Launch Your Career as a Risk Assessor and Toxicologist with the Air Force
The Air Force Civil Engineer Center (AFCEC) is offering a high-impact opportunity for environmental professionals to join their team in San Antonio, Texas. If you are an expert in toxicology, environmental risk assessment, and regulatory compliance, this interdisciplinary position offers a chance to contribute to mission-critical work for the Department of the Air Force.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will serve as a subject matter expert in chemical toxicity and ecological risk. Key duties include:
- Technical Advising: Providing expert guidance to MAJCOMs, regional teams, and leadership on environmental restoration strategies.
- Risk Evaluation: Reviewing and auditing complex human health and ecological risk assessments to ensure technical sufficiency.
- Regulatory Oversight: Ensuring all projects comply with CERCLA, RCRA, and EPA guidance (RAGS).
- Strategic Development: Forecasting resource requirements and managing environmental contracts.
Requirements
Candidates must meet stringent educational and professional standards. You must demonstrate specialized experience equivalent to the GS-11 level, including hands-on work with conceptual exposure models and environmental data analysis.
| Requirement | Criteria |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | Must be a U.S. Citizen |
| Education | Bachelor’s degree in relevant science/engineering field |
| Experience | 1 year at GS-11 level (or equivalent) |
| Transcripts | Official copies required for application |
Salary Overview
This position is part of the Acquisition Demonstration Project (NH-03), with a competitive salary range of $76,463 to $118,204 per year. The exact salary offered depends on your qualifications and professional experience.
Benefits
Employees of the Air Force enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including:
- Federal health insurance plans.
- Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- Generous paid time off and federal holidays.
- Access to professional development and training programs.
Application Tips
- Watch the Resume Length: Keep it under two pages. Longer resumes will not be considered.
- Be Specific: Include total hours worked per week for every position listed.
- Transcripts: Do not wait until the last minute to track down official records.
- Answer the Questionnaire: The online questionnaire is weighted heavily; ensure your resume supports every "yes" answer you provide.
This role is an excellent fit for mid-to-senior level toxicologists and environmental engineers looking to transition their expertise into federal service. With a strong support system and a clear mission, you can grow your career in one of the most innovative environmental divisions in the Department of Defense.
Why This Risk Assessor/Toxicologist Interdisciplinary (Environmental) - Direct Hire Authority Job Matters
Join the Air Force Civil Engineer Center as a Subject Matter Specialist in Toxicology and Risk Assessment—a critical role dedicated to environmental restoration and technical excellence.
Risk Assessor/Toxicologist Interdisciplinary (Environmental) - Direct Hire Authority Job Overview
The Air Force Civil Engineer Center (AFCEC) is seeking highly skilled environmental professionals to serve as Risk Assessors and Toxicologists. Based in San Antonio, Texas, this role operates within the Environmental Restoration Technical Support Division. You will play a vital part in providing expert advisory services, evaluating environmental data, and ensuring that restoration programs align with complex regulatory frameworks such as CERCLA and RCRA. This position offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of environmental health and safety within the Department of the Air Force.
Requirements for Risk Assessor/Toxicologist Interdisciplinary (Environmental) - Direct Hire Authority
- U.S. Citizenship is required.
- Must meet OPM qualification standards for one of the following series: Community Planner (0020), Biological Scientist (0401), General/Environmental Engineer (0801/0819), or Physical Scientist (1301).
- Bachelor's degree or higher in a relevant field (Engineering, Science, etc.) with specific semester hours in required disciplines.
- Must possess 1 year (52 weeks) of specialized experience equivalent to the NH-02 (GS-11) broadband level.
- Expertise in EPA Risk Assessment Guidance for Superfund (RAGS).
- Knowledge of CERCLA and RCRA regulatory requirements and vapor intrusion principles.
- Proficiency in developing conceptual exposure models and evaluating risk assessment data.
- Submission of official transcripts is mandatory for education-based qualifications.
Preferred Qualifications for Risk Assessor/Toxicologist Interdisciplinary (Environmental) - Direct Hire Authority
- Extensive experience in environmental restoration program management.
- Strong background in DoD and Air Force environmental policy and directives.
- Ability to communicate complex scientific findings to senior leadership.
- Proficiency in environmental contracting and resource forecasting.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- âś“Competitive federal salary and benefits package.
- âś“Opportunities for professional growth within a high-level government agency.
- âś“Access to a comprehensive range of health and retirement programs.
- âś“Telework eligibility depending on organizational needs.
- âś“Potential for career advancement within the Acquisition Demonstration Project.
đź’ˇ How to Apply Risk Assessor/Toxicologist Interdisciplinary (Environmental) - Direct Hire Authority Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Risk Assessor/Toxicologist Interdisciplinary (Environmental) - Direct Hire Authority Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Review the specific questionnaire provided in the application link.
- Prepare a resume that does not exceed two pages, including specific hours worked per week and dates of employment.
- Upload all required documentation, including official transcripts if relying on education.
- Submit the complete application package before the closing date of December 17, 2026.
- Confirm submission via the status dashboard in your USAJOBS account.
đź’ˇ General Tips
- Ensure your resume strictly adheres to the two-page limit; excess pages will disqualify your application.
- Clearly state your current series and grade if you are a current or former federal employee.
- Highlight specific instances of risk assessment work, including data review and exposure model development.
- Check your USAJOBS portal periodically for status updates, as notification emails may be filtered or delayed.
- Verify all uploaded documents have cleared the virus scan (up to one hour) before the final deadline.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the NH-03 pay band?
The NH-03 pay band is an Acquisition Demonstration Project broadband equivalent to GS-12 and GS-13 salary levels.
Can I qualify based on a combination of education and experience?
Yes, many of the qualifying series allow for a combination of relevant college coursework and professional experience, provided specific credit hour thresholds are met.
Is a security clearance required?
The position involves specific clearance requirements categorized as 'Other'; please refer to the specific job announcement details for your situation.
How often are applications reviewed?
Applications are accepted on a continuous basis, and referrals occur as vacancies arise throughout the year.
Is relocation covered?
Please refer to the specific job announcement regarding relocation benefits, as tax laws regarding PCS moves have changed recently.
Job from Air Force Materiel Command
The Air Force Civil Engineer Center (AFCEC) is a Primary Subordinate Unit of the Air Force Installation and Mission Support Center. Based in San Antonio, AFCEC manages a vast portfolio of environmental, energy, and facility projects. Working here puts you at the heart of military installation support, where your technical expertise directly impacts national security and environmental sustainability.