Lead the Future of Agricultural Defense: Supervisory Microbiologist Position
Are you a dedicated scientist looking to make a significant impact on national biosecurity? The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) is currently hiring a Supervisory Microbiologist to join the elite team at the National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility (NBAF) in Manhattan, Kansas. This is a premier opportunity for a subject matter expert to lead high-level research and diagnostic operations that safeguard the nation’s livestock and agricultural industry.
About the Agency: Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)
The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) is the primary agency within the USDA charged with protecting the health and care of animals and plants. APHIS operates on the front lines of international and domestic trade, ensuring that the U.S. food supply remains safe and robust. Working at the NBAF means joining a facility designed to address some of the most significant biological threats to agriculture, providing a career that is as meaningful as it is challenging.
Job Responsibilities
As a Supervisory Microbiologist (GS-12), you will serve as a technical and operational leader. Your day-to-day duties include:
- Team Leadership: Supervising laboratory staff, managing recruitment, and addressing performance to ensure high-functioning diagnostic output.
- Expert Consultation: Serving as a subject matter expert for APHIS, the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE), and the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO).
- Method Development: Identifying, testing, and implementing new diagnostic workflows to improve the accuracy and efficiency of disease detection.
- Quality Management: Directing quality assurance activities that align with strict federal standards.
Requirements
Candidates must meet the following criteria by the closing date:
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Education | Degree in microbiology, biology, or chemistry with 20+ hours in microbiology and 20+ in physical/mathematical sciences. |
| Experience | 1 year of specialized experience at the GS-11 level or equivalent. |
| Technical Skills | Proven experience in BSL3/BSL4 environments and animal pathogen diagnostic methods. |
| Security | Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret-level security clearance. |
Salary Overview
The position offers a competitive salary range of $89,508 – $116,362 per year. This compensation reflects the high level of technical expertise and leadership responsibilities required for the role.
Benefits
Federal employees enjoy a robust benefits package, including:
- Comprehensive Health Insurance
- Federal Retirement System (FERS)
- Generous Paid Time Off
- Opportunities for promotion potential to GS-13
Application Tips
- Keep it Concise: Your resume must not exceed two pages. Prioritize impact statements over lists of routine tasks.
- Highlight Specialized Skills: Ensure your resume explicitly mentions your experience with BSL3 or BSL4 containment protocols.
- Use Official Transcripts: While unofficial copies are allowed for the application, ensure they are legible and clearly show the required coursework.
- Prepare for Assessments: The USA Hire assessment is a critical component of the selection process. Utilize the online practice tools available to familiarize yourself with the format.
This position is more than a job; it is a vital role in national security. If you have the expertise, leadership experience, and passion for protecting the agricultural health of the United States, we encourage you to submit your application before the closing date. Take the next step in your scientific career today.
Why This Supervisory Microbiologist Job Matters
Lead critical research at the forefront of agricultural defense as a Supervisory Microbiologist at the National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility.
Supervisory Microbiologist Job Overview
The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) is seeking a skilled Supervisory Microbiologist to join the team at the National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility (NBAF) in Manhattan, Kansas. This role involves leading a high-impact veterinary diagnostic unit focused on protecting national livestock from transboundary diseases. As a Subject Matter Expert, you will direct quality assurance, oversee diagnostic method development, and collaborate with international partners to safeguard American agriculture.
Requirements for Supervisory Microbiologist
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Completion of a degree in microbiology, or a related field (biology, chemistry) with at least 20 semester hours in microbiology and 20 semester hours in physical/mathematical sciences.
- One year of specialized experience at the GS-11 level or equivalent.
- Proven experience in BSL3 and/or BSL4 containment laboratory environments.
- Proficiency in animal pathogen diagnosis, including molecular, serological, and virus isolation methods.
- Proven history of assay development, troubleshooting, and diagnostic method evaluation.
- Must be able to pass a background check for a Secret-level security clearance.
- Must pass mandatory drug testing.
- Resume limit of two pages.
Preferred Qualifications for Supervisory Microbiologist
- Demonstrated leadership capabilities in supervising technical personnel.
- Experience in cross-functional collaboration with international organizations like the OIE or FAO.
- Expertise in creating and executing quality management systems within a laboratory setting.
- Strong communication skills for presenting complex technical data to diverse audiences.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Federal salary and benefits package.
- ✓Opportunities for professional growth and potential for promotion to GS-13.
- ✓Access to Federal health, dental, and vision insurance programs.
- ✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- ✓Paid annual and sick leave.
- ✓Telework opportunities where eligible.
💡 How to Apply Supervisory Microbiologist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Supervisory Microbiologist Job
- Create or update your profile on USAJOBS.gov.
- Prepare a resume that does not exceed two pages, detailing your relevant experience and supervisor contact information.
- Submit your application and complete the online Occupational Questionnaire via the link provided.
- Complete the USA Hire Competency Based Assessments if notified via email.
- Monitor your application status through the USAJOBS dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume specifically addresses the BSL3/4 experience and diagnostic method development mentioned in the major duties.
- Double-check that your transcripts are legible and clearly show the required semester hours in microbiology and physical sciences.
- Use the 'Application Status' feature in USAJOBS to track progress rather than waiting for email updates.
- Submit your documents as PDF or Word files under 5MB to avoid system errors during transfer.
- Contact the agency help desk well before the deadline if you encounter technical issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is relocation assistance provided for this position?
No, relocation, travel, and transportation expenses will not be paid for this position.
What is the security clearance requirement?
This position requires a Secret security clearance and is classified as a Noncritical-Sensitive (NCS)/Moderate Risk position.
Can I use education to qualify for the GS-12 level?
No, there is no education substitution for the GS-12 level; you must possess the required year of specialized experience.
Is relocation assistance provided?
*A: No, the agency will not pay for relocation or travel expenses.*
Can I apply if I have a PhD?
*A: While advanced education is an asset, you must still meet the specific specialized experience requirements at the GS-11 level to qualify for the GS-12 position.*