Launch Your Career as an Industrial Hygienist with the VA
Are you a safety-focused professional looking to combine your technical expertise with a meaningful mission? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is looking for a skilled Industrial Hygienist to serve within the VA Portland Health Care System in Vancouver, Washington. This role is pivotal in safeguarding the health of both the staff who care for our veterans and the veterans themselves.
Job Responsibilities
As an Industrial Hygienist, you will manage programs designed to identify and mitigate physical, chemical, and biological hazards. Your daily responsibilities will include:
- Conducting detailed surveys and inspections of laboratories, surgical suites, and industrial shops.
- Analyzing findings to recommend corrective actions and safety procedure updates.
- Managing hazardous waste and ensuring full compliance with EPA and state standards.
- Drafting technical reports and maintaining medical documentation related to workplace exposures.
Comparison of Grade Levels
| Feature | GS-9 Level | GS-11 Level |
|---|---|---|
| Experience Requirement | Entry to mid-level specialized experience | Advanced/Independent professional experience |
| Complexity | Learner/Progressive development | Full performance/Independent program oversight |
| Responsibility | Assisted analysis and data collection | Full program design and complex hazard mitigation |
Requirements
To be eligible for this position, you must be a U.S. citizen and meet the specific educational and experience requirements outlined by the Office of Personnel Management. You must submit a two-page resume and complete all required online assessments during the application process.
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive federal salary ranging from $66,505 to $104,610 per year, commensurate with your experience and qualifications.
Benefits
Employees of the Department of Veterans Affairs receive a robust benefits package, including:
- Health and life insurance plans.
- Federal retirement savings options.
- Paid annual and sick leave.
- Potential for relocation incentives if you are a highly qualified candidate.
Application Tips
- Respect the Limit: Ensure your resume is exactly two pages or less.
- Be Quantifiable: Clearly list your hours per week for every job mentioned to ensure your experience is credited correctly.
- Use the Builder: The USAJOBS resume builder is the best tool to ensure you don't miss any required data fields.
Serving as an Industrial Hygienist at the VA offers the unique opportunity to protect the health of your community while building a stable federal career. Apply today to help us continue providing world-class care to our nation's veterans.
Why This Industrial Hygienist Job Matters
Protect the health of those who served: Join the VA Portland Health Care System as an Industrial Hygienist and make a tangible impact on veteran safety.
Industrial Hygienist Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a dedicated Industrial Hygienist to join the VA Portland Health Care System in Vancouver, Washington. In this role, you will play a critical part in identifying, evaluating, and mitigating environmental and occupational hazards. Whether you are conducting air quality assessments, managing hazardous waste, or developing safety protocols, your work will directly contribute to a safer, healthier environment for both staff and the veterans we serve.
Requirements for Industrial Hygienist
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Completion of required online assessments.
- Must pass a background and security investigation.
- Participation in the annual seasonal influenza vaccination program.
- Subject to a one-year probationary period.
- Registration with the Selective Service for males born after 12/31/1959.
- Must possess a relevant degree in industrial hygiene, engineering, or life/physical sciences meeting specific credit hour requirements, or hold valid certification from the Board for Global EHS Credentialing.
Preferred Qualifications for Industrial Hygienist
- Three years of professional experience as an Industrial Hygienist.
- Direct experience working within a hospital or clinical setting.
- Demonstrated ability to develop and manage comprehensive industrial hygiene programs.
- Expertise in hazardous material management, respiratory protection, and environmental monitoring.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive health insurance options.
- ✓Generous paid time off, including federal holidays and sick leave.
- ✓Federal retirement benefits, including pension and Thrift Savings Plan (401k equivalent).
- ✓Recruitment or relocation incentives may be available for highly qualified candidates.
- ✓Ongoing professional development and training opportunities.
💡 How to Apply Industrial Hygienist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Industrial Hygienist Job
- Create or update your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume that does not exceed two pages.
- Gather necessary documentation, including transcripts and SF-50s if applicable.
- Submit your application and required documents via the online portal.
- Complete the required online assessment when prompted.
- Monitor your application status through your USAJOBS account.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume to two pages or less to comply with federal merit hiring standards.
- Be specific about your work history: include dates (month/year), duties, and average hours worked per week.
- Use the USAJOBS resume builder to ensure all necessary fields are captured correctly.
- Save your resume as a PDF to preserve formatting.
- Review the job announcement thoroughly before starting the assessment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a remote position?
No, this is an on-site position based in Vancouver, Washington.
Are there opportunities for advancement?
Yes, this position serves as a career ladder from GS-9 to GS-11, offering promotion potential as you meet performance and regulatory requirements.
What happens after I apply?
Once the vacancy closes, your application will be evaluated for eligibility and qualifications. Referred candidates may be contacted for an interview.
Do I need a specific degree?
Yes, candidates must have an accredited degree in industrial hygiene, engineering, or a related science that includes specific chemistry credit requirements.
What is the vaccination requirement?
All VA health care personnel must participate in the annual seasonal influenza vaccination program as a condition of employment.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated health care system in the United States, providing care at 1,300 health care facilities to over 9 million veterans each year. By joining the VA, you become part of a dedicated team committed to honoring President Lincoln’s promise to support those who have served in our nation’s military.