Lead Talent Strategy at the FDA: Human Resources Specialist (Executive Resources)
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is more than a regulatory body; it is a pillar of American public health. Every day, the agency ensures the safety of food, medical devices, and pharmaceuticals. To maintain its world-class scientific workforce, the FDA requires elite administrative support. We are currently seeking a Human Resources Specialist (Recruitment & Placement/Executive Resources) to join our Office of Operations in North Bethesda, Maryland.
Job Responsibilities
This role is not your typical HR position. It requires a sophisticated understanding of federal staffing laws and the ability to navigate executive-level placement.
- Executive Advisory: Act as a subject matter expert for Senior Executive Service (SES) and Scientific and Professional (ST/SL) hiring.
- Strategic Recruitment: Design and implement innovative outreach strategies to attract top-tier professionals.
- Compensation Management: Conduct salary analyses and prepare incentive packages to secure high-demand talent.
- Policy Implementation: Interpret and apply complex HR mandates under Title 21 authority.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, you must possess the following by the closing date of October 30, 2026:
- Six years of qualifying professional experience in HR staffing and recruitment.
- Demonstrated ability to advise leadership on high-stakes HR issues.
- Proficiency in coordinating ranking panels and managing vacancy announcements.
| Feature | Requirement Detail |
|---|---|
| Closing Date | October 30, 2026 |
| Location | North Bethesda, MD |
| Salary | $121,785 - $169,583 |
| Travel | Minimal |
Salary Overview
This position is recruited under the Title 21 Pay Table 7, Band C. The salary range for this role is between $121,785 and $169,583 per year, commensurate with qualifications and the specific requirements of the role.
Benefits
Employees of the FDA enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including:
- Access to the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- Federal health and life insurance options.
- Flexibility in work arrangements, including telework options.
- Opportunities for continuous professional growth within a prestigious federal agency.
Application Tips
- Resume Precision: Your resume must be detailed. Include specific dates (month/year), hours worked per week, and a breakdown of your duties.
- Documentation: Ensure all required supporting documents, such as SF-50s or transcripts, are uploaded before the deadline.
- Clarity: Ensure your responses to the online questionnaire are original. Authenticity is a core requirement of this hiring process.
If you are a driven HR professional looking to apply your expertise to a mission that saves lives, the FDA is your destination. Apply today to help us continue our vital work for the American people.
Why This Human Resources Specialist (Recruitment & Placement/Executive Resources) Job Matters
Join the FDA’s elite talent operations team and shape the future of public health through strategic executive recruitment and placement.
Human Resources Specialist (Recruitment & Placement/Executive Resources) Job Overview
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is seeking a highly skilled Human Resources Specialist to support the Office of Talent and Workforce Solutions. This role is instrumental in identifying and securing top-tier leadership talent to advance the agency’s critical public health mission. Operating under Title 21 hiring authority, you will manage executive-level placement strategies, navigate complex HR regulations, and partner with agency leadership to build the workforce of tomorrow.
Requirements for Human Resources Specialist (Recruitment & Placement/Executive Resources)
- Six years of qualifying experience in staffing and recruitment.
- Proven track record of interpreting and applying complex HR laws and executive orders.
- Experience advising senior leadership on high-level HR matters.
- Technical proficiency in coordinating ranking panels and preparing vacancy announcements.
- Expertise in compensation analysis, salary recommendations, and recruitment incentives.
- Submit a resume clearly detailing duties, salary, and employment dates.
Preferred Qualifications for Human Resources Specialist (Recruitment & Placement/Executive Resources)
- Experience supporting Senior Executive Service (SES) personnel.
- Background in Senior Level/Scientific and Professional (SL/ST) recruitment.
- Experience with Senior Biomedical Product Assessment Service (SBRBPAS) personnel management.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Federal Salary
- ✓Telework opportunities (at supervisor discretion)
- ✓Professional development and training
- ✓Opportunity to impact national public health initiatives
- ✓Access to federal retirement and insurance programs
💡 How to Apply Human Resources Specialist (Recruitment & Placement/Executive Resources) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Human Resources Specialist (Recruitment & Placement/Executive Resources) Job
- Register for an account at Login.gov.
- Prepare a detailed two-page resume following the specified format requirements.
- Log in to the USAJOBS portal to start your application.
- Complete the online questionnaire in the Application Manager system.
- Submit all required documents, including SF-50s if applicable.
- Confirm submission before the 11:59 PM EST deadline on October 30, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume includes month and year for all start/end dates to avoid disqualification.
- Be descriptive in your duties; clearly define the 'who, what, and how' of your experience.
- Start your application early to navigate the questionnaire and ensure all documents are properly uploaded.
- Review your responses carefully, as you cannot make changes after the closing date.
- Utilize the FDA Applicant Help Desk if you encounter technical issues within the Application Manager portal.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Title 21 hiring authority?
Title 21 is a streamlined hiring authority under the 21st Century Cures Act, designed to allow the FDA to hire specialized talent more efficiently to support its unique scientific and public health mission.
Can I substitute education for experience?
No, there is no education substitution for this specific position at the Band C level; candidates must meet the six-year professional experience requirement.
Does this position offer relocation incentives?
Incentives may be authorized based on funding availability and need; however, they are not guaranteed.
Is veterans' preference applicable?
No, this position is filled under Title 21 authority, which does not utilize traditional rating and ranking, therefore veterans' preference does not apply.
Can I update my application after the closing date?
No, applications are locked once the posting closes on October 30, 2026.
Job from Food And Drug Administration
The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), specifically the FDA, is dedicated to protecting the health of the public. Our work impacts the lives of every American. By joining the Office of Talent and Workforce Solutions, you will operate at the intersection of public policy and human capital management, ensuring that the best scientific minds are brought into the federal fold.