Aviation Safety Specialist: A Career at the Intersection of Policy and Flight
Are you an expert in aviation regulations with a passion for safety management? The Department of Energy (DOE) is currently hiring an Aviation Safety Specialist for its Office of Science in Richland, Washington. This position is a unique opportunity to shape the safety culture and regulatory framework of an agency critical to the nation's scientific advancements.
Job Responsibilities
The successful candidate will act as the designated Aviation Manager and Aviation Safety Officer. Your core duties will include:
- Developing and reviewing safety documentation for all aircraft and UAS operations.
- Providing technical guidance to personnel and contractors to ensure compliance with 14 CFR parts 91, 121, 133, and 135.
- Conducting rigorous on-site audits of laboratories and commercial aviation providers.
- Leading mishap and incident investigations to identify hazards and implement corrective actions.
- Establishing long-range safety goals and preparing executive reports.
Requirements
This is a senior-level position requiring specific experience. You must possess at least one year of specialized experience at the GS-13 level, demonstrating expertise in aviation law and operations.
| Requirement Type | Criteria |
|---|---|
| Experience Level | GS-13 Equivalent |
| Regulatory Focus | 14 CFR Parts 91, 121, 133, 135 |
| Submission Limit | Maximum 2 Pages |
| Citizenship | United States Citizen |
Salary Overview
This position is graded at the GS-14 level, offering a highly competitive salary range of $125,776 to $163,514 per year. Compensation reflects the high level of technical responsibility and safety oversight inherent in the role.
Benefits
Federal employees enjoy a robust benefits package, including:
- Comprehensive health and life insurance.
- Generous retirement planning through the FERS and Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
- Continuous training and professional development opportunities.
Application Tips
- Focus on Quality: Since there is a two-page resume limit, ensure every word counts by highlighting your direct experience with federal aviation regulations.
- Formatting Matters: Use the recommended fonts like Lato or Arial and keep margins at 0.5 inches to ensure your document remains professional and within the page limit.
- Verify Status: If you are a veteran or eligible for a special hiring authority, ensure your documentation (DD-214, Schedule A letters) is included to receive proper consideration.
If you possess the aviation expertise and the drive to improve safety standards within the federal government, this position at the Pacific Northwest Site Office offers a challenging and rewarding career path. Ensure your application is complete and reflects your specialized skills to be considered for this high-impact role.
Why This Aviation Safety Specialist Job Matters
Elevate your career in aviation safety with the Department of Energy, where your technical expertise directly impacts national scientific operations and safety standards.
Aviation Safety Specialist Job Overview
The Department of Energy’s Office of Science, Pacific Northwest Site Office, is seeking a dedicated Aviation Safety Specialist to join their team in Richland, Washington. This role is pivotal in managing aviation safety programs, ensuring compliance with federal mandates, and overseeing operations involving both crewed and unmanned aircraft systems. You will serve as a key technical advisor, conducting audits and fostering a culture of safety across site office aviation programs.
Requirements for Aviation Safety Specialist
- Must have at least one year of specialized experience at the GS-13 grade level.
- Proven track record applying aviation laws, regulations, and policies in inspection, investigation, or enforcement.
- Professional experience with manned and unmanned aircraft under 14 CFR Parts 91, 121, 133, and/or 135.
- Expertise in civil aircraft operations and maintenance regulations.
- Must submit a maximum two-page resume to be considered.
- Ability to pass a background investigation.
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
Preferred Qualifications for Aviation Safety Specialist
- Experience developing departmental aviation safety metrics.
- Proven ability to conduct on-site compliance audits of commercial aviation providers.
- Success in investigating and reporting on flight mishaps.
- Strong technical leadership skills regarding flight operations and contractor management.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance programs.
- ✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- ✓Paid federal holidays and generous leave accrual.
- ✓Access to the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching.
- ✓Professional development and training opportunities.
💡 How to Apply Aviation Safety Specialist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Aviation Safety Specialist Job
- Review the full announcement details and requirements thoroughly.
- Prepare your two-page federal resume according to the specific formatting guidelines provided.
- Create or update your account on USAJOBS.
- Complete the online assessment questionnaire when prompted.
- Upload required documentation, including SF-50 if a current/former federal employee, or proof of veteran/disability status if applicable.
- Submit your application package before the 11:59 PM EST closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Stick strictly to the two-page limit; extra pages will not be reviewed.
- Use standard, easy-to-read fonts like Arial or Calibri at 10-point size for the main text.
- Focus your resume on specific competencies rather than providing a separate narrative statement.
- Ensure your resume includes full names, addresses, and salary information for previous employers.
- Submit as a PDF to preserve your document formatting.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary role of this position?
The Aviation Safety Specialist serves as a designated Aviation Manager and Safety Officer, ensuring that all aviation activities within the Office of Science comply with DOE and federal aviation regulations.
Is telework available?
No, this position is not currently eligible for telework.
Can I use AI tools to help draft my application responses?
No. The use of AI tools such as ChatGPT or similar platforms to generate assessment responses is strictly prohibited and can result in your removal from consideration.
What is the closing date for this announcement?
The application window closes on November 9, 2026.
Are there education requirements?
There is no formal education requirement; however, specialized experience in the field is mandatory.
Job from Department Of Energy Headquarters
The Office of Science at the Department of Energy is one of the largest supporters of basic research in the physical sciences in the United States. Within this agency, the Pacific Northwest Site Office plays a vital role in ensuring that aviation operations—whether crewed or unmanned—adhere to the highest standards of safety and efficiency.