Become a Leader in Pharmaceutical Safety: Consumer Safety Officer (Planning)
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is searching for a detail-oriented and strategic leader to join the Office of Inspections and Investigations (OII). As a Consumer Safety Officer (Planning) at the GS-13 level, you will operate at the intersection of regulatory policy and global safety, ensuring that medical products meet the highest standards of quality. If you have the expertise to drive compliance and the desire to protect public health, this role offers an unparalleled opportunity for professional growth.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will:
- Serve as the headquarters authority on drug inspection techniques.
- Conduct complex research to improve inspection processes in response to manufacturing advances.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of international inspection programs.
- Coordinate administrative elements of foreign inspections, such as securing travel logistics and visas.
- Collaborate with diverse units, including the Office of the Commissioner and international partners.
Comparison: Standard vs. Planning-Focused Roles
| Feature | Field Inspector | Planning/HQ Officer |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Focus | On-site execution | Strategic direction |
| Scope | Regional/Specific | National/International |
| Data Usage | Tactical data entry | Trend analysis/Policy |
| Key Output | Inspection Reports | Compliance Frameworks |
Requirements
Applicants must demonstrate:
- Eligibility: Must be a U.S. citizen and meet Time-in-Grade requirements.
- Education: A degree in a relevant scientific field (e.g., chemistry, pharmacy, engineering) with 30+ hours of specialized coursework.
- Experience: One year of specialized experience at the GS-12 level or equivalent.
Salary Overview
This position is structured as a GS-13 grade level. The salary range is between $106,437 and $172,980 per year, depending on location and experience. This is a permanent career-track opportunity within the federal government.
Benefits
Employees of the FDA enjoy a comprehensive federal benefits package, including:
- Robust health and life insurance plans.
- Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- Generous paid vacation, federal holidays, and sick leave.
- A work environment that supports professional growth and work-life balance.
Application Tips
To be competitive, ensure your resume is clear and concise, adhering to the two-page limit. Provide specific dates of employment and clear descriptions of your duties to allow hiring managers to accurately assess your qualifications. Always submit unofficial transcripts early to ensure they pass the system's scanning process.
This role is for those ready to tackle the complexities of the global drug supply chain. With competitive compensation and the chance to contribute to a critical public health mission, this is a career move that makes a difference. Apply before the deadline of November 9, 2026.
Why This Consumer Safety Officer (Planning) Job Matters
Join the forefront of global health security. The FDA is seeking a Consumer Safety Officer to shape the future of international pharmaceutical inspections and ensure product safety for all Americans.
Consumer Safety Officer (Planning) Job Overview
As a Consumer Safety Officer (Planning) within the Office of Inspections and Investigations (OII), you will serve as a headquarters authority on drug inspection techniques. This role is pivotal in planning, establishing, and directing international inspection programs, ensuring that FDA compliance objectives are met on a global scale. You will work closely with leadership to develop innovative inspection strategies, evaluate program effectiveness, and coordinate critical foreign and domestic pharmaceutical investigations.
Requirements for Consumer Safety Officer (Planning)
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Must meet Time-in-Grade requirements by the closing date.
- One year of specialized experience equivalent to GS-12.
- Bachelor's or graduate degree in quality assurance, biological sciences, chemistry, pharmacy, engineering, or related fields with at least 30 semester hours in relevant subjects.
- Submission of official or unofficial transcripts.
- Relevant SF-50 documentation for current or former federal employees.
Preferred Qualifications for Consumer Safety Officer (Planning)
- Demonstrated expertise in researching firm histories using database systems like OSAR, eDRLS, and CMS.
- Proven track record of managing multiple concurrent, high-priority assignments.
- Experience in coordinating complex international inspection logistics, including travel and technical support.
- Strong oral and written communication skills for cross-functional collaboration.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Federal Salary
- ✓Health and Life Insurance options
- ✓Retirement programs (FERS/TSP)
- ✓Paid vacation and sick leave
- ✓Potential for telework eligibility
- ✓Professional development opportunities
💡 How to Apply Consumer Safety Officer (Planning) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Consumer Safety Officer (Planning) Job
- Log in to your account at Login.gov via the USAJOBS portal.
- Prepare a resume that specifically details your relevant experience, including dates, hours, and salary information.
- Complete the online assessment questionnaire.
- Upload all required documentation, including transcripts and SF-50s if applicable.
- Submit your application through the official system before the 11/09/2026 deadline.
💡 General Tips
- Use the USAJOBS Resume Builder to ensure all required fields are included.
- Do not exceed the two-page resume limit.
- Be specific with dates of employment (MM/YY) and hours worked per week.
- Double-check that all uploaded transcripts are in a non-secured format to avoid scan failures.
- Review your application status frequently via your USAJOBS account.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the GS level for this position?
This position is classified at the GS-13 grade level.
Can I apply if I have foreign education?
Yes, but you must provide an evaluation from an accredited organization that confirms its equivalence to U.S. educational standards.
Is travel required for this role?
Yes, the role involves coordination of international inspections, with a requirement to perform at least one foreign inspection trip annually.
Job from Food And Drug Administration
The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is the primary federal agency responsible for protecting the health of all Americans. Within this department, the FDA plays a vital role in safeguarding public health by assuring the safety, efficacy, and security of drugs, biological products, and medical devices. Joining the FDA means becoming part of a mission-driven team dedicated to making the world healthier and safer.