Launch Your Career as a Physical Scientist (Environmental) in Hawaii

Are you a dedicated scientist looking to apply your skills in a high-impact environment? The Public Health Command - Pacific, under the U.S. Army Medical Command, is currently recruiting for a Physical Scientist (Environmental) based at the renowned Tripler Army Medical Center in Honolulu, Hawaii. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to critical public health missions while enjoying the professional benefits of a federal career.

Job Responsibilities

As a Physical Scientist, you will serve as a technical authority, leading studies and assessments that protect human health and the environment. Key responsibilities include:

Planning and directing special studies regarding environmental and health impacts.
Conducting Occupational and Environmental Health Site Assessments.
Leading epidemiological investigations and multi-media sampling.
Providing technical guidance and training to Department of Defense staff.
Participating in high-level committees and technical workshops.

Requirements

To be considered for this position, candidates must meet the following baseline requirements:

Education: A Bachelor's degree in a physical science, engineering, or math field with at least 24 semester hours in physical or engineering sciences.
Experience: One year of specialized experience at the appropriate grade level (GS-11 through GS-13).
Citizenship: Applicants must be U.S. Citizens.
Clearance: Ability to obtain a Secret security clearance.

Grade Level Comparison

Grade Level	Key Experience Focus
GS-13	Leading studies, expert technical recommendations, and directing field activities.
GS-12	Evaluating data, conducting complex sampling, and technical oversight.
GS-11	Routine testing, field data collection, and application of established procedures.

Salary and Benefits

This position offers a competitive salary range of $77,964 – $144,457. Employees stationed in Honolulu receive an additional 8.64% Cost of Living Allowance (COLA). Beyond the salary, you will have access to:

Comprehensive federal health, dental, and vision insurance.
Robust retirement packages (FERS).
Generous annual and sick leave accrual.
Professional development and career advancement support.

Application Tips

Competition for federal roles can be high, so ensure your application stands out:

Follow the Resume Limit: Keep your resume to two pages exactly. Longer resumes will be discarded.
Be Specific: Explicitly state the number of hours worked per week and provide clear dates for your experience.
Sanitize: Before uploading, remove sensitive personal information from non-essential documents.
Proofread: Use plain language and avoid internal jargon that a recruiter may not recognize.

This position at Tripler Army Medical Center offers more than just a job; it offers the chance to make a tangible impact in a beautiful location. If you are a scientist ready to transition your skills into the public sector, apply through USAJOBS before the August 25, 2026, deadline.

Why This Physical Scientist (Environmental) Job Matters

Protect public health and environment in paradise: Join the U.S. Army Medical Command in Hawaii as a Physical Scientist.

Physical Scientist (Environmental) Job Overview

The Public Health Command - Pacific is seeking a dedicated Physical Scientist (Environmental) to join the team at Tripler Army Medical Center in Honolulu, HI. In this vital role, you will perform essential environmental and occupational health studies, conduct site assessments, and ensure compliance with safety standards across Department of Defense facilities. This position offers a unique opportunity to apply your scientific expertise to support military operations while enjoying the professional growth afforded by a federal career.

Requirements for Physical Scientist (Environmental)

U.S. Citizenship is required.
Must hold a Bachelor's degree (or higher) in physical science, engineering, or mathematics with at least 24 semester hours in physical science/related engineering fields.
One year of specialized experience at the next lower grade level (GS-11, GS-12, or GS-13 equivalent).
Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
Must complete a one-year probationary period.
Resume must be two pages or less.

Preferred Qualifications for Physical Scientist (Environmental)

Experience in conducting epidemiological investigations and multi-media environmental sampling.
Proven ability to lead technical studies and provide guidance to professional/technician staff.
Proficiency in developing and delivering technical training in environmental health and management.
Demonstrated ability to perform on-site water quality analysis and air/soil sampling.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive federal salary with 8.64% Cost of Living Allowance (COLA) for Hawaii.
✓Comprehensive federal health insurance programs.
✓Life insurance and retirement benefits including the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
✓Paid federal holidays, annual leave, and sick leave.
✓Opportunities for professional development and technical training within the Department of Defense.

💡 How to Apply Physical Scientist (Environmental) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Physical Scientist (Environmental) Job

Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
Review the full vacancy announcement carefully.
Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less, highlighting relevant specialized experience.
Complete the mandatory online questionnaire.
Upload required documents, including transcripts and any applicable performance appraisals.
Submit your complete application package by the closing date of August 25, 2026.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume includes dates of employment (month and year) and average hours worked per week for every position.
Use clear, plain language and avoid obscure acronyms.
Sanitize sensitive documents, such as marriage certificates or military orders, to remove third-party personal information.
Verify your uploaded documents after submission to ensure they are complete and legible.
Submit well before the deadline to allow time for system virus scans and potential technical issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the salary range for this position?

The salary ranges from $77,964 to $144,457 per year, depending on the grade level and specific qualifications of the selectee. This includes an 8.64% COLA for Hawaii.

Is a security clearance required?

Yes, this position requires a Secret security clearance.

Are there strict page limits for the resume?

Yes, the resume must be two pages or less. Any resume exceeding this limit will result in immediate disqualification.

Job from U.S. Army Medical Command

The U.S. Army Medical Command provides vital health and environmental expertise that supports military operations globally. Civilian employees are a cornerstone of this organization, offering specialized technical skills that complement military readiness. By joining the team in Honolulu, you will work in a supportive, mission-focused environment, contributing to the health and safety of military personnel and their families.