Become a Leader in Medical Device Regulation: Deputy Director & Chief Medical Officer Role at the FDA

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is the cornerstone of public health in the United States, and its Center for Devices and Radiological Health (CDRH) plays a vital role in ensuring that innovative medical technologies reach patients safely. We are currently looking for a distinguished medical professional to step into the role of Deputy Director and Chief Medical Officer within the Office of Product Evaluation and Quality (OPEQ). If you are a leader passionate about public health and regulatory science, this is your chance to make a lasting impact.

Job Responsibilities

As the Deputy Director and Chief Medical Officer, your duties include:

Providing executive leadership and clinical authority for FDA medical device programs.
Overseeing the review processes for PMAs, 510(k)s, and other regulatory submissions.
Developing clinical and scientific policy to address emerging technologies.
Representing the FDA to stakeholders including Congress, industry leaders, and international regulators.
Managing over 1,500 employees, ensuring high levels of scientific performance and operational efficiency.

Requirements

To be considered for this high-level position, candidates must meet the following baseline qualifications:

Education: Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) from an accredited institution.
Licensure: An active, unrestricted medical license.
Documentation: Official or unofficial transcripts and proof of licensure are strictly required.

Comparison: General vs. Specialized Requirements

Requirement	Status	Importance
Medical Degree	Mandatory	Critical
State Medical License	Mandatory	Critical
Executive Leadership	Preferred	High
Regulatory Experience	Preferred	High

Salary and Benefits

The position offers a competitive salary range of $235,000 to $340,795 per year. Beyond the base pay, you will have access to extensive federal benefits, including:

Comprehensive health coverage and retirement plans.
Potential eligibility for recruitment or relocation incentives.
A professional environment that promotes continuous learning and scientific innovation.

Application Tips

Be Comprehensive: Ensure your two-page resume captures every detail of your professional history.
Verify Transcripts: Ensure your files are non-secured so the automated system can read your academic history.
Early Submission: Don't wait until the closing date of September 13, 2026, to apply. Technical issues can happen; plan ahead.

Serving as the Chief Medical Officer at OPEQ is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the safety and future of American healthcare. If you possess the clinical expertise and leadership vision to guide medical device regulation into a new era, we encourage you to apply today.

Why This Deputy Director, Chief Medical Officer, Office Of Product Evaluation And Quality Job Matters

Shape the future of public health as the Deputy Director and Chief Medical Officer at the FDA’s Center for Devices and Radiological Health.

Deputy Director, Chief Medical Officer, Office Of Product Evaluation And Quality Job Overview

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is seeking a visionary leader to serve as Deputy Director and Chief Medical Officer for the Office of Product Evaluation and Quality (OPEQ). In this high-impact executive role, you will provide critical clinical and regulatory oversight for medical devices, guiding the agency’s strategic direction while ensuring the safety, efficacy, and quality of technologies that impact millions of lives. This position is a unique opportunity to bridge the gap between complex medical innovation and regulatory compliance at the highest level of federal service.

Requirements for Deputy Director, Chief Medical Officer, Office Of Product Evaluation And Quality

Must hold a Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degree from an accredited U.S. or Canadian institution.
Must possess a current, active, full, and unrestricted medical license or registration from a U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia.
Must be able to provide official or unofficial transcripts verifying educational credentials.
Must meet requirements by the closing date of 09/13/2026.
Must successfully complete the required online assessment questionnaire.

Preferred Qualifications for Deputy Director, Chief Medical Officer, Office Of Product Evaluation And Quality

Demonstrated ability to manage multi-disciplinary programs and large-scale organizational initiatives.
Proven experience in high-level regulatory decision-making, including PMAs, 510(k)s, and IDEs.
Expertise in communicating complex scientific and clinical issues to external stakeholders, including Congress and international regulatory bodies.
Experience managing diverse teams and fostering professional development within a scientific or technical environment.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive federal salary ranging from $235,000 to $340,795 per year.
✓Opportunities for professional growth within a mission-driven public health agency.
✓Comprehensive federal health, retirement, and insurance benefits.
✓Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives, subject to funding availability.
✓Eligible for telework at the discretion of agency leadership.

💡 How to Apply Deputy Director, Chief Medical Officer, Office Of Product Evaluation And Quality Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Deputy Director, Chief Medical Officer, Office Of Product Evaluation And Quality Job

Create or log in to a verified account at Login.gov.
Prepare a detailed, two-page resume highlighting specific duties, salary, hours, and employment dates.
Gather academic transcripts and medical licensure documentation.
Complete the online application via the USA Staffing/Application Manager portal.
Submit responses to the optional but encouraged essay questions provided in the assessment.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume includes specific dates, salaries, and hours worked for every position listed to avoid being rated ineligible.
Verify that your electronic transcripts are in a non-secured format that the automated system can read.
Start your application early; system traffic is high near the closing deadline.
If you require a reasonable accommodation for the application process, contact the Applicant Help Desk immediately.
Check your SF-50 forms if you have previous federal service to ensure your records are accurate for reporting.

Frequently Asked Questions

What authority governs this hiring process?

This position is filled under Title 21 of the United States Code (21 US Code 379d-3a) as amended by the 21st Century Cures Act of 2016.

Is a financial disclosure required?

Yes, this is a public filing position. The incumbent must adhere to FDA prohibited financial interest regulations and may be required to divest certain assets.

Who should I contact for technical help?

Please contact the FDA Applicant Help Desk at 866-807-3742 or email [email protected] for specific questions regarding your application.

Is this a remote position?

*A: No, this position is based in White Oak, Maryland, though telework is available at the discretion of the supervisor.*

Are veterans' preference points applied?

*A: No, this is a Title 21 appointment, and traditional rating and ranking, including veterans' preference, do not apply.*

Job from Food And Drug Administration

The FDA’s Center for Devices and Radiological Health (CDRH) is committed to protecting and promoting public health by assuring that patients and providers have timely access to safe and effective medical devices. Working within the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), you will join a team dedicated to transparency, scientific excellence, and regulatory integrity.