Lead Innovation at the FDA: Director, Office of Science and Engineering Laboratories
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) stands at the intersection of public safety and technological progress. As the agency charged with ensuring the safety and effectiveness of every medical device used in the United States, the FDA relies on the expertise of top-tier scientists and engineers. We are currently seeking a Director for the Office of Science and Engineering Laboratories (OSEL) to lead this critical mission.
Job Responsibilities
As the Director, you will perform a variety of high-level duties:
- Executive Leadership: Directing a complex, multidisciplinary scientific organization.
- Strategic Vision: Setting the research agenda for test methods and computational models.
- Policy Advisement: Providing technical guidance to senior FDA leadership regarding device regulation.
- Collaborative Partnerships: Working with industry leaders, academic institutions, and international regulators to shape the future of medical science.
Requirements
Candidates must possess a solid foundation in engineering or a related physical science. Whether through a formal degree or a combination of education and expert experience, your background must reflect the rigor required for this federal role. A key element is demonstrating technical competence through professional licensure or equivalent academic achievement.
Requirements Comparison Table
| Criteria | Essential Requirement | Preferred Attribute |
|---|---|---|
| Education | Engineering/Physical Science Degree | Ph.D. or M.D./Ph.D. |
| Experience | Professional engineering experience | Research leadership in life sciences |
| Licensure | PE or EIT desirable | Advanced scientific certification |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a highly competitive compensation package commensurate with executive federal roles, ranging from $213,491 to $340,795 per year. Beyond the salary, employees gain access to the full federal benefits suite, including retirement, health insurance, and paid leave.
This role offers a unique chance to steer the direction of medical device regulation. If you have the leadership and scientific vision to guide the OSEL team, we encourage you to submit your application before the October 28, 2026, deadline.
Why This Director, Office Of Science And Engineering Laboratories (Osel) Job Matters
Lead the future of medical device innovation at the FDA as the Director of OSEL, where cutting-edge engineering meets life-saving public health policy.
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 high-impact executive role, you will oversee multidisciplinary scientific research, set the regulatory science strategy for medical devices, and manage an elite workforce dedicated to ensuring the safety and effectiveness of products that reach millions of Americans.
Requirements for Director, Office Of Science And Engineering Laboratories (Osel)
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Degree in engineering from an ABET-accredited institution, or a combination of education and experience that demonstrates equivalent knowledge in physical and mathematical sciences.
- Professional licensure or registration (EIT/PE) or equivalent academic coursework as specified in the announcement.
- Demonstrated professional experience in engineering science, physics, or related fields.
- Must meet all qualifications by the closing date of 10/28/2026.
- Ability to obtain and maintain necessary security clearance and financial disclosure requirements.
Preferred Qualifications for Director, Office Of Science And Engineering Laboratories (Osel)
- Possession of a Ph.D. in life sciences or a dual M.D./Ph.D. degree.
- Advanced research experience relevant to medical devices or radiation-emitting products.
- Demonstrated history of leading large-scale, multidisciplinary scientific or regulatory programs.
- Expertise in bridging academic research with practical regulatory applications.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary within the Title 21 pay structure.
- ✓Comprehensive health and life insurance options.
- ✓Federal retirement benefits including FERS and Thrift Savings Plan.
- ✓Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives based on funding.
- ✓Flexible telework arrangements at the discretion of the supervisor.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning.
💡 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 update your account at login.gov.
- Build a detailed federal resume highlighting your leadership and engineering accomplishments.
- Prepare your academic transcripts and proof of licensure.
- Complete the online questionnaire via the FDA application portal.
- Submit your application and all supporting documents before the 11:59 PM EST deadline on October 28, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume includes month/year of employment and hours worked per week for every position.
- Avoid using automated AI tools to write your responses to the questionnaire.
- Review your electronic transcripts to ensure they are not security-locked, as this may block automated reading.
- Start early to account for potential technical issues with the application portal.
- If you have served as a political appointee in the last 5 years, ensure your SF-50 is ready.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a remote position?
No, this position is located in Silver Spring, Maryland, though it is telework eligible at the discretion of the supervisor.
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.
What is the pay scale for this position?
This position is recruited under the Title 21 Pay Table 4, Band G, with a range of $213,491 to $340,795.
Job from Food And Drug Administration
The Center for Devices and Radiological Health (CDRH) operates within the FDA to promote and protect public health. OSEL serves as the scientific core of the Center, providing the technical expertise necessary to evaluate medical devices and radiation-emitting products. Working here means joining a team dedicated to transparency, integrity, and scientific excellence.