of subsequent scientific products. Recommendations and conclusions affect the reliability of the unit's products.
Factor 6 - Personal Contacts FL 6-2, 25 pts.
Personal contacts include team members, other oceanographers and scientists within the agency.
Factor 7 - Purpose of Contacts FL 7-2, 50 pts.
Contacts are made to obtain additional information about the assignment or to clarify the problem to be solved, the data needed, or report the results. Contacts with others are also to discuss methodological problems.
Factor 8 - Physical Demands FL 8-1, 5 pts.
The work is primarily sedentary, with occasional walking, bending, and lifting.
Factor 9 - Work Environment FL 9-2, 20 pts.
While most work is performed in an office or laboratory setting, many oceanographers routinely spend time at sea, subject to extreme, unexpected weather situations. Other oceanographers routinely visit hazardous material spills in coastal and estuarine waters, requiring the use of protective clothing and equipment.
TOTAL = 1,900 pts.
This position is exempt from coverage under the Fair Labor Standards Act.
IV. UNIQUE POSITION REQUIREMENTS
(Last Updated: November 4, 1994)