Job DescriptionJob DescriptionBACKGROUND
The National Biodefense Analysis and Countermeasures Center (NBACC) is a one-of-a-kind facility located on Fort Detrick in Frederick MD and is dedicated to defending the nation against biological threats. Its work supports DHS and National biodefense preparedness planning, response, emerging threat characterization and bioforensic analyses. It is the first national laboratory created by DHS in response to biodefense gaps identified following the Amerithrax attacks of 2001 and has been operated by the Battelle National Biodefense Institute (BNBI) since 2006. Since its inception, NBACC and its staff have filled critical shortfalls in our scientific knowledge of biological agents needed to protect the public and defend the Nation from biological threats, whether naturally occurring, accidental, or deliberate and provided federal law enforcement with scientific data to support the investigation and attribution of biocrimes and protection of the US bioeconomy.NBACC includes two centers: the National Bioforensic Analysis Center (NBFAC), which conducts the technical analyses in support of federal law enforcement investigations, and the National Biological Threat Characterization Center (NBTCC), which conducts experiments and studies to obtain data required for a better understanding of biological vulnerabilities and hazards. Together these centers offer a unique national resource for understanding the risks posed by biological agents and emerging technologies to inform biodefense policy and response planning and the operational capability to support the investigation, prosecution, and prevention of biocrimes and bioterrorism.PRIMARY FUNCTIONAs part of the NBACC Genomics and Bioinformatics Department, supports the NBFAC by establishing and executing sequencing-based laboratory methods to support characterization of complex metagenomic samples, as well as bacterial, viral, and eukaryotic biological agents, including those that have been genetically engineered.MINIMUM REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONSRequires a PhD (or equivalent) in a scientific discipline or engineering, and 0-4 years of related experience; may include post-doctoral experience.Experience with using genomics- and bioinformatics-based approaches to answer complex questions is essential.Experience with a variety of different sequencing technologies (e.g., Illumina, Pacific Biosciences, Oxford Nanopore Technologies) is desirable.Proficiency and clarity of oral and written communications are essential.Exemplary organizational skills with a proven track record of working effectively both independently and as a team player.Knowledge or experience with biocontainment facilities and procedures, laboratory safety, biosurety, and decontamination is desirable.Skills and experience to support laboratory activities and work in accordance with NBACC’s management system (e.g., ISO).Must be a citizen of the United States, able to obtain and maintain an interim secret clearance leading to a top-secret clearance, suitability for DHS, and a favorable adjudication of the Department of Justice (DoJ) for select agent access. Participation in the Immunization Program, Medical Surveillance Program, and enrollment in the Personnel Reliability Program (PRP) is required.May be required to participate in NBACC’s alternative work and/or on-call schedule, dependent upon business needs.PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIESAssists in managing signature cross-contamination control measures and environmental surveillance within laboratory spaces.Performs genomics-based work in BSL-2, BSL-3, and BSL-4 containment laboratories with appropriate training.Executes modular automated workflows for genomic sequencing analysis, including metagenomic analysis, assembly, annotation, and genotyping.Works with other PIs and NBACC management to define both long- and short-term strategies for advancing genomic applications in biodefense.Exercises judgment within defined procedures and practices to determine appropriate action. Receives no instruction on routine work and general instruction on new assignments. Willingness to work on problems of diverse scope in which analysis of data requires evaluation of identifiable factors, with expert knowledge of complex scientific principles and concepts.Willingness to formulate scientific hypothesis and demonstrate technical proficiency, scientific creativity, collaboration with others and independent thought. Participates in the testing and evaluation of new technologies and protocols including writing and updating NBACC Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), work instructions and forms to improve NBACC’s ability to serve its customers.Identifies departures from the Quality Management System (QMS) and initiates actions to investigate and prevent such occurrences.Provides analysis, opinions and interpretation, and issues reports.Develops, optimizes and validates new or modified methods and procedures.Ensures competence of staff to operate specific equipment or perform tests (may issue Authorizations).Prepares necessary SOPs, work instructions and other materials required to maintain the QMS under the ISO 17025 Standard.Maintains and evaluates records of analysis and reviews laboratory results, plans and reports.Ensures that equipment, reagents and supplies are maintained and used properly.Directs, prioritizes, schedules, and provides technical expertise to staff to conduct work.Must be a team player, communicate clearly, be open to hearing ideas and suggestions from others, diffuse situations, and exercise empathy and patience with colleagues.Must have the ability to multi-task, maintain composure under pressure, and utilize effective time management skills to prioritize tasks.Must be a self-starter driven by an eagerness to succeed, maintain flexibility, adapt to change in a productive and positive manner, learn new concepts, and utilize critical thinking to resolve complex problems.Maintains appropriate records.Performs other duties as assigned/authorized.
Job DescriptionJob DescriptionBACKGROUNDThe National Biodefense Analysis and Countermeasures Center (NBACC) is a one-of-a-kind facility located on Fort Detrick in Frederick MD and is dedicated to defending the nation against biological threats. Its work supports DHS and National biodefense preparedness planning, response, emerging threat characterization and bioforensic analyses. It is the first national laboratory created by DHS in response to biodefense gaps identified following the Amerithrax attacks of 2001 and has been operated by the Battelle National Biodefense Institute (BNBI) since 2006. Since its inception, NBACC and its staff have filled critical shortfalls in our scientific knowledge of biological agents needed to protect the public and defend the Nation from biological threats, whether naturally occurring, accidental, or deliberate and provided federal law enforcement with scientific data to support the investigation and attribution of biocrimes and protection of the US bioeconomy.NBACC includes two centers: the National Bioforensic Analysis Center (NBFAC), which conducts the technical analyses in support of federal law enforcement investigations, and the National Biological Threat Characterization Center (NBTCC), which conducts experiments and studies to obtain data required for a better understanding of biological vulnerabilities and hazards. Together these centers offer a unique national resource for understanding the risks posed by biological agents and emerging technologies to inform biodefense policy and response planning and the operational capability to support the investigation, prosecution, and prevention of biocrimes and bioterrorism.PRIMARY FUNCTIONProvides laboratory support for the NBACC, NBFAC, NBTCC, and Infrastructure. MINIMUM REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONSHigh school diploma with 0-4 years of experience is required.Experience in cleaning biomedical or containment laboratories is desired.Desired skills include experience with general laboratory operations and support including familiarity with ISO 17025, working in biocontainment (BSL-3), and adherence to relevant safety guidelines and regulations.Well versed in the use of PC-based office automation and the Microsoft Office suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook). Proficiency and clarity in both written and oral communications are essential.Demonstrated organizational skills and proven track record of working independently and as a team player.Ability to prioritize responsibilities.Current driver’s license and good driving record in order to operate Government Furnished Vehicle.Skills and experience to support laboratory activities and work in accordance with NBACC’s management system (e.g., ISO).Must be a citizen of the United States, able to obtain and maintain an interim secret clearance leading to a top-secret clearance and suitability for DHS. Participation in the Immunization Program, Medical Surveillance Program and/or enrollment in the Personnel Reliability Program (PRP) is required.May be required to participate in NBACC’s alternative work schedule and/or on-call schedule, dependent upon business needs. PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIESPerforms routine BSL-2 and BSL-3 laboratory cleaning, disinfecting, and sterilization for the NBACC.Performs regular safety checks on emergency showers and eye flushing equipment.Cleans and mops change rooms and laboratories and collects, sterilizes, and removes containment waste.Stocks scrubs, towels, and laboratory supplies.Stocks kitchenette items such as coffee, silverware, etc.Delivers compressed gas and liquid nitrogen cylinders to laboratories and support areas.Assists with shipping and receiving functions.Performs daily and weekly integrated pest management functions.Maintains and encourages the maintenance of a safe workplace. Attends safety trainings applicable to position. Immediately reports any infractions of safety procedures noticed while cleaning the laboratories Performs occasional local travel as required.Escorts vendors and technical representatives throughout the facility when necessary.Must be a team player, communicate clearly, be open to hearing ideas and suggestions from others, diffuse situations, and exercise empathy and patience with colleagues.Must have the ability to multi-task, maintain composure under pressure, and utilize effective time management skills to prioritize tasks.Must be a self-starter driven by an eagerness to succeed, maintain flexibility, adapt to change in a productive and positive manner, learn new concepts, and utilize critical thinking to resolve complex problems.Maintains appropriate records.Performs other duties as assigned/authorized.
Job DescriptionJob Description BACKGROUNDThe National Biodefense Analysis and Countermeasures Center (NBACC) is a one-of-a-kind facility located on Fort Detrick in Frederick MD and is dedicated to defending the nation against biological threats. Its work supports DHS and National biodefense preparedness planning, response, emerging threat characterization and bioforensic analyses. It is the first national laboratory created by DHS in response to biodefense gaps identified following the Amerithrax attacks of 2001 and has been operated by the Battelle National Biodefense Institute (BNBI) since 2006. Since its inception, NBACC and its staff have filled critical shortfalls in our scientific knowledge of biological agents needed to protect the public and defend the Nation from biological threats, whether naturally occurring, accidental, or deliberate and provided federal law enforcement with scientific data to support the investigation and attribution of biocrimes and protection of the US bioeconomy.NBACC includes two centers: the National Bioforensic Analysis Center (NBFAC), which conducts the technical analyses in support of federal law enforcement investigations, and the National Biological Threat Characterization Center (NBTCC), which conducts experiments and studies to obtain data required for a better understanding of biological vulnerabilities and hazards. Together these centers offer a unique national resource for understanding the risks posed by biological agents and emerging technologies to inform biodefense policy and response planning and the operational capability to support the investigation, prosecution, and prevention of biocrimes and bioterrorism.PRIMARY FUNCTIONUtilizes standard methods for the identification of bacteria obtained from forensic evidence at the NBFAC in support of the FBI and other federal partners. Characterizes bacterial agents using phenotypic, biochemical and/or automated identification systems at Biosafety Levels 2, 3, and 4 under an ISO 17025 Quality Management System.MINIMUM REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONSBachelor of Science (or equivalent) in a scientific discipline or engineering, and a minimum of 4 years of related experience.Clinical laboratory experience and/or ASCP certification in Microbiology is highly desired.Intermediate scientific proficiency in laboratory functions. Possesses the ability to identify issues with laboratory protocols, procedures, and experimental plans.Proficiency and clarity of oral and written communications are essential.Exemplary organizational skills with a proven track record of working effectively both independently and as a team player.Knowledge or experience with biocontainment facilities and procedures, laboratory safety, biosurety, and decontamination is desirable.Skills and experience to support laboratory activities and work in accordance with NBACC’s management system (e.g., ISO).Must be a citizen of the United States, able to obtain and maintain an interim secret clearance leading to a top secret clearance, suitability for DHS, and a favorable adjudication of the Department of Justice (DoJ) for select agent access. Participation in the Immunization Program, Medical Surveillance Program and enrollment in the Personnel Reliability Program (PRP) is required. May be required to participate in NBACC’s alternative work and/or on-call schedule, dependent upon business needs.PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIESConducts bioforensic casework at BSL-2, BSL-3 and BSL-4 by performing standard bacteriological analyses such as gram staining, antibiotic resistance testing, phenotypic/biochemical testing and automated bacterial identification (Vitek 2 and BIOLOG). Participates in Laboratory Response Network (LRN) analyses on environmental and clinical (if required) samples. Accurately documents and maintains results, equipment, and reagents in a computerized Laboratory Information System (LIMS) and interprets data for the preparation of analytical reports.Participates in the research and development of new methods and technologies for bacterial characterization.Performs maintenance and characterization of the Bioforensic Repository Collection including shipment of materials.Ability to cross-train with other NBFAC teams.Possesses the ability to work on multiple science tasks simultaneously, while performing assignments outside of area of expertise.Exercises judgment within generally defined practices and policies in selecting methods and techniques for obtaining solutions. Follows established procedures on routine work, requires instruction only on new assignments, and is self-sufficient in monitoring and reporting on quality and compliance.Participates in the testing and evaluation of new technologies and protocols including writing and updating NBACC Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), work instructions and forms to improve NBACC’s ability to serve its customers. Identifies departures from the Quality Management System (QMS) and initiates actions to investigate and prevent such occurrences.With minimal supervision, operates, maintains, and characterizes the performance of equipment ensuring the reagents and supplies are maintained and used properly. Serves as a member of a team in developing, validating and maintaining methods for identifying and characterizing biological threat agents.Must be a team player, communicate clearly, be open to hearing ideas and suggestions from others, diffuse situations, and exercise empathy and patience with colleagues.Must have the ability to multi-task, maintain composure under pressure, and utilize effective time management skills to prioritize tasks.Must be a self-starter driven by an eagerness to succeed, maintain flexibility, adapt to change in a productive and positive manner, learn new concepts, and utilize critical thinking to resolve complex problems.Maintains appropriate records.Performs other duties as assigned/authorized.
Job DescriptionJob DescriptionBACKGROUNDThe National Biodefense Analysis and Countermeasures Center (NBACC) is a one-of-a-kind facility located on Fort Detrick in Frederick MD and is dedicated to defending the nation against biological threats. Its work supports DHS and National biodefense preparedness planning, response, emerging threat characterization and bioforensic analyses. It is the first national laboratory created by DHS in response to biodefense gaps identified following the Amerithrax attacks of 2001 and has been operated by the Battelle National Biodefense Institute (BNBI) since 2006. Since its inception, NBACC and its staff have filled critical shortfalls in our scientific knowledge of biological agents needed to protect the public and defend the Nation from biological threats, whether naturally occurring, accidental, or deliberate and provided federal law enforcement with scientific data to support the investigation and attribution of biocrimes and protection of the US bioeconomy.NBACC includes two centers: the National Bioforensic Analysis Center (NBFAC), which conducts the technical analyses in support of federal law enforcement investigations, and the National Biological Threat Characterization Center (NBTCC), which conducts experiments and studies to obtain data required for a better understanding of biological vulnerabilities and hazards. Together these centers offer a unique national resource for understanding the risks posed by biological agents and emerging technologies to inform biodefense policy and response planning and the operational capability to support the investigation, prosecution, and prevention of biocrimes and bioterrorism.PRIMARY FUNCTIONUtilizes Light Microscopy (LM), Raman Spectroscopy, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Focused Ion Beam Scanning Electron Microscopy (FIB-SEM) and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) for the identification, characterization and analysis of viruses, bacteria, fungi, plants, tissues and materials science samples.MINIMUM REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONSBachelor of Science (or equivalent) in a scientific discipline or engineering, and a minimum of 4 years of related experience.Proficient in both light and electron microscopy.Experience in specific techniques including embedding, fixing, sectioning, and staining of biological samples for scanning and/or transmission electron microscopy. Intermediate scientific proficiency in laboratory functions. Possesses the ability to identify issues with laboratory protocols, procedures, and experimental plans.Proficiency and clarity of oral and written communications are essential.Exemplary organizational skills with a proven track record of working effectively both independently and as a team player.Knowledge or experience with biocontainment facilities and procedures, laboratory safety, biosurety, and decontamination is desirable.Skills and experience to support laboratory activities and work in accordance with NBACC’s management system (e.g., ISO).Must be a citizen of the United States, able to obtain and maintain an interim secret clearance leading to a top-secret clearance, suitability for DHS, and a favorable adjudication of the Department of Justice (DoJ) for select agent access. Participation in the Immunization Program, Medical Surveillance Program and enrollment in the Personnel Reliability Program (PRP) is required. May be required to participate in NBACC’s alternative work and/or on-call schedule, dependent upon business needs.PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIESConducts microscopy for bioforensic casework at BSL-0 and BSL-2. Provides technical and laboratory expertise in the conduct of research, development and analysis to support the NBFAC mission.Prepares and characterizes viruses, bacteria, fungi, plants, tissues and materials science samples using various LM, Raman Spectroscopy, SEM, FIB-SEM, and TEM.Operates and maintains sample preparation equipment, numerous types of light microscopes, a SEM and a FIB-SEM.Accurately documents and maintains results, equipment, and reagents in a computerized Laboratory Information System (LIMS) and interprets data for the preparation of analytical reports.Supports assay development and execution. Supports the analysis and reporting of results and the development of laboratory protocols, methods, and procedures.Ability to cross-train with other NBFAC teams.Possesses the ability to work on multiple science tasks simultaneously, while performing assignments outside of area of expertise.Exercises judgment within generally defined practices and policies in selecting methods and techniques for obtaining solutions. Follows established procedures on routine work, requires instruction only on new assignments, and is self-sufficient in monitoring and reporting on quality, and compliance.Participates in the testing and evaluation of new technologies and protocols including writing and updating NBACC Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), work instructions and forms to improve NBACC’s ability to serve its customers. Identifies departures from the Quality Management System (QMS) and initiates actions to investigate and prevent such occurrences.With minimal supervision, operates, maintains, and characterizes the performance of equipment ensuring the reagents and supplies are maintained and used properly. Serves as a member of a team in developing, validating, and maintaining methods for identifying and characterizing biological threat agents.Must be a team player, communicate clearly, be open to hearing ideas and suggestions from others, diffuse situations, and exercise empathy and patience with colleagues.Must have the ability to multi-task, maintain composure under pressure, and utilize effective time management skills to prioritize tasks.Must be a self-starter driven by an eagerness to succeed, maintain flexibility, adapt to change in a productive and positive manner, learn new concepts, and utilize critical thinking to resolve complex problems.Maintains appropriate records.Performs other duties as assigned/authorized.
Job DescriptionJob DescriptionBACKGROUNDThe National Biodefense Analysis and Countermeasures Center (NBACC) is a one-of-a-kind facility located on Fort Detrick in Frederick MD and is dedicated to defending the nation against biological threats. Its work supports DHS and National biodefense preparedness planning, response, emerging threat characterization and bioforensic analyses. It is the first national laboratory created by DHS in response to biodefense gaps identified following the Amerithrax attacks of 2001 and has been operated by the Battelle National Biodefense Institute (BNBI) since 2006. Since its inception, NBACC and its staff have filled critical shortfalls in our scientific knowledge of biological agents needed to protect the public and defend the Nation from biological threats, whether naturally occurring, accidental, or deliberate and provided federal law enforcement with scientific data to support the investigation and attribution of biocrimes and protection of the US bioeconomy. NBACC includes two centers: the National Bioforensic Analysis Center (NBFAC), which conducts the technical analyses in support of federal law enforcement investigations, and the National Biological Threat Characterization Center (NBTCC), which conducts experiments and studies to obtain data required for a better understanding of biological vulnerabilities and hazards. Together these centers offer a unique national resource for understanding the risks posed by biological agents and emerging technologies to inform biodefense policy and response planning and the operational capability to support the investigation, prosecution, and prevention of biocrimes and bioterrorism.PRIMARY FUNCTIONThe NSM advises BNBI Leadership on all NBACC information systems security matters, and
ensures that NBACC IT Systems are compliant with Department of Homeland Security information security policy, rules, and requirements. The NSM serves as the principal advisor between the NBACC System Owner(s), Business Process Owners, Chief Information Security Officer (CISO), Information System Security Manager (ISSM), NBACC Information System Security Officers (ISSOs), other security practitioners, and key stakeholders. The NSM plays a critical role in ensuring an Information Security Program is implemented and maintained throughout NBACC. MINIMUM REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONSBachelor's degree, preferably in Computer and Information Systems related studies, and a minimum of 10 years of related experience are required. Supervisory experience is desirable.Certification as a CISSP (Certified Information System Security Professional) is preferred.Skills and experience to support laboratory activities and work in accordance with NBACC’s management system (e.g., ISO).Must be a citizen of the United States, able to obtain and maintain an interim secret clearance leading to a top-secret clearance and suitability for DHS. SCI Clearance may be required. Participation in the Immunization Program, Medical Surveillance Program, and/or enrollment in the Personnel Reliability Program (PRP) is required. May be required to participate in NBACC’s alternative work schedule and/or on-call schedule, dependent upon business needs.PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIESEnsures that IT security-related decisions and information, including updates to the 4300 series of IT security publications, are distributed to the ISSOs and other appropriate persons within the NBACC.Ensures that the IT Manager is kept apprised of all pertinent matters involving the security of IT systems.Approves and/or validates all NBACC IT system security reporting. Manages IT security resources including oversight and review of security requirements in funding documents.Manages ISSOs and ensures periodical tests of implemented security controls or systems.Ensures that an ISSO is appointed in writing by the System Owner for each IT system managed at the NBACC level.Develops and publishes procedures necessary to implement the requirements of DHS IT security policy within the NBACC.Evaluates proposed and completed modifications to all NBACC information systems and provides input on the impact of system security to the IT Manager. Acknowledges receipt of Information Security Vulnerability Management (ISVM) messages, reports compliance with requirements or notifies the granting of exceptions or waivers.Ensures adherence to the DHS Secure Baseline Configuration Guides.Ensures training and oversight for personnel with significant responsibilities for information security.Must be a team player, communicate clearly, be open to hearing ideas and suggestions from others, diffuse situations, and exercise empathy and patience with colleagues.Must have the ability to multi-task, maintain composure under pressure, and utilize effective time management skills to prioritize tasks.Must be a self-starter driven by an eagerness to succeed, maintain flexibility, adapt to change in a productive and positive manner, learn new concepts, and utilize critical thinking to resolve complex problems.Maintains appropriate records.Performs other duties as assigned/authorized.
Job DescriptionJob DescriptionBACKGROUNDThe National Biodefense Analysis and Countermeasures Center (NBACC) is a one-of-a-kind facility located on Fort Detrick in Frederick MD and is dedicated to defending the nation against biological threats. Its work supports DHS and National biodefense preparedness planning, response, emerging threat characterization and bioforensic analyses. It is the first national laboratory created by DHS in response to biodefense gaps identified following the Amerithrax attacks of 2001 and has been operated by the Battelle National Biodefense Institute (BNBI) since 2006. Since its inception, NBACC and its staff have filled critical shortfalls in our scientific knowledge of biological agents needed to protect the public and defend the Nation from biological threats, whether naturally occurring, accidental, or deliberate and provided federal law enforcement with scientific data to support the investigation and attribution of biocrimes and protection of the US bioeconomy.NBACC includes two centers: the National Bioforensic Analysis Center (NBFAC), which conducts the technical analyses in support of federal law enforcement investigations, and the National Biological Threat Characterization Center (NBTCC), which conducts experiments and studies to obtain data required for a better understanding of biological vulnerabilities and hazards. Together these centers offer a unique national resource for understanding the risks posed by biological agents and emerging technologies to inform biodefense policy and response planning and the operational capability to support the investigation, prosecution, and prevention of biocrimes and bioterrorism.PRIMARY FUNCTIONTo manage the high-performance computing (HPC) environment at the NBACC to facilitate the efficient and reproducible analysis of bioforensic samples.MINIMUM REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONSRequires a Bachelor of Science (or equivalent) in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Information Systems, Software Engineering, Bioinformatics, or a relevant computational discipline and 0-4 years of related experience.Advanced knowledge of Linux operating systems (e.g., RedHat/CentOS/Ubuntu).Strong proficiency with bash shell scripting and Linux administration tools.Preferred experience: cluster management and data systems (e.g. Ansible, SLURM); network storage technologies (e.g., NFS, RAID); hardware installation, maintenance, and replacement; high-speed networks; programming; relational databases (e.g., MySQL).Experience installing research-grade bioinformatics software is preferred.Ability to work on problems of moderate scope in which analysis of situation or data requires review of identifiable factors. Excellent oral and written communication skills and organizational skills.Proven track record of working effectively both independently and as a team player.Knowledge or experience with biocontainment facilities and procedures, laboratory safety, biosurety, and decontainment is desirable.Skills and experience to support laboratory activities and work in accordance with NBACC’s management system (e.g., ISO).Must be a citizen of the United States, able to obtain and maintain an interim secret clearance leading to a top secret clearance and suitability for DHS. Participation in the Immunization Program, Medical Surveillance Program, and/or enrollment in the Personnel Reliability Program (PRP) may be required, dependent upon position and/or business needs.May be required to participate in NBACC’s alternative work schedule and/or on-call schedule, dependent upon business needs. PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIESMember of management team for multiple (HPC) high-performance computing clusters. Manages servers, storage, security, networking, and system configurations.Identifies or develops software and hardware to support the HPC infrastructure and for the parallel analysis of massive bioinformatic datasets.Transfers data from NBACC laboratories to the HPC systems, downloads data from public repositories, manages local databases, and transforms data to necessary formats.Works with Bioinformatics group Principal Investigators, Engineers, and Analysts to anticipate long-term computing infrastructure needs and plans for solutions.Adapts quickly to new work assignments, performs assignments outside area of expertise, demonstrates technical proficiency, and manages resources efficiently.Receives limited instruction on daily work and general instructions on new assignments.Participates in the testing and evaluation of new technologies and protocols including writing and updating NBACC Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), work instructions and forms to improve NBACC's ability to serve its customers.Identifies departures from the Quality Management System (QMS) and initiates actions to investigate and prevent such occurrences.Operates, maintains, and characterizes the performance of equipment with minimal supervision.Hardware lifecycle management from procurement to disposition.Performs file backup and restore using Veritas NetBackup®.Must be a team player, communicate clearly, be open to hearing ideas and suggestions from others, diffuse situations, and exercise empathy and patience with colleagues.Must have the ability to multi-task, maintain composure under pressure, and utilize effective time management skills to prioritize tasks.Must be a self-starter driven by an eagerness to succeed, maintain flexibility, adapt to change in a productive and positive manner, learn new concepts, and utilize critical thinking to resolve complex problems.Maintains appropriate records.Performs other duties as assigned/authorized.
Job DescriptionJob DescriptionBACKGROUND
The National Biodefense Analysis and Countermeasures Center (NBACC) is a one-of-a-kind facility located on Fort Detrick in Frederick MD and is dedicated to defending the nation against biological threats. Its work supports DHS and National biodefense preparedness planning, response, emerging threat characterization and bioforensic analyses. It is the first national laboratory created by DHS in response to biodefense gaps identified following the Amerithrax attacks of 2001 and has been operated by the Battelle National Biodefense Institute (BNBI) since 2006. Since its inception, NBACC and its staff have filled critical shortfalls in our scientific knowledge of biological agents needed to protect the public and defend the Nation from biological threats, whether naturally occurring, accidental, or deliberate and provided federal law enforcement with scientific data to support the investigation and attribution of biocrimes and protection of the US bioeconomy.
NBACC includes two centers: the National Bioforensic Analysis Center (NBFAC), which conducts the technical analyses in support of federal law enforcement investigations, and the National Biological Threat Characterization Center (NBTCC), which conducts experiments and studies to obtain data required for a better understanding of biological vulnerabilities and hazards. Together these centers offer a unique national resource for understanding the risks posed by biological agents and emerging technologies to inform biodefense policy and response planning and the operational capability to support the investigation, prosecution, and prevention of biocrimes and bioterrorism.
PRIMARY FUNCTION
Day-to-day management of Cisco switches, the phone system, and other network infrastructure components controlled by NBACC. Provides support for network infrastructure not controlled by NBACC. Tasks Back-up and disaster recovery, cabling, device hardening, and vulnerability management of network infrastructure devices. Also involved with many aspects of Windows servers including OS and application management as well as ticket escalation from Service Desk.
MINIMUM REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
• A bachelors degree with a minimum of 0-4 years of Cisco device work experience is required.
• Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) or more advanced Cisco certification such as CCNP Enterprise are required.
• Advanced knowledge of and troubleshooting experience with Cisco switches and LAN/WAN configuration.
• Experience with Cisco Firepower firewall/VPN is a plus.
• Possesses knowledge of network security, understanding of vulnerabilities and countermeasures.
• Knowledge of and troubleshooting experience with Microsoft and VMware servers is desired.
• Experience with Microsoft Exchange, Microsoft SQL Server, Microsoft and other webservers, Network Attached Storage, and VoIP are a plus.
• Working knowledge of common operating systems and software applications.
• Effectively communicates issues and resolutions to all levels of the organization.
• Ability to keep confidentiality of sensitive information.
• Good interpersonal skills and ability to work well with team members.
• Ability to provide technical support over the phone or in online meetings. Professional demeanor and earlier customer service experience are strongly desired.
• Good problem-solving skills. Ability to handle constantly changing flow of tasks, be able to multitask effectively during busy times, and exercise patience and professionalism during stressful situations.
• Ability to work responsibly with or without direct supervision.
• Skills and experience to support laboratory activities and work in accordance with NBACC’s management system (e.g., ISO).
• Must be a citizen of the United States, able to obtain and maintain an interim secret clearance leading to a top-secret clearance and suitability for DHS.
• Participation in the Immunization Program, Medical Surveillance Program and/or enrollment in the Personnel Reliability Program (PRP) may be required, dependent upon position and/or business needs.
• May be required to participate in NBACC’s alternative work schedule and/or on-call schedule, dependent upon business needs.
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES
• Deploys and administers Cisco Firepower firewall/VPN, Cisco switches, and other network devices in a secure environment.
• Manages voice telecommunications system.
• Monitors system logs/e-mail alerts and activity on network devices and troubleshoots problems with network connectivity.
• Performs Cisco IOS and other network device patching/upgrades, device hardening, and helps to maintain certification and accreditation of the systems.
• Follows the change management process when making changes to the systems/major applications.
• Follows and keeps existing documentation updated and creates documentation for new procedures.
• Responds to tickets escalated from the first level Service Desk and other IT teams.
• Attends and actively takes part in weekly meetings. Coordinates with other staff engaged in similar tasks.
• Helps the rest of the team with management of Microsoft and VMware servers.
• Maintains a broad knowledge of network devices and applications.
• Must be a team player, communicate clearly, be open to hearing ideas and suggestions from others, diffuse situations, and exercise empathy and patience with colleagues.
• Must have the ability to multi-task, maintain composure under pressure, and utilize effective time management skills to prioritize tasks.
• Must be a self-starter driven by an eagerness to succeed, maintain flexibility, adapt to change in a productive and positive manner, learn new concepts, and utilize critical thinking to resolve complex problems.
• Maintains appropriate records.
• Performs other duties as assigned/authorized.
