Become a DEA Pharmacologist: Protecting Public Health Through Science

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) represents the front line in the battle against illegal substance trafficking and the misuse of controlled substances. As a Pharmacologist within the Diversion Control Division, you are not just an employee; you are a key scientific advisor whose work directly impacts the legal and regulatory framework of the United States. This position offers a rare chance to bridge the gap between rigorous scientific research and high-stakes national policy.

Job Responsibilities

In this role, you will serve as a senior scientific authority. Key responsibilities include:

Policy Implementation: Advise leadership on the pharmacological implications of the Controlled Substances Act (CSA).
Scientific Research: Conduct and synthesize research on the long-term effects of various drug compounds.
Database Management: Oversee critical drug and chemical database systems to monitor diversion trends.
Expert Testimony: Represent the agency as a subject matter expert in legal and public forums.

Requirements

To be eligible, candidates must meet both educational and experience benchmarks:

Basic Education: A degree with a major in a biological, medical, veterinary, or physical science, including specific semester hour requirements in chemistry, physiology, and pharmacology.
Specialized Experience: At least one year of experience at the next lower grade level (GS-12 for GS-13; GS-13 for GS-14) performing functions equivalent to federal pharmacology duties.

Grade Comparison Table

Feature	GS-13 Level	GS-14 Level
Scope	Complex research & database management	Senior policy development & expert testimony
Impact	Resolving operational problems	Shaping agency regulation & legal strategy
Experience	Equivalent to GS-12	Equivalent to GS-13

Salary and Benefits

This position offers a competitive federal salary ranging from $121,785 to $187,093 annually. Federal employees enjoy a robust benefits package including:

Health, Dental, and Vision coverage.
Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching contributions.
Generous annual leave and federal holiday schedules.

Application Tips

Tailor Your Resume: Keep your resume under two pages, focusing on quantitative achievements and clear duty descriptions.
Documentation: Ensure all transcripts are attached and clearly show the required chemistry/pharmacology hours.
Honesty: The assessment questionnaire requires a commitment to original work. Do not use AI tools for your responses.

Serving as a Pharmacologist for the DEA is a career-defining opportunity to use your scientific expertise for the public good. If you have the drive, the education, and the specialized experience, we encourage you to apply for this vital role in Arlington, Virginia.

Why This Pharmacologist Job Matters

Shape the future of public safety and drug control policy at the highest levels of federal enforcement.

Pharmacologist Job Overview

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is seeking a highly qualified Pharmacologist for its Diversion Control Division in Arlington, Virginia. In this vital role, you will influence the implementation of the Controlled Substances Act, conduct critical scientific research on drug compounds, and provide expert testimony to safeguard public health.

Requirements for Pharmacologist

U.S. Citizenship
Background investigation and Top Secret security clearance
Completion of a pre-employment drug test
One year of specialized experience at the next lower grade level (GS-12 for GS-13 applicants; GS-13 for GS-14 applicants)
Degree in a biological, medical, veterinary, or physical science, or pharmacy
Minimum of 30 semester hours in chemistry and physiology and 12 semester hours in pharmacology
Submission of a resume not exceeding two pages

Preferred Qualifications for Pharmacologist

Proven track record of serving as a scientific advisor in pharmacology
Expertise in Controlled Substances Act (CSA) implementation
Experience developing regulatory or agency policy presentations
History of serving as an expert witness in court proceedings regarding substance abuse
Ability to manage complex drug and chemical databases

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive federal salary and step increases
✓Comprehensive health insurance options
✓Federal retirement benefits including FERS
✓Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching
✓Paid annual and sick leave
✓Opportunities for professional development

💡 How to Apply Pharmacologist Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Pharmacologist Job

Register or sign in to your USAJOBS account.
Draft and upload a resume (maximum two pages).
Complete the mandatory online assessment questionnaire.
Submit required documentation, including transcripts and SF-50 forms if applicable.
Monitor your status through the USAJOBS dashboard.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume includes start/end dates, hours per week, and detailed descriptions of duties.
Address all competencies highlighted in the evaluation section within your resume.
Draft the free-response essays thoughtfully as they showcase your dedication to public service.
Verify that your transcript explicitly lists the required 30 hours of chemistry/physiology and 12 hours of pharmacology.
Submit your application at least 48 hours before the closing date to avoid technical delays.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary mission of this role?

The Pharmacologist provides senior scientific advice on the pharmacological action of substances, manages drug control databases, and assists in the enforcement of the Controlled Substances Act.

Is telework available for this position?

No, this specific position is not listed as eligible for telework.

How long is the probationary period?

Upon appointment, you will likely be required to serve a one-year probationary or trial period to evaluate your fitness for federal service.

Job from Drug Enforcement Administration

The DEA is a mission-driven organization dedicated to enforcing the controlled substance laws and regulations of the United States. By working for the Diversion Control Division, you join a team tasked with preventing, detecting, and investigating the diversion of controlled pharmaceuticals and listed chemicals from legitimate sources. It is demanding, high-impact work that requires technical expertise and unwavering integrity.