Become a Lead Chemist at the Norfolk Naval Shipyard
Are you a detail-oriented scientist ready to make a significant impact on national security and environmental safety? The Norfolk Naval Shipyard (NNSY) is seeking a motivated and skilled Chemist to join the Laboratory Quality and Accreditation Office. This GS-13 position offers a unique blend of technical analysis, regulatory oversight, and leadership within the Department of the Navy. If you are passionate about chemistry and mission-driven work, this is the career move you have been waiting for.
Job Responsibilities
As a Chemist in the Laboratory Quality and Accreditation Office (Code 1561), you will be the cornerstone of data integrity. Your primary responsibilities include:
- Environmental Compliance: Reviewing testing conducted under the Clean Water Act, Safe Drinking Water Act, and the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act.
- Data Validation: Evaluating laboratory test data for validity and ensuring compliance with stringent quality-control requirements.
- Leadership Support: Preparing summary charts and presentations for NAVSEA, Navy, and Department of Defense (DOD) managers.
- Program Management: Overseeing proficiency testing results and reviewing laboratory corrective actions.
- Strategic Remediation: Providing technical expertise in support of vital Navy environmental remediation efforts.
Requirements
To qualify for this position, you must meet the following criteria:
- Education: A degree in a physical science, life science, or engineering that includes at least 30 semester hours in chemistry. You must also have completed math through calculus and at least 6 semester hours of physics.
- Experience: One year of specialized experience at the GS-12 level or its private/public sector equivalent.
- Skills: Proficiency in analytical techniques, chemical principles, and clear oral communication.
Salary and Benefits
This role offers a highly competitive compensation package commensurate with the professional nature of the work.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary Range | $108,019 - $140,426 per year |
| Pay Plan | GS-13 |
| Benefits | Health, Life, Retirement, and Paid Leave |
| Schedule | Full-Time, Telework Eligible |
Application Tips
- Use the Resume Builder: This ensures you meet the strict federal formatting requirements.
- Mind the Page Limit: Resumes are strictly limited to two pages.
- Include Specifics: Clearly state your employer name, dates of service, and hours worked to avoid being disqualified.
- Document Everything: If you claim a degree or a credential, upload the supporting transcript or certificate immediately.
Serving as a Chemist at the Norfolk Naval Shipyard is more than just a job; it is a commitment to excellence and the protection of our naval assets. With a competitive salary, professional growth, and the chance to work on high-stakes environmental projects, this role is a perfect fit for a seasoned scientist. Apply today to contribute your expertise to the Department of the Navy.
Why This Chemist Job Matters
Advance your scientific career with the U.S. Navy at the Norfolk Naval Shipyard, where your chemical expertise ensures mission readiness and environmental excellence.
Chemist Job Overview
The Norfolk Naval Shipyard is seeking a highly skilled Chemist to join the Laboratory Quality and Accreditation Office (Code 1561). This role is critical to maintaining high standards of data validity, regulatory compliance, and laboratory excellence. You will influence key operations by overseeing environmental testing protocols and supporting Navy remediation efforts in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment.
Requirements for Chemist
- U.S. Citizenship
- Bachelor's degree or higher in physical sciences, life sciences, or engineering with at least 30 semester hours in chemistry, supplemented by math through calculus and 6 semester hours of physics
- One year of specialized experience at or equivalent to the GS-12 grade level
- Expertise in evaluating laboratory testing/analytical data for regulated materials
- Knowledge of ISO 17025, ISO 9000, and quality-control standards
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance
Preferred Qualifications for Chemist
- Experience with Clean Water Act, Safe Drinking Water Act, and Resource Conservation Recovery Act compliance
- Proven history of presenting technical inspection data to DOD or organizational leadership
- Proficiency in managing laboratory proficiency testing programs and corrective action reviews
- Strong communication skills for presenting complex chemical data to management
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Federal Salary
- ✓Comprehensive Health Insurance
- ✓Retirement Savings Plans including Thrift Savings Plan (TSP)
- ✓Paid Time Off and Federal Holidays
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training
- ✓Telework eligibility
💡 How to Apply Chemist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Chemist Job
- Create or update your account on the USAJobs portal.
- Prepare a resume restricted to a maximum of two pages.
- Ensure your resume includes employer names, dates of employment, hours worked, and salary/grade levels.
- Collect necessary supporting documents, such as transcripts, SF-50s, or veterans' preference documentation.
- Apply through the official online application portal before the closing date.
- Monitor your application status via the USAJobs dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Use the USAJobs Resume Builder to ensure all mandatory federal information is captured.
- Verify that your transcripts clearly list course titles, credits, and grades to meet the 30-hour chemistry requirement.
- If claiming veterans' preference, ensure your DD-214 clearly reflects character of service.
- Double-check your resume for readability; illegible or unformatted resumes will lead to an ineligible rating.
- Submit your application early to avoid last-minute technical delays before the closing date.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary mission of this role?
The Chemist will serve in the Laboratory Quality and Accreditation Office, overseeing the validity of laboratory testing data, ensuring environmental regulatory compliance, and supporting Navy remediation efforts.
Is telework available?
Yes, this position is eligible for telework, allowing for a flexible work-life balance while maintaining essential shipyard operations.
What documents are required if I am a current or former federal employee?
You must provide an SF-50 that proves your time-in-grade and grade level, ensuring it is dated more than one year ago to confirm eligibility.
What is the security clearance requirement?
*A: This position requires a Secret clearance.*
Can I use education as a substitute for experience?
*A: While you must meet the basic educational requirements, specialized experience is a core requirement for the GS-13 grade level.*
Job from United States Fleet Forces Command
The Norfolk Naval Shipyard is one of the oldest and largest industrial facilities of the U.S. Navy. Tasked with the repair, overhaul, and modernization of our nation's naval fleet, the shipyard relies on civilian experts to ensure that every aspect of the facility meets the highest standards of quality and environmental protection. Working here means joining a team where purpose and patriotism unite to safeguard our freedoms.