Launch Your Career as an Industrial Hygienist with the VA
Are you looking for a career that combines technical expertise with a mission-driven purpose? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently offering a unique opportunity for an Industrial Hygienist - Technical Career Field (TCF) Trainee in Martinez, California. This role is designed for professionals who are passionate about workplace safety, health, and supporting those who have served in our nation's military.
Job Responsibilities
As a TCF Trainee, you will undergo a formal two-year training program overseen by a preceptor. Your daily responsibilities will include:
- Conducting industrial hygiene surveys to identify workplace hazards.
- Evaluating employee exposure to chemical, physical, and biological stressors.
- Determining compliance with occupational safety and health standards.
- Operating advanced sampling and monitoring equipment.
- Preparing detailed reports on hazard levels and recommended controls.
Comparison of Qualifications
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Education | Bachelor's or higher in relevant science or engineering |
| Experience | Professional knowledge of industrial hygiene principles |
| Skills | Ability to analyze data and predict health effects |
| Commitment | 3-year service agreement required post-training |
Requirements
To be eligible, you must be a U.S. citizen and meet specific educational criteria, including a degree in a qualifying field or a combination of education and experience. You must also pass a background investigation and be physically capable of performing the duties, which involve walking, standing, and wearing personal protective equipment.
Salary and Benefits
The position offers a competitive salary range of $63,081 to $121,371 per year. Beyond the salary, the TCF program provides funded training dollars, professional mentorship, and a structured path to a GS-11 position. Employees also gain access to the full suite of federal employee benefits.
Application Tips
- Resume Limit: Keep your resume strictly to two pages to comply with federal merit hiring rules.
- Documentation: Ensure you include your transcripts if you are relying on your education to qualify.
- Detail-Oriented: Describe your duties clearly, including start/end dates for your experience.
This position offers an unparalleled opportunity to jumpstart your career in industrial hygiene. By joining the VA in Martinez, you aren't just getting a job; you are becoming part of a dedicated team committed to protecting the health of Veterans and staff alike. Apply today to begin your journey.
Why This Industrial Hygienist -Technical Career Field (Tcf) Trainee Job Matters
Launch your career in health protection with the Department of Veterans Affairs. Join the Technical Career Field (TCF) program and become a guardian of workplace safety for those who served our nation.
Industrial Hygienist -Technical Career Field (Tcf) Trainee Job Overview
The Veterans Health Administration is seeking a dedicated Industrial Hygienist Trainee to join our team in Martinez, California. This developmental position is part of the prestigious Technical Career Field (TCF) program, designed to cultivate the next generation of technical experts within the VA. Over a two-year training period, you will receive expert mentorship, hands-on experience, and a clear path toward a GS-11 full performance role. You will play a vital role in identifying, evaluating, and mitigating occupational hazards to ensure the health and safety of our healthcare staff and veterans.
Requirements for Industrial Hygienist -Technical Career Field (Tcf) Trainee
- U.S. Citizenship
- Registration with the Selective Service (for males born after 12/31/1959)
- Ability to pass a background/security investigation
- Completion of a 1-year probationary period
- Commitment to a 3-year service agreement following training completion
- Participation in the annual seasonal influenza vaccination program
- Bachelor's degree in industrial hygiene, occupational health, safety sciences, or a qualifying physical/life science curriculum
- Ability to perform physical tasks including walking, standing, and lifting equipment
Preferred Qualifications for Industrial Hygienist -Technical Career Field (Tcf) Trainee
- Master’s degree in a related technical field
- Relevant professional experience in identifying and mitigating chemical, physical, or biological workplace stressors
- Experience with industrial hygiene sampling and monitoring instrumentation
- Strong analytical skills and technical reporting capabilities
Federal Benefits & Perks
- âś“Comprehensive federal benefits package
- âś“Structured two-year professional mentorship and training
- âś“Clear promotion potential to GS-11
- âś“Nationally funded training and professional development opportunities
- âś“Rewarding work environment supporting Veterans
đź’ˇ How to Apply Industrial Hygienist -Technical Career Field (Tcf) Trainee Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Industrial Hygienist -Technical Career Field (Tcf) Trainee Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume that is no more than two pages in length.
- Upload required documents, including transcripts and any applicable Veterans' preference documentation.
- Complete the online application and the competency-based assessment questionnaire.
- Monitor your email for potential requests to complete further USA Hire assessments.
- Submit your full application package before the August 21, 2026, closing date.
đź’ˇ General Tips
- Strictly follow the two-page resume limit requirement.
- Use the USAJOBS resume builder to ensure your format is optimal.
- Be specific in your resume about your duties, including start and end dates for every position.
- Ensure your transcript is legible and clearly shows relevant coursework.
- Check your spam folder frequently for communications from the hiring center.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the TCF program?
The Technical Career Field (TCF) program is a national VA initiative designed to train staff in critical technical areas through a structured two-year developmental plan with mentorship.
Can I apply with a non-engineering degree?
Yes, provided your degree program included the required 12 semester hours in chemistry and 18 additional hours in relevant science or engineering coursework as specified in the announcement.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration is the largest integrated healthcare system in the United States. Providing care to our nation's Veterans is a deeply meaningful calling, and the VA’s core values—Integrity, Commitment, Advocacy, Respect, and Excellence (I CARE)—guide every aspect of our work. The TCF program is a cornerstone of the VA’s workforce strategy, providing specialized, high-quality training to ensure we maintain technical excellence across our facilities.