Launch Your Career as an Industrial Hygienist with OSHA
Are you looking for a career that combines technical expertise with a noble mission? The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is currently seeking talented individuals to serve as Industrial Hygienists. This is an incredible opportunity to influence the safety culture of American workplaces and ensure that employees across the country return home in good health.
Job Responsibilities
As an Industrial Hygienist, your role will be multi-faceted and vital to the agency’s success. Your primary responsibilities will include:
- Inspections: Planning and conducting compliance reviews of worksites to ensure adherence to safety regulations.
- Hazard Analysis: Identifying and evaluating health hazards related to chemical, physical, and biological stresses in the workplace.
- Reporting: Developing detailed technical reports and making recommendations for corrective actions, such as engineering controls or personal protective equipment.
- Legal Support: Providing affidavits and testimony regarding inspection findings.
- Outreach: Educating employers and employees on OSHA legislation and safety best practices.
Responsibility Comparison Table
| Feature | GS-09 Level | GS-11 Level |
|---|---|---|
| Inspection Scope | Limited/Assisted | Independent/Comprehensive |
| Complexity | Low-risk/Stable processes | Challenging/Technically difficult |
| Outreach | Limited participation | Targeted/Formal outreach |
| Regulatory Application | Basic application | Advanced selection/Analysis |
Requirements
To qualify for this position, applicants must meet the basic education requirement in industrial hygiene, occupational health, or a closely related science. Alternatively, candidates may qualify through specific combinations of experience and education.
Key requirements include:
- U.S. Citizenship
- Relevant degree or certification (e.g., Board for Global EHS Credentialing)
- Ability to pass a drug test and background check
- Completion of 52 weeks of specialized experience at the next lower grade level (if applicable)
Salary and Benefits
The position offers a competitive salary range of $61,722 to $101,533 per year, depending on the grade level and location. Beyond the salary, federal employees enjoy an extensive benefits package:
- Health Coverage: Access to a variety of top-tier health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
- Retirement: Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) and the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- Work-Life Balance: Generous paid leave, including vacation, sick time, and 11 federal holidays.
- Professional Growth: Consistent training opportunities and the ability to advance through the GS-12 grade ladder.
How to Apply
Applying for a federal position requires precision. Follow these steps carefully:
- USAJOBS Profile: Ensure your account is updated with your most recent resume and transcripts.
- Resume Limits: Note the 2-page limit for your resume to ensure eligibility.
- Dual Application: You must complete the application via the USAJOBS portal and the subsequent Department of Labor portal.
- Assessment: Be prepared to complete the USA Hire assessment if invited via email.
Joining OSHA is more than just a job; it is a commitment to public service and worker protection. If you possess the scientific background and the desire to make a tangible impact on the safety of American workplaces, we encourage you to apply before the closing date. Your work will directly support the wellbeing of thousands of workers across Illinois, Ohio, and Wisconsin.
Why This Industrial Hygienist Job Matters
Protect the workforce of tomorrow: Join OSHA as an Industrial Hygienist and play a vital role in ensuring safe and healthy working conditions across America.
Industrial Hygienist Job Overview
The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is seeking dedicated Industrial Hygienists to join our Chicago Region. You will perform critical inspections, identify workplace hazards, and help maintain high safety standards in diverse industrial and professional settings. These positions offer a clear career path from GS-9 to GS-12, providing excellent opportunities for professional growth within a mission-driven federal agency.
Requirements for Industrial Hygienist
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Completion of a bachelor's or graduate degree in industrial hygiene, occupational health, toxicology, safety sciences, or a related field.
- Alternatively, a degree in engineering, physical, or life sciences with specific credit requirements in chemistry and related sciences.
- Possession of Board for Global EHS Credentialing certification.
- Meet specific time-in-grade requirements for current or former federal employees.
- Ability to pass a background investigation and pre-employment drug screening.
- Compliance with a 1-year probationary period.
Preferred Qualifications for Industrial Hygienist
- Experience in planning and conducting occupational health or safety inspections.
- Demonstrated ability to interpret regulatory standards and communicate complex safety information.
- Skills in calculating penalties for safety violations based on severity and gravity.
- Proficiency in developing investigation or inspection reports.
- Demonstrated professional experience in identifying environmental hazards and recommending corrective engineering or administrative controls.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary with step increases.
- ✓Health, dental, and vision insurance options.
- ✓Federal retirement benefits (FERS).
- ✓Participation in the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching.
- ✓Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
- ✓Opportunities for professional training and career development.
- ✓Telework eligibility based on agency guidelines.
💡 How to Apply Industrial Hygienist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Industrial Hygienist Job
- Create or update your profile on the official USAJOBS platform.
- Ensure your resume is limited to two pages as per current merit hiring guidelines.
- Apply directly through the USAJOBS portal to initiate the process.
- Complete the required second part of the application on the Department of Labor (DOL) website.
- Complete the mandatory USA Hire assessment if notified.
- Verify that all required documents, including transcripts and SF-50 forms, are uploaded.
💡 General Tips
- Double-check that your resume explicitly lists the number of hours worked per week for every position.
- Use the 'Application Status' feature in your USAJOBS account to track progress.
- Ensure your transcripts clearly show all completed coursework related to the position requirements.
- Submit your application well before the 11:59 PM ET deadline to avoid technical timeouts.
- Tailor your resume to highlight your experience with specific hazard identification and inspection planning.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the career ladder for this position?
The entry level is GS-09/11 with a full performance potential up to GS-12.
Are there multiple duty locations for this job?
Yes, positions are available in Peoria, Illinois; Columbus and Independence, Ohio; and Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
Is a writing sample required?
A writing sample may be requested as part of the interview process.
Job from Occupational Safety And Health Administration
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is a key agency within the U.S. Department of Labor. Our mission is to ensure safe and healthful working conditions for workers by setting and enforcing standards and by providing training, outreach, education, and assistance. When you join the Department of Labor, you join a team dedicated to the protection and advancement of the American workforce.