Become an Industrial Hygienist for the Veterans Health Administration
The South Texas Veterans Healthcare System is currently seeking a highly motivated Industrial Hygienist to serve as our Green Environmental Management System (GEMS) Coordinator. This position is a cornerstone of our efforts to ensure a safe, sustainable, and compliant environment for our Veterans and clinical staff in Kerrville, Texas. If you are passionate about occupational health and environmental stewardship, this role offers the chance to perform high-impact work that directly contributes to the VA’s mission of excellence.
Job Responsibilities
As the GEMS Coordinator, your day-to-day will involve high-level coordination and technical oversight. Key responsibilities include:
- Program Management: Developing and implementing environmental programs aligned with national and state policy.
- Regulatory Compliance: Ensuring decontamination teams adhere to OSHA, EPA, and Joint Commission standards.
- Site Inspections: Evaluating new construction and facility modifications to minimize health risks.
- Hazardous Waste: Overseeing the disposal of hazardous materials according to strict environmental guidelines.
- Respiratory Protection: Managing the fit-testing, training, and documentation for respiratory programs.
- Budgeting: Preparing and presenting budgetary requirements for environmental safety equipment.
Requirements
To qualify for this position, candidates must meet specific criteria:
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Education: A degree in Industrial Hygiene, Occupational Health, or a related science field (accredited by the U.S. Department of Education).
- Experience: One year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade in federal service.
- Physical Fitness: Ability to handle moderate physical tasks such as lifting 44 pounds or conducting on-site inspections.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary Range | $75,776 - $98,514 |
| Location | Kerrville, TX |
| Series | 0690 (Industrial Hygiene) |
| Closing Date | 09/07/2026 |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive salary ranging from $75,776 to $98,514 per year. This scale reflects the responsibilities associated with the GS-9/11 grade structure and is adjusted based on federal pay schedules.
Benefits
Working for the VA comes with a robust benefits package, including:
- Comprehensive health and life insurance.
- Generous vacation leave and federal holidays.
- Participation in a stable federal retirement pension.
- Access to professional development programs.
Application Tips
- Customize Your Resume: Clearly list your specific experience with instrument calibration and waste management.
- Documentation is Key: Ensure your transcript is attached if you are using education to qualify.
- Apply Early: Don't wait until the last minute, as the application process involves an occupational questionnaire that may take time to complete.
Serving as an Industrial Hygienist for the VA is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the environment and the Veterans we serve. If you meet the qualifications, we invite you to apply and join our team in Kerrville.
Why This Industrial Hygienist (Gems) Job Matters
Protect our heroes and the environment: Join the South Texas Veterans Healthcare System as an Industrial Hygienist and lead critical sustainability and safety initiatives.
Industrial Hygienist (Gems) Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a dedicated Industrial Hygienist to serve as the Green Environmental Management System (GEMS) Coordinator in Kerrville, Texas. In this vital role, you will oversee environmental compliance, manage hazardous waste programs, and ensure the safety of our healthcare environments. You will act as the primary technical authority for respiratory protection, decontamination standards, and pollution prevention, directly impacting the well-being of the Veterans and staff who depend on our facilities. This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of environmental health within one of the nation's most respected healthcare organizations.
Requirements for Industrial Hygienist (Gems)
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Must possess a relevant bachelor's or graduate degree in Industrial Hygiene, Occupational Health, or a related science (or equivalent professional certification).
- Must be able to pass a background/security investigation.
- Males born after 12/31/1959 must be registered with the Selective Service.
- Must participate in the seasonal influenza vaccination program.
- Must meet Time-In-Grade requirements for current federal employees.
- Ability to perform physical tasks such as moderate lifting (15-44 lbs), walking, standing, and climbing.
Preferred Qualifications for Industrial Hygienist (Gems)
- Professional certification from the American Board of Industrial Hygiene (ABIH).
- Extensive knowledge of EPA standards, OSHA regulations, and Joint Commission standards.
- Direct experience managing hospital-based decontamination teams.
- Experience in developing and implementing respiratory protection programs.
- Advanced graduate education in environmental health or safety sciences.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options
- ✓Generous paid vacation and sick leave
- ✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS)
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training
- ✓Eligibility for student loan repayment programs (where applicable)
- ✓Competitive salary based on GS-scale step increases
- ✓Flexible work-life balance
💡 How to Apply Industrial Hygienist (Gems) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Industrial Hygienist (Gems) Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Review your resume to ensure it clearly details your specialized experience, including hours worked per week.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Attach all required documentation, including transcripts and SF-50 forms if applicable.
- Submit your application package before the closing date of 09/07/2026.
💡 General Tips
- Be specific about your duties in your resume; do not leave the review board to make assumptions.
- Ensure your transcript clearly indicates your degree and coursework to meet the Individual Occupational Requirements.
- Check your application status regularly through your USAJOBS portal.
- If you are a current federal employee, ensure your most recent SF-50 clearly demonstrates your time-in-grade eligibility.
- Double-check that all required fields in the occupational questionnaire are complete before clicking submit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a remote position?
No, this is a permanent, in-person position located in Kerrville, Texas, with occasional travel to other facilities such as those in San Antonio.
What is the Green Environmental Management System (GEMS) program?
The GEMS program is the VA’s strategy for implementing an environmental management system to ensure sustainable operations, pollution prevention, and compliance with all federal and state environmental laws.
Are there recruitment incentives for this role?
Yes, recruitment or relocation incentives are authorized for this position for qualified candidates.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is dedicated to providing compassionate care to those who have served in our nation's military. Our core values—Integrity, Commitment, Advocacy, Respect, and Excellence (I CARE)—guide every aspect of our work. As a VA professional, you are part of a massive, supportive team that prioritizes the health and dignity of our nation's heroes.