Lead Environmental Progress: Supervisory Scientist Opportunities at the EPA
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) stands at the forefront of protecting human health and our natural world. We are currently seeking a visionary leader to serve as a Supervisory Biologist, Toxicologist, Chemical Engineer, Physical Scientist, or Chemist. This is a high-impact, GS-15 level role designed for professionals ready to guide scientific excellence and regulatory integrity.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will:
- Lead and Empower: Manage branch activities, ensuring your team receives the support and guidance needed to meet organizational goals.
- Shape Policy: Serve as a subject matter expert, influencing the development of regulatory guidance and science policies.
- Scientific Oversight: Plan and coordinate major scientific peer reviews, bridging the gap between complex data and actionable policy.
- Foster Partnerships: Build and maintain collaborative relationships with external stakeholders, committees, and the broader scientific community.
Requirements
To qualify for this position, candidates must meet the educational requirements for their specific series (Biologist, Toxicologist, Engineer, Physical Scientist, or Chemist) and possess at least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-14 level.
Comparison Table: Qualifications Overview
| Professional Field | Primary Educational Requirement |
|---|---|
| Toxicology | Degree in Toxicology/Biological Science + 30 sem hrs Chemistry |
| Chemical Engineering | Professional Engineering Degree or Equivalent Training |
| Chemistry | Degree in Physical Science + 30 sem hrs Chemistry + Calculus/Physics |
| Physical Scientist | Degree in Physical Science/Engineering + 24 sem hrs Science |
Salary Overview
This position is compensated at the GS-15 level, with an annual salary range of $154,100 to $197,200, depending on location and qualifications.
Benefits
- Comprehensive Health Insurance
- Federal Retirement Plans
- Professional Leadership Development
- Situational Telework Options
Application Tips
- Respect the Limit: Your resume must be two pages or less. This is non-negotiable.
- Be Specific: Use clear dates (MM/DD/YY) to showcase your leadership and technical experience.
- Track Progress: Use your USAJOBS account to monitor your application status at every touchpoint.
If you are an experienced scientific leader looking to make a lasting impact on our nation’s environmental standards, we encourage you to apply. This role offers the opportunity to combine your technical expertise with administrative leadership at the highest levels of the EPA.
Why This Supervisory Biologist/Toxicologist/Chemical Engineer/Physical Scientist/Chemist Job Matters
Shape the future of chemical safety at the EPA. We are looking for an experienced scientific leader to oversee high-impact regulatory initiatives and protect public health.
Supervisory Biologist/Toxicologist/Chemical Engineer/Physical Scientist/Chemist Job Overview
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is seeking a highly skilled professional to serve as a Supervisory Biologist, Toxicologist, Chemical Engineer, Physical Scientist, or Chemist within the Office of Chemical Safety and Pollution Prevention. This leadership role involves directing branch activities, managing scientific peer reviews, and serving as a critical subject matter expert to ensure compliance with national environmental policies. You will work within the Science Advisory Committees Branch to influence mission-critical operations and foster collaboration across the scientific community.
Requirements for Supervisory Biologist/Toxicologist/Chemical Engineer/Physical Scientist/Chemist
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Must meet time-in-grade requirements within 30 days of the closing date.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a High Risk background investigation clearance.
- Commitment to completing a one-year supervisory or managerial probationary period.
- Agreement to participate in the EPA Successful Leaders Program.
- Submission of a Confidential Financial Disclosure report upon hiring and annually thereafter.
- Maximum two-page resume limit strictly enforced.
Preferred Qualifications for Supervisory Biologist/Toxicologist/Chemical Engineer/Physical Scientist/Chemist
- Demonstrated experience at the GS-14 level (or equivalent) in chemical assessment, regulation, or risk management.
- Proven track record in leadership, team oversight, and establishing performance metrics.
- Expertise in coordinating complex scientific peer reviews and science policy development.
- Strong consultation skills for managing high-level internal and external stakeholder partnerships.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary structure
- ✓Situational telework eligibility
- ✓Comprehensive health and life insurance options
- ✓Federal retirement benefits
- ✓Opportunities for professional development through the Successful Leaders Program
- ✓Paid vacation and sick leave
💡 How to Apply Supervisory Biologist/Toxicologist/Chemical Engineer/Physical Scientist/Chemist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Supervisory Biologist/Toxicologist/Chemical Engineer/Physical Scientist/Chemist Job
- Register for a USAJOBS account if you do not already have one.
- Review the specific education and experience requirements for your chosen series (Biologist, Toxicologist, etc.).
- Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less.
- Submit your complete application package via the USAJOBS portal by the deadline.
- Complete the online questionnaire as part of the application.
- Upload all required supporting documents, including transcripts and SF-50 forms.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume highlights specific dates and accomplishments related to leadership and technical expertise.
- Do not exceed the two-page limit; excess pages will not be reviewed.
- Select all job series for which you are qualified to maximize your chances of consideration.
- Verify your eligibility for federal employment using your most recent SF-50.
- Check your application status regularly through your USAJOBS account dashboard.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work remotely for this position?
This position is office-centered, requiring physical presence at one of the duty stations (Washington, D.C., Durham, NC, or Cincinnati, OH). Situational telework may be approved based on agency policy.
What happens if my resume is longer than two pages?
Your application will be removed from consideration. The two-page limit is strictly enforced by the automated system.
Are relocation expenses covered?
No, relocation, travel, and transportation expenses are not paid by the EPA for this position.
What is the security level for this role?
This position is designated as High Risk and requires a background investigation.
Can I apply if I am not currently a federal employee?
Please refer to the 'Who May Apply' section in the formal announcement to check hiring path eligibility.
Job from Environmental Protection Agency
The Office of Chemical Safety and Pollution Prevention (OCSPP) handles the vital tasks of assessing chemical risks and ensuring the safe use of substances in our environment. Joining the EPA means becoming part of a diverse community of innovators, researchers, and administrators dedicated to the public good. We value mission-driven individuals who are passionate about the rule of law and the scientific rigor required to keep our nation safe.