Chemical Engineer: Protecting Workers with the U.S. Department of Labor
The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) are currently seeking a highly qualified Chemical Engineer to join the Dallas Regional Office. This role is pivotal in maintaining safety standards across the chemical manufacturing and petrochemical industries. If you are an experienced engineer looking to transition your technical expertise into a mission-driven public service role, this is an exceptional opportunity to influence national safety protocols.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will lead the implementation of the Process Safety Management Standard (PSMS). Your primary duties will include:
- Planning and coordinating safety compliance methodologies.
- Acting as a liaison between OSHA, the EPA, and state/local jurisdictions.
- Conducting field visits to analyze complex chemical processes.
- Providing expert recommendations regarding engineering feasibility and abatement strategies.
- Ensuring region-wide consistency in federal policy application.
Requirements
To qualify for this GS-13 position, candidates must meet specific Individual Occupational Requirements (IOR) and specialized experience criteria. Below is a comparison of common qualifying pathways:
| Pathway | Criteria |
|---|---|
| Educational Degree | ABET-accredited Bachelor's in Engineering |
| Certification | Professional Engineer (PE) or EIT license |
| Experience | 1+ year at GS-12 equivalent in federal sector |
| Scientific Degree | Related field + 1 year professional experience |
Salary Overview
This position offers a highly competitive federal salary range of $115,711 to $150,426 per year, commensurate with experience and federal pay regulations.
Benefits
Working for the Department of Labor provides access to a comprehensive federal benefits package, including:
- Comprehensive Health and Life Insurance.
- Federal Retirement System (FERS).
- Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching.
- Paid annual leave, sick leave, and federal holidays.
Application Tips
- Resume Length: Keep your resume strictly to two pages to comply with federal requirements for this specific vacancy.
- Documentation: Ensure your transcripts are in English and clearly show any required coursework if you are qualifying based on education.
- Assessments: Take the USA Hire assessments seriously; use the practice resources provided by the OPM to familiarize yourself with the format.
This role offers a unique intersection of engineering expertise and public advocacy. By joining OSHA, you will use your analytical skills to prevent workplace tragedies and ensure a safer future for thousands of workers. Apply today via the official USAJOBS platform.
Why This Chemical Engineer Job Matters
Advance your engineering career by safeguarding American workers at the U.S. Department of Labor as a Chemical Engineer in Dallas.
Chemical Engineer Job Overview
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is seeking a skilled Chemical Engineer for their Dallas Regional Office. This role focuses on the development and implementation of Process Safety Management Standards (PSMS). You will act as a subject matter expert, assisting area offices in preventing exposure to toxic substances and chemical catastrophes, and ensuring federal compliance across regional industrial facilities.
Requirements for Chemical Engineer
- U.S. Citizenship
- Bachelor's degree in engineering from an ABET-accredited program or equivalent combination of education and experience
- Minimum of one year of specialized experience at the GS-12 federal level or equivalent
- Proficiency in chemical manufacturing industry theories and petrochemical processes
- Experience with fluid dynamics and piping and instrumentation (P&I) diagrams
- Background investigation and potential 1-year probationary period
Preferred Qualifications for Chemical Engineer
- Professional Engineer (PE) licensure or Engineer Intern (EI) certification
- Passed the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) examination
- Demonstrated ability to develop technical training manuals for process safety
- Experience with computer chemical process mapping
- Superior ability to translate complex engineering concepts for interdisciplinary teams
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary package
- ✓Federal health insurance programs
- ✓Life and long-term care insurance
- ✓Retirement planning through the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS)
- ✓Thrift Savings Plan (401k style) with employer matching
- ✓Generous paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays
- ✓Opportunities for telework based on agency policy
💡 How to Apply Chemical Engineer Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Chemical Engineer Job
- Create a profile and upload your resume (max 2 pages) on USAJOBS.
- Submit your initial application via the USAJOBS portal.
- Follow the prompts to the Department of Labor (DOL) site to finalize your application.
- Complete the required vacancy-specific questions and upload supporting documents (transcripts, DD214 if applicable).
- Monitor your email for a unique link to complete the USA Hire Competency Based Assessments.
- Review and certify your final submission before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume explicitly details the month, year, and hours worked for each position to verify your specialized experience.
- Adhere strictly to the two-page limit for your resume, or your application will be automatically rejected.
- Set aside at least two hours to complete the USA Hire assessments; you can save your progress and return later.
- Submit all unofficial transcripts early, as large files may take time to process.
- Verify your status on the USAJOBS dashboard to ensure all sections are checked as complete.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a remote position?
No, this is not a remote position. You will be expected to report to the Dallas, Texas office regularly, though telework options may be available according to agency policy.
What is the education requirement for this engineering role?
You must hold a bachelor's degree in engineering from an ABET-accredited school, or demonstrate equivalent knowledge through specific coursework, professional licensure, or a combination of related scientific degrees and professional engineering experience.
What is the probation period?
New hires may be required to serve a one-year probationary period to evaluate fitness and performance.
Can I submit a cover letter?
Yes, though it is not mandatory and will not be used to verify your technical experience.
Job from Occupational Safety And Health Administration
OSHA, a sub-agency of the Department of Labor, is dedicated to ensuring safe and healthful working conditions for American workers. By setting and enforcing standards and providing training, outreach, and education, OSHA reduces work-related injuries and illnesses. As a member of the Dallas region, you will join a team that serves as a vital resource for both employers and employees.