Advance Your Career as a Veterinary Medical Officer with the FDA
Are you a dedicated veterinarian looking to transition your clinical expertise into a role that influences national public health policy? The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is looking for a qualified Veterinary Medical Officer to join the Center for Veterinary Medicine (CVM). This position offers a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of veterinary science, public safety, and regulatory policy.
Job Responsibilities
As a Veterinary Medical Officer, your duties will include:
- Serving as a technical authority on veterinary medicine.
- Advising staff on policies impacting animal drugs, foods, and devices.
- Reviewing clinical and scientific data to support regulatory decisions.
- Monitoring developments in veterinary medicine and animal nutrition.
Comparison: Traditional Clinical Practice vs. FDA Regulatory Role
| Feature | Clinical Practice | FDA Regulatory Role |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Individual Patients | National/Public Population |
| Focus | Diagnosis & Treatment | Safety, Efficacy, & Policy |
| Primary Goal | Patient Health | Public/Animal Health Regulations |
| Setting | Hospital/Clinic | Administrative/Scientific Office |
Requirements
To be considered for this position, applicants must have a DVM or VMD degree from an AVMA-accredited school. Foreign-trained graduates must provide ECFVG certification or demonstrate educational equivalency. Accuracy in your application is essential; transcripts must be provided to verify your educational background.
Salary Overview
This position is recruited under the Title 21 Pay Table 1, Band C. The annual salary range is $121,785 to $169,583, commensurate with experience and qualifications.
Benefits
Employees of the FDA enjoy extensive federal benefits, including robust health insurance, retirement planning, and potential for student loan repayment or relocation incentives.
Application Tips
- Use the USAJOBS portal to track your progress.
- Ensure your resume contains specific details: job title, hours worked per week, and salary history.
- Utilize the FDA Applicant Help Desk (866-807-3742) for technical issues during the process.
This role is perfect for a veterinarian who wants to pivot toward a career in public policy and high-level regulatory oversight. If you are passionate about the rule of law and improving the efficiency of federal government health initiatives, apply today.
Why This Veterinary Medical Officer Job Matters
Shape the future of animal health and public safety as a Veterinary Medical Officer with the FDA's Center for Veterinary Medicine.
Veterinary Medical Officer Job Overview
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is seeking a dedicated Veterinary Medical Officer to join the Center for Veterinary Medicine (CVM) in College Park, Maryland. This role is a vital component of the agency's mission to protect public and animal health through scientific rigor, regulatory oversight, and a commitment to the One Health perspective. You will serve as a technical authority, providing expert guidance on animal drugs, food safety, and medical devices, ensuring these products meet the highest safety standards for the American public.
Requirements for Veterinary Medical Officer
- Must possess a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) or equivalent degree (VMD) from an AVMA-accredited institution.
- Graduates of non-AVMA accredited foreign schools must provide ECFVG certification or equivalent foreign education evaluation.
- Must provide proof of English language proficiency if educated abroad.
- Must submit complete academic transcripts documenting all relevant education.
- Must be able to obtain and maintain a Moderate Risk suitability/fitness clearance.
Preferred Qualifications for Veterinary Medical Officer
- Expertise in regulatory affairs related to animal nutrition and pharmaceuticals.
- Demonstrated ability to interpret complex legal and scientific data.
- Experience in providing technical guidance to multi-disciplinary teams in a scientific environment.
- Strong proficiency in written and verbal communication for policy development.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance programs.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training.
- ✓Work-life balance with telework eligibility as determined by supervisors.
- ✓Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives based on agency needs and funding.
- ✓Access to a range of federal retirement and leave benefits.
💡 How to Apply Veterinary Medical Officer Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Veterinary Medical Officer Job
- Create or sign in to your login.gov account on the USAJOBS platform.
- Prepare a comprehensive resume detailing your specific duties, dates of employment, and salary history for each position.
- Complete the online application questionnaire within the USA Staffing system.
- Upload all required supporting documents, including official transcripts and professional licenses.
- Submit your application by 11:59 PM EST on the closing date of July 14, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Start your application early to avoid last-minute technical delays.
- Ensure your resume includes month and year of employment start/end dates for every role listed.
- Double-check that all electronic transcripts are in a non-secured, readable format.
- Read the questionnaire carefully and certify that your answers are original work.
- Keep a copy of the Vacancy Identification Number (13004196) for any inquiries.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 'One Health' perspective mentioned?
It is an integrated approach that recognizes the health of people is closely connected to the health of animals and our shared environment.
Is telework available for this position?
Yes, this position is eligible for telework, subject to the discretion of your direct supervisor.
Do I need to disclose financial interests?
Yes, you may be required to file a financial disclosure report and divest certain financial interests to comply with FDA ethics regulations.
Is a security clearance required?
*A: This position is designated as Moderate Risk, but a full security clearance is not required for initial hiring.*
Can I submit my application after the July 14, 2026 deadline?
*A: No, all materials must be submitted by 11:59 PM EST on the closing date.*
Job from Food And Drug Administration
The FDA’s Center for Veterinary Medicine (CVM) is responsible for protecting and promoting human and animal health through the 'One Health' perspective. CVM ensures the safety of the animal food supply, regulates animal drugs, and oversees medical devices used in veterinary practice. By joining this team, you become part of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), working to ensure a safer and healthier future for all Americans.