Pursue a Rewarding Career as a Psychologist with the FAA
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is responsible for the safety and efficiency of the most complex aerospace system in the world. As the industry evolves with new technologies—from electric aircraft to autonomous systems—our need for expert behavioral insights grows. We are currently inviting applications for Psychologists (0180 series) to join our Aviation Safety (AVS) organization and help us navigate the human side of aviation.
Job Responsibilities
As an FAA Psychologist, your work will be diverse and highly impactful. Core responsibilities include:
- Experimental Research: Systematically observing behavior to develop scientific laws or practical applications.
- Human Factors Integration: Applying psychological theories to solve aviation-related problems.
- Consultative Services: Providing training on psychological methods to advance safety protocols.
Role Comparison Table
| Role Focus | Primary Objective | Typical Tasks |
|---|---|---|
| Research | Scientific Discovery | Developing models, publishing findings, testing simulators |
| Consultation | Practical Application | Training staff, climate management, performance reviews |
| Certification | Regulatory Compliance | Ensuring flight deck displays meet human factors standards |
Requirements
This position carries a positive education requirement. You must hold a 4-year degree in Psychology. For specific grades, the following are required:
- Clinical Psychology: A doctoral degree (Ph.D. or equivalent) is required for grades FV-H and above.
- Counseling Psychology: Two years of graduate study or a master's degree is required for grades FV-G and above.
Applicants must substantiate their work history to qualify for levels ranging from FV-H to FV-K.
Salary Overview
Positions are categorized under the FAA Core Compensation plan. Pay ranges from $64,308 to $173,980 per year, depending on the specific pay band and qualifications of the selected candidate.
Benefits
Employees enjoy a robust federal benefits package, including:
- Federal retirement plans (FERS).
- Comprehensive health insurance.
- Paid annual and sick leave.
- Professional development opportunities.
Application Tips
To stand out, we encourage you to use the USAJobs resume builder. Limit your resume to two pages and ensure every entry includes your specific duties, dates of employment, and hours worked. Please remember that all education must be verified via transcripts uploaded by the closing date.
If you are a dedicated psychologist with a passion for safety, the FAA offers a career path that is as challenging as it is rewarding. Submit your resume today to be considered for current and future opportunities within our elite team.
Why This Public Notice For Psychology (Direct Hire) Job Matters
Join the Federal Aviation Administration as a Psychologist and directly influence the safety, efficiency, and future of the global aerospace system.
Public Notice For Psychology (Direct Hire) Job Overview
The FAA is seeking skilled Psychologists (0180 series) to join our Aviation Safety (AVS) organization. This public notice functions as a resume repository for various positions across the FAA. You will apply psychological principles, research methods, and human factors data to solve real-world problems in aviation environments, ranging from human factors evaluations to behavioral research and training development.
Requirements for Public Notice For Psychology (Direct Hire)
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Completion of a 4-year degree (Bachelor's or higher) with a major in Psychology.
- Additional graduate study requirements apply for specific Clinical or Counseling Psychology specializations.
- Must submit academic transcripts by the closing date to verify positive education requirements.
- Minimum of one year of specialized experience at the next lower grade level.
- Possession of required licensure or board certification as applicable to the specific role.
Preferred Qualifications for Public Notice For Psychology (Direct Hire)
- Experience in human factors research, including the design and execution of research plans.
- Proficiency in advanced statistical analysis and data modeling.
- Expertise in aviation-related human factors regulations (FAR 23/25/29).
- Experience in personality assessment tools (e.g., MMPI-2) or neuropsychological testing.
- Background in Human Intervention Motivation Study (HIMS) programs.
- Proven track record of publishing scientific articles in peer-reviewed journals.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive Federal health, dental, and vision insurance packages.
- ✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- ✓Generous annual leave and sick leave accrual, with potential for enhanced leave for prior service.
- ✓Opportunities for professional growth within a diverse organization of 45,000+ employees.
- ✓Flexible work arrangements and potential for telework.
💡 How to Apply Public Notice For Psychology (Direct Hire) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Public Notice For Psychology (Direct Hire) Job
- Create a profile and resume on the USAJobs platform.
- Upload all required college transcripts clearly displaying school name, degree, and coursework.
- Submit your online application through the FAA-specific portal.
- Complete any required competency assessments requested by the HR office.
- Resubmit your application if any updates are made during the open period.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume limited to two pages.
- Use the USAJobs resume builder to ensure all required fields are included.
- Clearly map your work history to the specific specialized experience described in the announcement.
- Ensure all contact information and hourly commitments are explicitly stated for each position.
- Submit documentation early to avoid last-minute technical delays.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a 'resume repository' public notice mean?
It means the FAA collects resumes for future hiring needs. You may not be contacted immediately, but your information will be available to hiring managers when relevant roles open.
Are transcripts mandatory even for experienced applicants?
Yes. This position has a 'positive education requirement,' meaning your credentials must be verified through official transcripts before you can be considered for the 180 series.
Can I apply if I am not a U.S. citizen?
No. The Federal Aviation Administration is currently only accepting applications from U.S. citizens.
How do I know if my foreign education is accepted?
You must provide an evaluation from a private professional organization specializing in foreign education credentials to prove equivalency to an American degree.
Will I be interviewed if I meet the requirements?
Not necessarily. Qualified candidates are referred to hiring managers, and interviews are conducted at the discretion of the organization.
Job from Federal Aviation Administration
At the FAA, our mission extends beyond the runway. With a diverse workforce of over 45,000 professionals, we lead the charge in research, engineering, and policy development. Working here means contributing to a safer global transportation network and tackling the challenges of tomorrow's aerospace environment.