Launch Your Career as a Safety and Occupational Health Specialist with the Bureau of Reclamation

Are you a dedicated professional with a passion for workplace safety? The Bureau of Reclamation is seeking a Safety and Occupational Health Specialist to join our team. This position offers a unique chance to combine technical expertise with a commitment to protecting our nation’s water and natural resources.

Job Responsibilities

In this role, you will be the eyes and ears of safety for the region. Key duties include:

Planning and conducting safety inspections at facilities.
Providing technical oversight for operations and maintenance.
Evaluating contractor safety programs and performing site reviews.
Serving as the lead for physical security and hazardous materials (HAZMAT) coordination.
Developing training materials to educate staff on accident prevention.

Comparison of Qualifications: GS-09 vs. GS-11

Feature	GS-09	GS-11
Core Duty	Assisting in site inspections	Evaluating building plans & hazards
Education Req.	Master's degree	PhD or 3 years grad school
Experience	1 year at GS-07 level	1 year at GS-09 level

Requirements

Candidates must demonstrate U.S. citizenship, pass background checks, and maintain a valid driver's license. You must also be prepared for field-intensive work, which includes navigating construction hazards and extreme weather.

Salary and Benefits

This position offers a competitive salary range of $61,722 to $97,087 annually, commensurate with your experience and education. Employees enjoy federal benefits, including comprehensive health coverage and retirement plans.

Application Tips

To succeed, focus on quantifying your impact. Use your two-page resume to clearly outline how you have reduced workplace accidents or improved safety compliance. Always submit your performance appraisals to ensure your achievements are acknowledged.

If you are ready to make a significant impact on public safety while working for the federal government, we encourage you to apply by August 4, 2026. Your expertise is vital to our success.

Why This Safety And Occupational Health Specialist Job Matters

Protect the West's natural resources and public safety as a Safety and Occupational Health Specialist with the Bureau of Reclamation—where your expertise shapes a safer future.

Safety And Occupational Health Specialist Job Overview

Join the Bureau of Reclamation and take a pivotal role in maintaining the safety of our regional operations. As a Safety and Occupational Health Specialist, you will act as a key advisor in Bismarck, North Dakota, or Pierre/Rapid City, South Dakota, ensuring that we effectively manage water and related resources while minimizing workplace risks. This is an impactful role for a dedicated professional looking to implement safety standards, perform site inspections, and foster a culture of vigilance.

Requirements for Safety And Occupational Health Specialist

U.S. Citizenship
Background investigation and favorable adjudication
Selective Service registration for males born after 12/31/59
Direct Deposit of pay
Successful E-Verify employment check
Valid state driver's license
Completion of 1-year probationary or 2-year trial period
Restriction against holding specific real estate licenses or conflicting financial interests

Preferred Qualifications for Safety And Occupational Health Specialist

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Safety, Occupational Health, Industrial Hygiene, or related scientific/engineering fields
Certified Safety Professional (CSP), Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH), or Certified Health Physicist (CHP) credentials
Progressive experience in safety program management or industrial hygiene
Expertise in construction safety and hazard mitigation strategies

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Federal health and life insurance options
✓Federal Retirement System (FERS) participation
✓Paid time off and federal holidays
✓Opportunities for professional development and training
✓Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives for qualified candidates

💡 How to Apply Safety And Occupational Health Specialist Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Safety And Occupational Health Specialist Job

Review the full vacancy announcement in detail.
Prepare a resume that specifically highlights relevant safety experience.
Gather necessary documentation, including transcripts and SF-50s if applicable.
Log into your USAJOBS account to start your application.
Complete the required assessment questionnaires.
Submit your final package by 11:59 PM (ET) on 08/04/2026.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume is limited to two pages and uses a minimum 10-point font.
Clearly link your experience to the safety and health tasks described in the job summary.
Submit your most recent performance appraisal and a list of relevant awards to receive due weight consideration.
Double-check that your transcripts are legible and contain all required information (GPA, course hours, etc.).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I qualify for this position with education alone?

Yes, applicants may qualify for specific grade levels through a combination of graduate-level education in relevant fields or a mix of education and specialized experience.

What physical demands should I expect?

This role involves frequent field visits, including walking, climbing, and bending in various terrain and weather conditions, as well as exposure to construction site hazards.

Is telework allowed?

Yes, this position is telework-eligible, though the role requires field investigations.

Do I need a professional certification?

While not strictly required for all levels, a CSP or CIH is highly valued and can assist in qualifying for the position.

Job from Bureau Of Reclamation

The Department of the Interior (DOI) and the Bureau of Reclamation are committed to the stewardship of our nation's resources. Our mission involves managing, developing, and protecting water resources in a sustainable, environmentally sound manner. By joining our team, you become part of an organization that values public safety, environmental integrity, and excellence.