Human Resource FAQ's about FDA Science Jobs
Human Resource FAQs* about FDA Science Jobs
Where can I find information about Federal jobs?
Can non-citizens apply for scientist and physician postings?
The position is only open for a short period of time. Should I still apply?
What in an “interdisciplinary” position?
What does GS mean in a position’s title?
What are the most common scientific positions/series?
What should I include in my resume? What should I leave out?
What skills do you look for in candidates?
I have more employment-related questions. Where should I look?
Q. Where can I find information about Federal jobs?
USAJOBS is the official job site of the United States Federal Government. This Website, www.usajobs.gov, is the centralized site for most Federal agencies to post vacancy announcements. At any given time, there are approximately 20,000 positions posted on the site. Additionally, many agencies also advertise in newspapers of general circulation, participate in job fairs, and recruit on school campuses.
Q. Can non-citizens apply for scientist and physician postings?
Citizenship is a requirement for permanent positions in the government, and thus FDA. However, opportunities do exist for non-citizens, including staff fellow positions, ORISE fellowships, and more. For more information on Student, Fellowship, and Senior Scientist Programs, click HERE.
Q. The position is only open for a short period of time. Should I still apply?
Yes, all eligible people should apply.
Q. What in an “interdisciplinary” position?
An interdisciplinary position is a position involving duties and responsibilities closely related to more than one professional occupation. As a result, the position could be classifiable to two or more professional occupational series. The nature of the work is such that persons with education and experience in either of two or more professions may be considered equally well qualified to do the work. For example, the duties of a position assigned review work in product science may be accomplished by an employee trained in chemistry (series 1320) or microbiology (series 0403). Thus, the position could be classified to either chemist or microbiologist.
Q. What does GS mean in a position’s title?
Positions within the Federal Government are classified by occupational series, grade or pay level, and pay plan. Pay plans identify the pay system under which the position is covered. Many white-collar employees are paid under the General Schedule (GS), which is regulated by title 5 and administered by OPM. GS positions, including other white-collar positions, are paid annual salaries. Current GS salaries may be viewed at http://www.opm.gov/oca/06tables/index.asp.
Q. What are the most common scientific positions/series?
OPM.gov has a complete list with descriptions.
- 0100: Social Science, Psychology, and Welfare (economist, psychology, sociology, etc.)
- 0400: Natural Resources Management and Biological Sciences Group (microbiology, pharmacology, toxicology, etc.)
- 0600: Medical, Hospital, Dental, and Public Health Group (medical officer, nurse, dietician and nutritionist, pharmacist, etc.)
- 0700: Veterinary Medical Science Group
- 1300: Physical Sciences Group (health physics, chemistry, etc.)
- 1500: Mathematics and Statistics Group
Q. What should I include in my resume? What should I leave out?
USAJobs has some tips for what to include and leave out. It is best to tailor your resume to each job posting.
Q. What skills do you look for in candidates?
Talented, hardworking individuals with excellent communication skills. Candidates with education and experience in healthcare, science, and engineering who want to make a difference in protecting the nation’s public health. Each office targets candidates with specific experience which fits their mission and program scope.
Q. I have more employment-related questions. Where should I look?
- OPM.gov FAQs includes FAQS on topics including employment, classification, insurance, diversity and inclusion, pay and leave, and more.
- USAJobs.gov has additional FAQs related to the application, documents, job searching, eligibility, qualifications, and more.
* Information from FDA.gov, OPM.Gov and USAJobs.Gov