Advance Animal Health: Veterinary Medical Officer (Pathology) Opportunities
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) is looking for a passionate and skilled Veterinary Medical Officer (Pathology) to join the Agricultural Research Service (ARS) in Manhattan, Kansas. This is a vital role at the National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility (NBAF), where science meets safety to protect the nation's agricultural future.
Job Responsibilities
As a pathologist, you will:
- Design and conduct state-of-the-art experiments.
- Analyze molecular mechanisms of disease transmission.
- Present findings to the scientific community.
- Develop new pathological evaluation techniques.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary Range | $106,437 - $163,514 |
| Location | Manhattan, Kansas |
| Grade Levels | GS-13 to GS-14 |
| Telework | Up to 4 days/week |
Requirements
Candidates must hold a DVM from an AVMA-accredited school (or equivalent). We require at least one year of specialized research experience involving sample evaluation and laboratory equipment operation. Applicants must pass a drug test and adhere to federal security standards.
Salary and Benefits
Beyond a competitive salary, we provide a robust benefits package, including health insurance, retirement planning, and generous leave. Our commitment to work-life balance includes flexible telework arrangements.
How to Apply
Ensure your resume is limited to two pages and clearly demonstrates your expertise. Submit all documents via the USAJOBS portal before the deadline of September 23, 2026.
This role offers a unique intersection of veterinary medicine and national security. If you are ready to apply your pathology expertise to real-world challenges, we encourage you to submit your application today.
Why This Veterinary Medical Officer (Pathology) Job Matters
Join the front lines of global biosecurity by shaping the future of animal health and infectious disease research at the National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility.
Veterinary Medical Officer (Pathology) Job Overview
The USDA Agricultural Research Service is seeking a dedicated Veterinary Medical Officer (Pathology) to join the National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility in Manhattan, Kansas. In this role, you will play a critical part in high-stakes research, investigating the transmission and pathogenesis of foreign animal diseases, including foot-and-mouth disease, to protect domestic livestock and wildlife. This position offers a unique opportunity to apply state-of-the-art pathology techniques in a world-class research environment.
Requirements for Veterinary Medical Officer (Pathology)
- Possess a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) or equivalent degree from an AVMA-accredited institution.
- Graduates of non-accredited foreign veterinary schools must hold ECFVG certification, a full/unrestricted U.S. veterinary license, or proof of equivalent education.
- Must provide documented proof of English language proficiency if holding a degree from a non-accredited foreign institution.
- One year of specialized experience at the GS-12 (for GS-13 applicants) or GS-13 (for GS-14 applicants) level.
- Must pass a pre-employment urinalysis for illegal drug use as a requirement for this Testing Designated Position.
- Ability to adhere to security and safety protocols for a Noncritical-Sensitive/Moderate Risk position.
Preferred Qualifications for Veterinary Medical Officer (Pathology)
- PhD in a relevant field such as pathobiology, immunology, virology, or veterinary clinical sciences.
- Three years of internship, residency, or fellowship training in a relevant veterinary discipline.
- Board certification in an American Board of Veterinary Specialties (ABVS) recognized organization, such as the American College of Veterinary Pathologists.
- Demonstrated experience in vaccine development or designing complex animal studies.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Federal Salary with potential for advancement to GS-14.
- ✓Flexible work arrangements and telework options up to four days per week.
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, dental, and vision insurance programs.
- ✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- ✓Generous annual and sick leave accrual policies.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and scientific research impact.
💡 How to Apply Veterinary Medical Officer (Pathology) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Veterinary Medical Officer (Pathology) Job
- Review the full vacancy announcement on USAJOBS carefully.
- Prepare a resume that does not exceed two pages, detailing your specific research experience and education.
- Gather necessary documentation, including unofficial transcripts and certifications.
- Create or update your USAJOBS profile.
- Click the Apply button to complete the online assessment questionnaire.
- Submit all materials by the closing date of September 23, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume explicitly maps your experience to the duties listed in the announcement.
- Verify that your uploaded documents are under 5MB and in supported formats like PDF or Word.
- If you require a reasonable accommodation for the application process, contact the Agency representative immediately.
- Turn on email notifications in your USAJOBS profile to track your application status.
- Do not inflate your qualifications; the agency validates responses against your provided documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position open to the public?
Yes, this position is open to all U.S. citizens under the Direct-Hire Authority.
Can I work remotely?
While this position requires on-site presence for laboratory duties, it is eligible for telework up to four days per week.
Are there recruitment incentives?
Recruitment or relocation incentives may be authorized based on the needs of the agency and the qualifications of the selected candidate.
Job from Agricultural Research Service
The Agricultural Research Service is the premier in-house research agency for the USDA. Our mission is to solve complex agricultural problems that impact everyday life. By joining our team at the NBAF, you will work alongside world-class scientists investigating infectious diseases that threaten our food supply, focusing on diseases like foot-and-mouth and classical swine fever.