Advance Your Career as a Supervisory Microbiologist with the USDA

Are you a seasoned microbiologist looking to make a significant impact on national security and agricultural health? The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) is currently seeking a highly skilled Supervisory Microbiologist to join the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) team at the National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility (NBAF) in Manhattan, Kansas.

Job Responsibilities

As a Supervisory Microbiologist, you will lead a dedicated unit of scientific professionals. Your primary duties include:

Unit Leadership: Setting performance standards, prioritizing daily lab assignments, and coordinating with other unit managers.
Technical Oversight: Providing expert advice on DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, sequencing, and diagnostic assay development.
Rapid Response: Maintaining a structure that allows the lab to respond to complex technical issues within a two-hour window.
Quality Assurance: Ensuring all operations adhere to the National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) quality management systems.

Requirements

Candidates must demonstrate both educational background and professional experience. Key requirements include:

Education: A degree in microbiology or a related scientific field with at least 20 semester hours in microbiology and 20 in physical/mathematical sciences.
Experience: One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-9 grade level, focusing on technical advice, diagnostic testing, and reporting.
Clearance: Ability to pass a background check for a Secret-level security clearance.
Compliance: Adherence to select agent and toxin regulations (9 CFR Part 121).

Comparison Table: Qualifications and Skills

Feature	Requirement	Importance
Academic Background	Microbiology/Chemistry Degree	Fundamental
Leadership	Supervisory/Mentorship Experience	Critical
Technical Skills	Molecular Assay/PCR Proficiency	Critical
Clearance	Secret Level Security	Required

Salary and Benefits

The position offers a competitive salary range of $74,678 to $97,087 annually. In addition to a stable federal salary, you will receive a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

Comprehensive health and life insurance options.
Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
Accrued annual and sick leave.
Opportunities for federal professional growth and training.

Application Tips

To ensure your application is successful:

Tailor Your Resume: Explicitly link your experience to the duties mentioned above. Keep it strictly under two pages.
Documentation: Ensure all transcripts are included if you are using education to qualify.
Follow Procedures: Use the USAJOBS portal to submit all required documents and monitor your application status regularly.

If you are prepared to lead diagnostic innovation in a high-stakes environment, the Supervisory Microbiologist role at the USDA is an excellent step forward. Apply today to help secure the future of American agriculture.

Why This Supervisory Microbiologist Job Matters

Lead cutting-edge diagnostic research at the National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility—protect America’s agricultural health.

Supervisory Microbiologist Job Overview

The USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) is seeking a dedicated Supervisory Microbiologist to join the elite team at the National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility (NBAF) in Manhattan, Kansas. In this pivotal leadership role, you will oversee laboratory operations, mentor scientific staff, and manage critical diagnostic testing for high-consequence transboundary animal diseases. You will ensure the highest standards of quality assurance while collaborating with global partners to safeguard domestic and international animal health.

Requirements for Supervisory Microbiologist

Must meet all qualification requirements, including time-in-grade, by the announcement closing date.
Possess a degree in microbiology, biology, chemistry, or a related basic medical science with at least 20 semester hours in microbiology and 20 semester hours in physical/mathematical sciences.
Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret-level security clearance.
Must pass a pre-employment drug screening.
Must adhere to 9 CFR Part 121 regulations regarding select agents and toxins.
Resume must not exceed two pages; longer resumes will be disqualified.
Must be a U.S. Citizen.

Preferred Qualifications for Supervisory Microbiologist

Demonstrated experience in diagnostic assay development (PCR, RT-PCR, sequencing, DNA/RNA extraction).
Proven ability to provide technical guidance and mentorship to laboratory staff.
Experience in coordinating high-priority testing and managing laboratory workflow improvements.
Graduate degree (Ph.D. or equivalent) in Animal Science, Virology, Immunology, or Molecular Biology.
Expertise in regulatory compliance and quality management systems.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Federal health insurance plans.
✓Comprehensive life insurance coverage.
✓Retirement program including FERS (Federal Employees Retirement System).
✓Paid federal holidays and leave accrual.
✓Flexible work schedules and telework opportunities.
✓Career advancement and professional development programs.

💡 How to Apply Supervisory Microbiologist Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Supervisory Microbiologist Job

Register for an account on USAJOBS.gov and upload a comprehensive, two-page resume.
Review the full vacancy announcement thoroughly to understand all required documentation.
Click 'Apply Online' to access the occupational questionnaire.
Attach required documents, including transcripts and, if applicable, SF-50 forms.
Submit your application package electronically before 11:59 p.m. ET on the closing date.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume specifically addresses the core competencies mentioned in the job description.
Use clear examples of how you have led teams or managed laboratory workflows in your previous roles.
Verify that your uploaded documents are not encrypted and are under the 5MB limit.
Check your application status regularly via your USAJOBS portal.
Submit your documents well before the deadline to avoid last-minute technical issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is relocation assistance provided for this position?

No, relocation, travel, and transportation expenses will not be paid for this vacancy.

What is the maximum page length for my resume?

Your resume must not exceed two pages. Applications with longer resumes will be removed from consideration.

Is this position eligible for telework?

Yes, this position is eligible for telework, subject to agency policy and supervisory approval.

What if I don't have a Ph.D.?

*A: You may qualify through a combination of graduate education and professional experience, provided you meet the minimum 100% credit requirements defined in the announcement.*

Is there an opportunity for promotion?

*A: Yes, this position carries promotion potential to the GS-12 level, subject to management recommendation and successful performance.*

Job from Animal And Plant Health Inspection Service

The USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) plays a critical role in protecting the health and care of animals and plants across the United States. By facilitating international trade and maintaining robust diagnostic capabilities, APHIS serves as the first line of defense against animal diseases. Working at the NBAF offers the unique opportunity to operate within a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to high-consequence transboundary animal disease research.