Advance Your Scientific Career: Become a Chemist with the FDA
Are you an expert in chemical characterization looking to make a national impact? The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is currently recruiting for a Chemist position within the Center for Tobacco Products (CTP). This role offers the unique opportunity to integrate advanced laboratory science into regulatory frameworks that protect the health of every American.
About the Center for Tobacco Products
The CTP is tasked with implementing the Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act. By assessing and fostering scientific research, the center regulates tobacco products to minimize their public health footprint. Working here means you are part of a mission-driven organization that values innovation, evidence-based decision-making, and public safety.
Role Responsibilities
As a Chemist at the GS-13 level, your work will be multifaceted. Key responsibilities include:
- Scientific Analysis: Investigating the chemical composition of tobacco and aerosolized products.
- Knowledge Management: Identifying and filling gaps in current laboratory data.
- Policy Development: Collaborating with legal and policy teams to develop guidance documents.
- Communication: Translating dense scientific data into language that non-scientists can grasp to support public policy.
Requirements Overview
Candidates must demonstrate both academic proficiency and professional experience. Below is a snapshot of requirements:
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Education | Degree in physical/life sciences or engineering (30 hours chemistry, math through calculus, 6 hours physics) |
| Experience | 1 year of specialized experience at the GS-12 level |
| Deadline | Applications close November 4, 2026 |
| Status | U.S. Citizenship required |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary ranging from $90,925 to $118,204 per year. Federal employees also enjoy a robust benefits package, including retirement planning, comprehensive health coverage, and a focus on work-life balance through telework opportunities.
How to Apply
Success in the federal application process requires meticulous attention to detail. Ensure your resume contains specific duty descriptions, salary history, and precise dates of employment. Utilize the USAJOBS Resume Builder to ensure all federal requirements are met.
This is a premier role for chemists eager to apply their expertise to public health. By joining the CTP, you help ensure that science-based regulations protect future generations. Review the announcement, prepare your documentation, and submit your application today.
Why This Chemist Job Matters
Join the forefront of public health science and help shape the future of tobacco regulation at the FDA's Center for Tobacco Products.
Chemist Job Overview
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is seeking a highly skilled Chemist to join the Center for Tobacco Products (CTP) in Silver Spring, Maryland. In this pivotal role, you will act as a scientific authority, evaluating the chemical composition and physical properties of tobacco products and their associated aerosols. You will play a critical role in bridging the gap between complex scientific data and impactful public health policy, ensuring that regulatory decisions are backed by rigorous research and clear technical communication.
Requirements for Chemist
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Must meet the 1320 occupational series basic education requirements (30 semester hours in chemistry plus math through calculus and at least 6 hours of physics).
- One year of specialized experience at the GS-12 level or equivalent.
- Ability to analyze and characterize the chemical composition of complex substances.
- Experience in reviewing manufacturing processes and analytical methods.
- Proven ability to communicate complex scientific findings to non-scientific audiences.
- Must submit a professional resume (maximum 2 pages) and official/unofficial transcripts.
Preferred Qualifications for Chemist
- Advanced degree in chemistry or a related physical science.
- Experience developing regulatory guidance or policy documents.
- Strong collaborative experience working with legal and policy stakeholders.
- Proven track record of identifying scientific knowledge gaps.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary package.
- ✓Comprehensive health and life insurance options.
- ✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- ✓Generous annual and sick leave accrual.
- ✓Opportunities for professional growth and training.
- ✓Flexible work environments (Telework eligible per agency policy).
💡 How to Apply Chemist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Chemist Job
- Create a USAJOBS account if you do not already have one.
- Use the USAJOBS Resume Builder to create a federal-style resume.
- Prepare your supporting documents, including official transcripts and (if applicable) SF-50 forms.
- Complete the online questionnaire via the USA Staffing system.
- Submit your application package before the closing date of November 4, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Be specific with your employment dates (MM/YY) and hours worked per week.
- Ensure your resume clearly addresses the specialized experience requirements.
- Double-check that all uploaded files are readable and not password-protected.
- Submit your application early to allow time for system processing.
- Review your application status periodically through the USAJOBS portal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a remote position?
No, this is not a fully remote position. The selected candidate must adhere to the FDA Telework Policy and report regularly to the designated facility in Silver Spring, Maryland.
Do I need to submit transcripts?
Yes, even if you are a current federal employee, transcripts are required to verify that you meet the specific educational requirements for the 1320 Chemistry series.
How do I prove my specialized experience?
Your resume must clearly outline duties that align with the GS-12 level, specifically highlighting chemical analysis and technical communication.
What if I have foreign education?
You must provide a formal evaluation from an accredited organization (NACES or AICE) to prove your credits are equivalent to U.S. standards.