Lead Innovation at the FDA: Director of the Office of Science and Engineering Laboratories
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) stands as the guardian of public health in the United States. Within the Center for Devices and Radiological Health (CDRH), the Office of Science and Engineering Laboratories (OSEL) acts as the scientific backbone that ensures medical devices are safe, effective, and ready for the future. We are currently recruiting a seasoned scientific leader to serve as the Director of OSEL.
Job Responsibilities
As the Director of OSEL, you will:
- Provide executive leadership for multidisciplinary programs spanning life sciences, engineering, and computational sciences.
- Develop and execute a scientific strategy that anticipates future regulatory challenges.
- Oversee laboratory operations that produce the data required to approve innovative medical technologies.
- Advise senior FDA leadership on critical scientific and engineering matters.
Core Competency Table
| Area of Focus | Responsibility Highlights |
|---|---|
| Scientific Vision | Establishing frameworks for emerging technologies. |
| Resource Management | Allocating funds and staff across multiple labs. |
| Workforce Development | Shaping the technical architecture of the scientific team. |
| Regulatory Impact | Informing decisions through cutting-edge research. |
Requirements
Candidates must be experts in their field. You are required to hold a degree in a physical science, engineering, or mathematics, or a equivalent combination of education and experience. You must also submit official or unofficial transcripts. As this is a high-level executive role, you must demonstrate strong leadership, ethics, and a history of professional excellence.
Salary Overview
This position is compensated under the Title 21 Pay Table 4, Band G, with a competitive annual salary range of $213,491 to $340,795. Final salary determination is based on qualifications and organizational budget.
Benefits
- Comprehensive Health Benefits.
- Federal Retirement System.
- Professional Growth and Development.
- Telework flexibility.
Application Tips
- Be Comprehensive: Ensure your two-page resume lists every detail, including salaries and exact dates.
- Transcript Accuracy: Upload clear, readable copies of all academic transcripts.
- Follow the Portal: Use the USA Staffing/Application Manager portal for all document submissions.
- Seek Help: If you encounter hurdles, contact the FDA Applicant Help Desk.
If you are a visionary leader ready to direct the future of regulatory science, the FDA invites you to apply for the Director of OSEL position. Join us in protecting the nation’s health through science and engineering excellence.
Why This Director, Office Of Science And Engineering Laboratories (Osel) Job Matters
Lead the frontier of medical device innovation and regulatory science as the Director of the Office of Science and Engineering Laboratories at the FDA.
Director, Office Of Science And Engineering Laboratories (Osel) Job Overview
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is seeking a visionary leader to serve as the Director of the Office of Science and Engineering Laboratories (OSEL) within the Center for Devices and Radiological Health (CDRH). In this prestigious executive role, you will helm a multidisciplinary team responsible for pioneering regulatory science, ensuring the safety and effectiveness of medical devices, and establishing frameworks for emerging technologies. This position operates under Title 21 authority, offering a unique opportunity to shape the future of public health through world-class scientific research and strategic management in Silver Spring, Maryland.
Requirements for Director, Office Of Science And Engineering Laboratories (Osel)
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Completion of the online assessment questionnaire.
- Submission of a detailed two-page resume (including salary, hours, and full employer addresses).
- Official or unofficial transcripts verifying degree requirements.
- Must meet education requirements in physical science, engineering, or mathematics (including 24 semester hours in physical/engineering sciences).
- Ability to obtain and maintain necessary security clearances and financial disclosures.
Preferred Qualifications for Director, Office Of Science And Engineering Laboratories (Osel)
- Ph.D. in life sciences or an M.D./Ph.D. degree.
- Advanced research and scientific training relevant to complex regulatory science.
- Demonstrated experience in leading multidisciplinary laboratory programs.
- Proven track record of managing complex scientific and emerging technology evaluations.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary structure (Title 21)
- ✓Comprehensive health and life insurance options
- ✓Federal retirement benefits
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and leadership growth
- ✓Potential for relocation or recruitment incentives (subject to funding)
- ✓Telework eligibility as determined by supervisor
💡 How to Apply Director, Office Of Science And Engineering Laboratories (Osel) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Director, Office Of Science And Engineering Laboratories (Osel) Job
- Create or sign in to a Login.gov account.
- Prepare a comprehensive two-page resume including all required employment details.
- Gather academic transcripts and any supporting documentation.
- Access the USA Staffing/Application Manager portal.
- Complete the mandatory assessment questionnaire and essay questions.
- Submit your application package before the October 28, 2026, deadline.
💡 General Tips
- Start early to avoid technical issues near the closing date.
- Ensure your resume includes month/year dates, salary, and specific hours worked per week for every position listed.
- Use non-secured electronic formats for transcripts to ensure system compatibility.
- Avoid using AI tools for your essay responses as you will be required to certify they are your own original work.
- Call the FDA Applicant Help Desk at 866-807-3742 if you require assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Title 21 appointment?
Title 21 is a streamlined hiring authority under the 21st Century Cures Act, designed to help the FDA recruit highly qualified scientific and technical experts to support its mission.
Can PHS Commissioned Corps Officers apply?
Yes, but if selected, the officer must end their Commissioned Corps appointment prior to assuming the Title 21 position.
Is this position eligible for remote work?
The position is telework-eligible, though specific arrangements are at the discretion of the supervisor.
Is relocation assistance provided?
Incentives like relocation assistance may be authorized, but they are contingent on fund availability and service agreements.
Do I need to disclose my financial interests?
Yes. This position requires financial disclosure (OGE-278) to ensure compliance with FDA ethics and conflict-of-interest regulations.
Job from Food And Drug Administration
The FDA's mission is to protect and promote public health by ensuring the safety of drugs, medical devices, and food. CDRH, specifically, focuses on the diverse range of medical devices that Americans rely on every day. Working at the FDA is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the safety and health of the American public.