Launch Your Career as a Safety and Occupational Health Specialist with OSHA
Protecting the American workforce is a noble mission that requires dedication, expertise, and a commitment to public service. The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL), specifically through the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), is currently seeking highly qualified individuals to serve as Safety and Occupational Health Specialists. With over 100 vacancies, this is a significant opportunity to contribute to safer working conditions across the United States.
Job Responsibilities
Your duties will evolve as you progress from GS-07 through the full performance level of GS-12. Responsibilities include:
- Conducting Inspections: Surveying worksites, machinery, and environmental conditions for potential hazards.
- Hazard Analysis: Evaluating industrial processes to determine the probability and severity of potential injuries.
- Outreach: Educating employers and employees on OSHA regulations and best practices.
- Legal Documentation: Preparing findings to support cases for compliance, which may include testimony before administrative law judges.
| Level | Key Focus |
|---|---|
| GS-07 | Assisting with inspections and data recording |
| GS-09 | Conducting targeted outreach and assisting with reviews |
| GS-11 | Performing independent inspections in construction/maritime/industry |
| GS-12 | Managing complex investigations and providing expert testimony |
Requirements and Qualifications
Candidates must meet specific specialized experience requirements or educational benchmarks. A degree in a safety or occupational health field—or a related field with at least 24 semester hours in relevant subjects like toxicology, industrial hygiene, or engineering—is highly valued. Applicants must possess strong attention to detail, excellent communication skills, and the ability to maintain integrity in high-pressure environments.
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $50,460 to $137,128 per year, depending on the grade level and location. Federal employees also enjoy comprehensive benefits, including:
- Health and Life Insurance
- Thrift Savings Plan (401k equivalent)
- Generous Paid Time Off
- Structured Career Progression
Application Tips
Success in your application starts with precision. Ensure your resume is limited to two pages and clearly lists the month, year, and hours worked for all relevant experience. Don't forget to complete your USA Hire Assessment within the two-day deadline, as this is a mandatory step in the process.
If you are ready to make a tangible difference in the safety of American workers, apply to the Safety and Occupational Health Specialist role today. This role provides stability, professional growth, and the chance to serve the public in a meaningful capacity.
Why This Safety And Occupational Health Specialist Job Matters
Protect the workforce of tomorrow: Join the Department of Labor as a Safety and Occupational Health Specialist and ensure safe, fair, and equitable workplaces across America.
Safety And Occupational Health Specialist Job Overview
The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) is hiring for the position of Safety and Occupational Health Specialist. This role is essential to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) mission, which centers on safeguarding American workers. You will join a dedicated team of professionals responsible for conducting safety inspections, evaluating hazards, and ensuring compliance with federal labor standards. With over 100 vacancies available across multiple locations, this is a unique opportunity to build a meaningful career in public service at the federal level.
Requirements for Safety And Occupational Health Specialist
- U.S. Citizenship is required.
- Must undergo a drug test as part of the hiring process.
- Background investigation for access to DOL facilities and systems is mandatory.
- Must maintain professional conduct during a one-year probationary period.
- If using education to qualify, must submit all applicable unofficial transcripts.
- Resume must be limited to two pages per recent merit hiring guidelines.
- Specialized experience requirements vary by grade level (GS-07 through GS-12).
Preferred Qualifications for Safety And Occupational Health Specialist
- Professional certification such as Certified Safety Professional (CSP).
- Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH) or Certified Health Physicist (CHP) credentials.
- Advanced graduate degree in safety, occupational health, or related fields.
- Experience in industrial hygiene, engineering, or occupational medicine.
- Demonstrated ability to perform complex inspections and hazard analysis.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal employee health and life insurance options.
- ✓Retirement savings via the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- ✓Paid federal holidays, vacation time, and sick leave.
- ✓Flexible work arrangements including potential telework eligibility.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training.
- ✓Recruitment incentives may be offered at management discretion.
💡 How to Apply Safety And Occupational Health Specialist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Safety And Occupational Health Specialist Job
- Create a profile on USAJOBS.gov and upload a two-page resume.
- Search for the job announcement and click the Apply button to start the process.
- Complete the application steps via the USAJOBS portal.
- Proceed to the Department of Labor (DOL) specific site to answer vacancy questions and upload required documents.
- Complete the USA Hire Assessment within 2 calendar days of your application date.
- Review your application for completion and submit before the cutoff date.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume includes the start and end dates (month/year) and hours worked per week for every position.
- Preview the application questions before starting to ensure your resume explicitly highlights the required competencies.
- Do not upload password-protected documents as they cannot be processed.
- Use the 'Track this application' feature in your dashboard to monitor status and assessment requirements.
- Double-check that you have attached your unofficial transcripts if you are relying on education for eligibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work remotely in this position?
No, this is not a remote work position. Employees are expected to report to their assigned office location, though they may be eligible for telework participation as permitted by DOL policy.
What is the full performance level of this job?
The full performance level for this position is the GS-12 grade level.
How many vacancies are available?
There are approximately 102 vacancies available across various locations.
Job from Occupational Safety And Health Administration
The Department of Labor is dedicated to the welfare of job seekers and workers. By ensuring that workplaces adhere to rigorous safety standards, the DOL plays a critical role in the American economy. As a member of OSHA, you will be on the front lines of injury prevention, helping to reduce the frequency and severity of workplace accidents through education, inspection, and enforcement.