Advance Scientific Integrity: Become a Bureau Approving Official at the USGS
The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) plays a pivotal role in the nation’s scientific landscape, providing unbiased information to understand our planet. We are currently looking for a seasoned professional to join the Office of Science Quality and Integrity (OSQI). This interdisciplinary role is perfect for experts in biology, hydrology, geology, or cartography who are ready to transition into a high-impact position of scientific governance.
Job Responsibilities
As a Bureau Approving Official, your primary focus is on the integrity of scientific products. Your daily tasks will include:
- Reviewing Technical Products: Assessing interpretive content across various media for scientific quality.
- Policy Guidance: Acting as the first point of contact and final authority on Fundamental Science Practices (FSP).
- Strategic Development: Collaborating with the Executive Leadership Team to improve agency standards.
- Mentorship: Advising supervisors and researchers on how to strengthen and refine their scientific output.
Requirements
This is a senior-level position (GS-14). To be considered, candidates must:
- Hold a degree in a relevant discipline (Biology, Hydrology, Geology, or Cartography).
- Possess at least one year of professional experience at the GS-13 level.
- Demonstrate expert-level knowledge of scientific publishing and technical review processes.
Salary Overview
The salary for this position is highly competitive, reflecting the senior nature of the work.
| Pay Level | Annual Salary Range |
|---|---|
| GS-14 | $125,776 - $197,200 |
Note: Exact salary is determined by the selected duty location.
Benefits
Employees of the USGS enjoy a robust federal benefits package:
- Retirement: Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- Insurance: Options for comprehensive health, life, dental, and vision insurance.
- Leave: Generous annual leave, sick leave, and paid federal holidays.
- Flexibility: Opportunities for telework consistent with Department of the Interior policies.
Application Tips
To stand out, your application must clearly articulate your experience with peer review and policy implementation. Remember that the resume limit is strictly two pages. Ensure that all your accomplishments are supported by the provided resume and, where applicable, by performance appraisals and awards from the last five years.
This role offers a unique opportunity to shape the standards of a premier scientific bureau. If you are passionate about scientific integrity and leadership, we encourage you to apply by the closing date.
Why This Interdisciplinary Biologist/Hydrologist/Geologist/Cartographer Job Matters
Elevate your career as a Bureau Approving Official with the USGS and shape the future of federal scientific integrity.
Interdisciplinary Biologist/Hydrologist/Geologist/Cartographer Job Overview
The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) is seeking a highly skilled Interdisciplinary Scientist to serve as a Bureau Approving Official. This leadership role, based within the Office of Science Quality and Integrity, focuses on maintaining the highest standards for technical interpretive information products. You will act as a primary authority on Fundamental Science Practices, guiding internal stakeholders to ensure that scientific output is both rigorous and consistent with agency policy.
Requirements for Interdisciplinary Biologist/Hydrologist/Geologist/Cartographer
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Must meet specific basic education requirements (degree in appropriate biological, physical, or geological science).
- One year of professional experience equivalent to the GS-13 level in a federal setting.
- Ability to serve a one-year probationary period.
- Must undergo and successfully pass a background security investigation.
- Submission of a resume not exceeding two pages.
- Ability to travel as required, necessitating the use of a government charge card.
Preferred Qualifications for Interdisciplinary Biologist/Hydrologist/Geologist/Cartographer
- Proven experience providing authoritative guidance on scientific policy and standards.
- Extensive background in peer-reviewing complex interpretive content.
- Demonstrated ability to resolve multifaceted scientific review issues.
- Experience in training and mentoring staff on Fundamental Science Practices.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) participation
- ✓Comprehensive health, dental, vision, and life insurance
- ✓Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays
- ✓Flexible Spending Accounts
- ✓Telework eligibility (subject to supervisor approval)
💡 How to Apply Interdisciplinary Biologist/Hydrologist/Geologist/Cartographer Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Interdisciplinary Biologist/Hydrologist/Geologist/Cartographer Job
- Log in or create an account on USAJOBS.
- Prepare a resume that adheres to the two-page limit and formatting requirements.
- Attach required documents, including unofficial transcripts and recent performance appraisals.
- Submit your application and complete the required assessment questionnaire.
- Monitor your email for requests regarding narrative responses if deemed eligible.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume concise; only the first two pages will be read.
- Ensure your narrative responses are specific and highlight your direct experience with USGS Fundamental Science Practices.
- Submit performance appraisals and award documentation from the last five years to ensure they are given due weight.
- Check your email frequently, as all communication will be handled electronically.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position remote?
This role is considered telework-eligible, but the selectee is expected to report to the duty station on a regular, recurring weekly basis.
What is the salary range?
The annual salary range is $125,776 to $197,200, depending on the agreed-upon duty location and applicable locality pay.
What if my education is from outside the United States?
You must provide documentation demonstrating that your foreign education is comparable to an accredited U.S. institution.
Job from Geological Survey
The USGS is a scientific agency within the Department of the Interior. Its mission is to monitor, analyze, and predict the complex interactions between earth systems. By joining OSQI, you will be at the heart of the agency's quality control, ensuring that the research disseminated to the public meets the highest standards of accuracy and transparency.