Become a Leader in Laboratory Animal Science at the VA Boston Health Care System
Are you a dedicated professional in biological sciences looking to make a meaningful impact? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently seeking a Supervisory Biological Science Laboratory Technician (Animal) to join the Research and Development Service at the VA Boston Health Care System. This leadership role is vital to ensuring that the research conducted at our facilities meets the highest standards of care and ethical practice.
Job Responsibilities
As the VMU Supervisor, you will be responsible for the day-to-day operations of animal facilities at both the Jamaica Plain and West Roxbury campuses. Key duties include:
- Facility Management: Overseeing surgery, necropsy, cage washing, and diet preparation areas.
- Regulatory Compliance: Ensuring adherence to AAALAC, USDA, and OLAW standards.
- Population Control: Coordinating with investigators to manage animal purchasing and care requirements.
- Leadership: Managing personnel, budget, and property, while providing training for researchers and technical staff.
- Reporting: Preparing annual reports for regulatory bodies.
At-a-Glance: Position Details
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary | $84,579 - $109,959 |
| Location | Boston, MA |
| Schedule | Full-time, Mon-Fri |
| Closing Date | Sept 8, 2026 |
Requirements
To qualify for the GS-11 grade, you must provide proof of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-10 level in the Federal service. This experience must demonstrate your ability to manage laboratory environments and animal care operations. Education substitutions are also accepted, including a Ph.D. or three years of graduate-level study in a related field. Please ensure all transcripts are attached to your application.
Salary and Benefits
The position offers a competitive salary of $84,579 to $109,959 annually. Beyond the base pay, the VA offers a robust benefits package, including health insurance, retirement planning, and generous paid time off. You may also qualify for annual leave accrual credit based on your professional background.
How to Apply
Application for this position must be completed through the USAJOBS portal. Remember to keep your resume under two pages and verify that all contact information is accurate. Errors in your application or missing documentation (such as transcripts) can negatively affect your ranking.
If you have the experience and the drive to support world-class research in a supportive, mission-driven environment, the VA Boston Health Care System is the place for you. Apply before the deadline to ensure your materials are considered.
Why This Supervisory Biological Science Laboratory Technician (Animal) Job Matters
Lead the future of animal care in research at the VA Boston Health Care System—your expertise ensures the highest standards for those who served.
Supervisory Biological Science Laboratory Technician (Animal) Job Overview
The VA Boston Health Care System is seeking a dedicated Supervisory Biological Science Laboratory Technician to oversee its Veterinary Medical Unit (VMU). In this pivotal role, you will manage facility operations across both Jamaica Plain and West Roxbury campuses, ensuring human animal care, regulatory compliance, and efficient support for critical research initiatives. This is an onsite leadership opportunity for a professional committed to both scientific excellence and the VA mission of serving our nation’s Veterans.
Requirements for Supervisory Biological Science Laboratory Technician (Animal)
- U.S. Citizenship
- One full year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-10 grade level
- Experience in a laboratory setting involving animal physiology, anatomy, restraint, and handling
- Completion of a Supervisory Situational Judgment Test (SSJT)
- Registration with the Selective Service for males born after 12/31/1959
- Subject to a background/security investigation
- Mandatory seasonal influenza vaccination (or approved exemption)
- Commitment to a 1-year probationary period
Preferred Qualifications for Supervisory Biological Science Laboratory Technician (Animal)
- PhD or equivalent doctoral degree in a relevant field
- Three academic years of progressively higher-level graduate education
- Proven experience in facility management and budgetary oversight
- Demonstrated ability to coordinate with Institutional Animal Care and Use Committees (IACUC)
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options
- ✓Generous paid vacation and sick leave accrual
- ✓Predictable federal work schedules
- ✓Participation in federal retirement programs
- ✓Career development and training opportunities
- ✓Service credit for annual leave based on prior experience
💡 How to Apply Supervisory Biological Science Laboratory Technician (Animal) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Supervisory Biological Science Laboratory Technician (Animal) Job
- Prepare a two-page maximum resume highlighting relevant experience
- Gather supporting documents (transcripts, SF-50 if applicable, DD-214 for Veterans)
- Create or log into a USAJOBS account
- Complete the online application and assessment questionnaire
- Submit your full application package before the closing date of September 8, 2026
💡 General Tips
- Use the USAJOBS resume builder to ensure you meet formatting requirements
- Be specific with dates (month/year) and hours worked per week for every job entry
- Align your resume language with the competencies listed in the job announcement
- Save your resume as a PDF to ensure document formatting is preserved
- Submit your application well in advance of the deadline to avoid technical issues
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a remote position?
No, this is an onsite position located at the VA Boston Health Care System. Candidates must reside within or relocate to a commutable distance.
Can I combine my education and work experience to qualify?
Yes, applicants may use a combination of graduate education and specialized experience to meet the requirements for the GS-11 grade level.
What happens after I apply?
Applications are reviewed based on category rating procedures. Referred applicants will be notified via email and may be invited for an interview.
What is the Supervisory Situational Judgment Test?
*A: It is an assessment tool used to measure your decision-making and judgment skills in a leadership context. It takes roughly 45 minutes.*
Do I need to be a Veteran to apply?
*A: No, this position is open to the public.*
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration is the largest integrated health care system in the United States. We serve those who have served our country—our Veterans. Working with the VA is more than just a job; it is a commitment to a mission of compassion and excellence. Our employees enjoy a stable, rewarding environment that promotes work-life balance and long-term career growth.