Division of Field Science, Duties and Functions

 

1. Advises the Director, Office of Regional Operations, concerning the management of the agency's overall field scientific resources (including national experts) to assure their coordinated, efficient, and effective use; provides coordination between field and Headquarters scientific programs.
2. Represents the Director, Office of Regional Operations, on top level scientific policy and program matters.
3. Identifies goals and objectives for field scientific activities; develops policies and procedures as they relate to these activities; coordinates and develops manuals on field laboratory operating and technical procedures.
4. Develops control procedures for field laboratory operations and evaluates the adequacy and effectiveness of field scientific activities through on-site visits.
5. Manages the field laboratory research programs; identifies the need for, develops, tests, evaluates, and/or arranges for the adoption of new field equipment, techniques, and methodology.
6. Participates in the determination of long- and short-range field scientific facility needs.
7. Coordinates research on the applicability of new, complex, scientific instruments for field analyses; designs instrument systems.
8. Participates in the formulation and evaluation of training and career development plans for field scientists.
9. Provides scientific and analytical expertise related to laboratory automation, analysis, and process control and acquisition of automated data laboratory instruments.
10. Develops and maintains liaison with outstanding scientists to assure the moat effective use of field scientific resources.
11. Develops and/or reviews the scientific and technical aspects of environmental impact Statements.
12. Coordinates the development and audits the implementation of safety programs in field laboratories.