Become an Interdisciplinary Scientist: Protecting Public Health with HHS
Are you looking to pivot your scientific expertise toward a career of national importance? The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is currently seeking an Interdisciplinary Scientist for its Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response (ASPR). This is a unique opportunity to play a leadership role in the Industrial Base Management and Supply Chain (IBMSC) office, ensuring the nation is equipped to handle emerging health, safety, and security threats.
Job Responsibilities
As an Interdisciplinary Scientist, your day-to-day work involves high-level strategic oversight. Key responsibilities include:
- Contract Administration: Overseeing the full life cycle of acquisition contracts, from post-award orientation to monitoring contractor performance.
- Technical Oversight: Providing scientific expertise on manufacturing, regulatory quality, and clinical testing for advanced development programs.
- Program Management: Coordinating schedules, costs, and performance goals for vaccine and medical countermeasure projects.
- Stakeholder Liaison: Acting as the primary bridge between technical teams, logistics support, and agency leadership.
Requirements and Qualifications
This position requires a sophisticated blend of scientific knowledge and administrative skill. To qualify, you must possess:
- Education: A degree in a relevant physical or life science (e.g., Chemistry, Biology, Physics, or Engineering).
- Experience: A minimum of one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-13 level in the federal sector.
- Documentation: Proof of specialized experience in acquisition management and scientific oversight is mandatory.
Requirements Comparison
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Education | Degree in physical/biological science or related field |
| Experience | 1+ year at GS-13 level or equivalent |
| Security | Must pass high-risk security/suitability screening |
| Location | Washington, D.C. |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $143,913 to $187,093 per year. Beyond the base salary, federal employees enjoy comprehensive benefits, including robust health insurance options, federal retirement programs, and the ability to balance work-life through telework arrangements.
Application Tips
To ensure your application is successful, keep your resume concise and focused. Do not exceed two pages and ensure that every listed position includes the month and year of employment. Use the USAJOBS Resume Builder for best results. Most importantly, ensure your application package is complete before submitting, as the position closes once 75 applications are received.
If you have the scientific background and project management prowess to contribute to the nation's health security, this is the position for you. By joining the HHS, you are not just getting a job; you are serving your country and ensuring a safer future for all Americans.
Why This Interdisciplinary Scientist Job Matters
Shape the future of public health security and lead critical medical countermeasure initiatives at the federal level.
Interdisciplinary Scientist Job Overview
The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is seeking a highly skilled Interdisciplinary Scientist to join the Industrial Base Management and Supply Chain (IBMSC) Office. In this pivotal role, you will perform essential contract administration, provide technical oversight for pharmaceutical manufacturing, and manage complex acquisition programs for life-saving medical countermeasures.
Requirements for Interdisciplinary Scientist
- One year of specialized experience at the GS-13 grade level (or equivalent).
- Expertise in managing complex acquisition processes and ensuring compliance with Federal Acquisition Regulations.
- Proven experience in the technical oversight of pharmaceutical manufacturing, clinical testing, and regulatory quality control.
- Demonstrated ability to coordinate biodefense research and development initiatives.
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Subject to drug screening and high-risk security clearance requirements.
Preferred Qualifications for Interdisciplinary Scientist
- Advanced knowledge of federal procurement and internal agency acquisition policies.
- Strong background in medical countermeasure lifecycle management.
- Experience serving as a liaison between diverse stakeholder groups and executive leadership.
- Expertise in managing budget, schedule, and performance tracking for advanced development programs.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary and benefits package.
- ✓Opportunities for professional growth and skill development.
- ✓Meaningful work contributing to national public health emergency preparedness.
- ✓Collaboration with world-class experts in science and policy.
- ✓Telework eligibility as permitted by agency policy.
💡 How to Apply Interdisciplinary Scientist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Interdisciplinary Scientist Job
- Prepare a resume not exceeding two pages, detailing your specific duties, accomplishments, and dates of employment.
- Log in to your USAJOBS account and complete the required occupational questionnaire.
- Submit your resume along with necessary supporting documents like your SF-50.
- Ensure all documentation is submitted before the application limit of 75 applicants or the closing date is reached.
- Monitor your status through your USAJOBS account dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Your resume must clearly show how you meet the GS-13 level specialized experience requirements.
- Use the USAJOBS Resume Builder to ensure no critical formatting or information is missing.
- Be specific with your dates of employment (MM/YY) and average hours worked per week.
- Avoid copying and pasting duties directly from the job announcement.
- Ensure any foreign education credentials have been formally evaluated for U.S. equivalency.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary mission of the IBMSC office?
The Industrial Base Management and Supply Chain office focuses on the development and acquisition of critical medical countermeasures to ensure the U.S. is prepared for public health emergencies.
Is this a remote position?
No, this position is located in Washington, D.C., though it may be eligible for telework according to agency policy.
What happens if I don't provide my SF-50?
Failure to provide all required documentation, including the SF-50 if applicable, may result in your application being deemed incomplete and disqualified.
What is the security level for this role?
*A: This is a special-sensitive, high-risk position requiring rigorous background investigations.*
Is there any travel required?
*A: Travel requirements are inherent to federal project management and may occur as needed.*
Job from Administration For Strategic Preparedness And Response
The Department of Health and Human Services is the federal government's primary agency for protecting the health of all Americans. Through the ASPR and the IBMSC office, the agency manages the critical infrastructure necessary for medical countermeasure development. From vaccines to emergency medical supplies, the work performed by HHS employees touches the lives of every citizen, providing a foundation of safety and resilience.