Advance Coastal Science: Deputy Center Director Position at USGS
The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) is searching for a dedicated and experienced leader to serve as the Deputy Center Director at the St. Petersburg Coastal and Marine Science Center. This prestigious role is ideal for a senior scientist who excels at the intersection of complex research management, operational strategy, and team development.
Job Responsibilities
As the Deputy Center Director, you will perform the following duties:
- Scientific Stewardship: Assist in the formulation of the center’s scientific direction and coordinate research initiatives.
- Operational Leadership: Manage daily operations, including laboratory safety, facility coordination, and budgetary oversight.
- Personnel Management: Serve as a supervisor for center staff, handling performance appraisals, professional development, and hiring.
- Representation: Act as an advocate for the center at regional and national scientific forums.
Requirements
To qualify for this GS-14 position, applicants must hold one year of specialized experience at the GS-13 level or equivalent. Candidates must meet the basic educational requirements for either the 0401 (Biological) or 1301 (Physical) scientific series.
Comparison of Potential Series
| Feature | Physical Scientist (1301) | Biologist (0401) |
|---|---|---|
| Core Focus | Physics, Engineering, Math | Biology, Ecology, Natural Resources |
| Educational Min | 24 semester hours in physical science | Degree in biological sciences |
| Common Goal | Both require advanced scientific leadership and interdisciplinary expertise | Both require advanced scientific leadership and interdisciplinary expertise |
Salary Overview
The compensation for this position is set at the GS-14 level, ranging from $125,776 to $163,514 per year depending on experience and step-level placement.
Benefits
Employees of the USGS enjoy a robust benefits package, including:
- Health and dental insurance options.
- Retirement savings programs (FERS).
- Paid vacation and federal holidays.
- Training and leadership development opportunities.
Application Tips
Ensure your two-page resume clearly documents your specialized experience with dates and weekly hours. Attach your most recent performance appraisal to ensure your accomplishments are given due weight during the selection process.
This role offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of marine and coastal science in a prime Florida location. If you are prepared to lead with excellence, prepare your application today.
Why This Supervisory Interdisciplinary Biologist/Physical Scientist (Deputy Center Director) Job Matters
Lead coastal science innovation at the USGS St. Petersburg Coastal and Marine Science Center—a high-impact leadership role shaping the future of Earth-system research.
Supervisory Interdisciplinary Biologist/Physical Scientist (Deputy Center Director) Job Overview
The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) is seeking a visionary and experienced leader for the role of Deputy Center Director at the St. Petersburg Coastal and Marine Science Center in Florida. This interdisciplinary position allows you to exercise authoritative oversight in science management, operations, and personnel development, helping to advance critical research on natural hazards, climate change, and marine resource health. As a key member of the leadership team, you will influence the direction of scientific programs and ensure the center's mission-driven objectives are met through effective stewardship and administrative expertise.
Requirements for Supervisory Interdisciplinary Biologist/Physical Scientist (Deputy Center Director)
- U.S. Citizenship eligibility.
- Completion of a one-year probationary period.
- Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a government travel and purchase card.
- Satisfactory completion of a background investigation.
- Submission of a two-page maximum resume.
- Submission of most recent performance appraisal (or explanation if unavailable).
- Registration for Selective Service (for males born after 12-31-59).
- Financial disclosure filing within 30 days of appointment.
Preferred Qualifications for Supervisory Interdisciplinary Biologist/Physical Scientist (Deputy Center Director)
- Proven history as a senior expert in planning and executing large-scale coastal science projects.
- Demonstrated experience in providing advisory and review services for major scientific funding programs.
- Extensive experience in the supervision, career development, and performance management of scientific personnel.
- Capability to defend complex research findings in high-level public or scientific forums.
- Expertise in interdisciplinary science coordination across Federal and State partnerships.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- âś“Federal health insurance and life insurance programs
- âś“Comprehensive retirement planning (FERS)
- âś“Paid federal holidays and leave accrual
- âś“Opportunities for professional development and training
- âś“Telework eligibility as permitted by agency policy
đź’ˇ How to Apply Supervisory Interdisciplinary Biologist/Physical Scientist (Deputy Center Director) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Supervisory Interdisciplinary Biologist/Physical Scientist (Deputy Center Director) Job
- Review the full job announcement and requirements.
- Prepare a resume that does not exceed 2 single-sided pages, adhering to 10-point font and 0.5-inch margins.
- Gather supporting documentation, including transcripts and recent SF-50 forms for federal applicants.
- Complete the required online assessment questionnaire at the provided portal.
- Submit your application and all required documents by 11:59 PM ET on September 11, 2026.
đź’ˇ General Tips
- Be precise in your resume regarding your specialized experience—clearly state the number of hours worked per week.
- Do not include photos or Adobe portfolio documents; they will not be accepted.
- Ensure your resume clearly illustrates how you meet the GS-13 equivalent experience level.
- Double-check your performance appraisal and award documentation; these are given due weight in the selection process.
- If you are a former federal employee, submit your most recent non-award SF-50 to verify your service history.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position open to non-federal employees?
Yes, this position is open to various candidates including the general public, provided they meet the specialized experience and educational requirements.
Can I submit a resume longer than two pages?
No. The vacancy announcement strictly limits the resume to 2 single-sided pages. Any content exceeding this will not be reviewed.
What educational background is required?
You must meet the basic educational requirements for either the Physical Sciences (1301) or Biological Sciences (0401) series, which generally involve 24 semester hours in relevant scientific or engineering disciplines.
What is the deadline to apply?
*A: The closing date for this announcement is September 11, 2026.*
Is relocation authorized?
*A: Yes, relocation assistance is provided for this position.*
Job from Geological Survey
The Department of the Interior’s USGS serves as the nation’s primary source of scientific information regarding Earth-system interactions. By monitoring natural hazards, resources, and ecosystems, the agency provides actionable data that informs critical decision-making across the country.