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The positions are in the Office of Aviation Safety, located in either Federal Way, WA (WPR), Aurora, CO (CEN), or Washington, D.C. (ERA). The incumbent will have knowledge and experience of general aviation flight operations, maintenance and inspection of small aircraft and a strong working knowledge of civil aircraft accident investigation and aviation safety.

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Accepting applications

Open & closing dates

03/18/2025 to 04/01/2025
Salary

$68,138 - $131,826 per year
Newly appointed federal government employees, starting salary rate may be set at the step 1.
Pay scale & grade

GS 9 - 12
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Locations

MANY vacancies in the following locations:
Remote job

No
Telework eligible

Yes—This position is eligible for ad-hoc/situational telework as determined by the agency policy.
Travel Required

25% or less - You may be expected to travel for this position.
Relocation expenses reimbursed

No
Appointment type

Permanent
Work schedule

Full-time
Service

Competitive
Promotion potential

13
Job family (Series)
- 1815 Air Safety Investigating
Supervisory status

No
Security clearance

Not Required
Drug test

No
Position sensitivity and risk

High Risk (HR)
Trust determination process
- Suitability/Fitness
Financial disclosure

No
Bargaining unit status

Yes
Announcement number

AS-12613601-25-KAT
Control number

833818800

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Clarification from the agency

Status Candidates (Merit Promotion and VEOA Eligibles).

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(Aurora, CO) (GS-09-$68,138.00 to $88,577.00) (GS-11-$82,440.00 to $107,167.00) (GS-12-$98,811.00 to $128,460.00)
(Federal Way, WA) (GS-09-$68,686.00 to $89,290.00) (GS-11-$83,104.00 to $108,029.00) (GS-12-$99,606.00 to $129,494.00)
(Washington, DC) (GS-09-$69,923.00 to $90,898.00) (GS-11-$84,601.00 to $109,975.00) (GS-12-$101,401.00 to $131,826.00)

As a Air Safety Investigator, GS-1815-9/11/ or 12, you will perform the following major duties:

At the GS-09 level, typical duties may include:

Conducting straightforward aviation accident/incident investigations of civil aircraft operated under 14 CFR Part 91, primarily involving small aircraft;
Assisting with collection of and documenting factual information, data, and evidence relevant to aircraft accident/incident investigations;
Conducting investigative interviews;
Being trained in the preparation written reports of investigative activities.

At the GS-11 level, in addition to duties at the lower grade level, typical duties may include:

Conducting on-scene collection, verification, analysis, and evaluation of accident data;
Preparing written reports of investigative activities in a timely manner and in accordance with agency policy and procedures;
Researching and developing safety recommendations, corrective actions, and other necessary changes;
Briefing industry stakeholders and the public of the facts and circumstances of an accident/incident and coordinating disaster assistance with family members.

At the GS-12 level, in addition to duties at the lower grade level, typical duties may include:

Conducting investigations of civil aircraft accidents and incidents that involve complex technical factors.
Assisting with the investigation of major aircraft accidents and acting as a group chairman in support of such investigations.

Physical Demands and Work Environment:The work includes a mixture of sedentary and physically demanding tasks. The incumbent must be available on a periodic on-call basis to triage incoming accident/incident notifications and to respond to the scene of aircraft accidents/incident. These on-scene responses they may require vigorous physical exertion and long hours. Accident/incident scenes may be located in austere environments, anywhere across the United States or overseas. Additionally, the incumbent may be exposed to a variety of weather conditions and other environmental discomforts, unforgiving topography, and debris hazards. Also, while risk assessments are made, appropriate mitigation measures taken, and personal protective equipment used, there remains the possibility of exposure to poisonous, explosive, or other hazardous materials associated with the accident sites to which the agency deploys.

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Conditions of Employment

U.S. Citizenship.
Males born after 12/31/59 must be registered for Selective Service.
Resume and supporting documents (see "How to Apply" section.).
Suitability for Federal employment.
Financial Interest in transportation enterprises will be evaluated on a case-by-case-basis.
Bargaining Unit Position: YES - Bargaining unit represented by NTSB-AFGE Local 2211.
Direct Deposit is required.
A probationary period may be required.
Status candidates must meet time-in-grade requirements (52 weeks at the next lower grade level) by the closing date of this announcement. Only experience and education obtained by the closing date of this announcement will be considered.
This position is being announced concurrently under Public (U.S Citizens) procedures under Vacancy Number AS-12613606-25-KAT. To be considered under both Public (US Citizens) and Government-Wide procedures, you must apply to both announcements.
You may be required to complete a Confidential Financial Disclosure Report, OGE-450, upon entering the position and annually.
If selection is made below the full performance level, promotion up to the full performance level may be made without further competition. However, promotions are not automatic or guaranteed and will depend on the performance and supervisor approval.
Applicants must meet all qualifications and eligibility requirements by the closing date of the announcement.
The selectee will conduct the work from their current approved official duty location.

Qualifications

MINIMUM ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS:
Minimum eligibility requirements for these positions are based on possession of the appropriate Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) pilot certificates and/or appropriate military ratings, meeting the applicable flight hour requirements, meeting the appropriate education and/or experience requirements, and possession of the knowledge and skills required for the position.

CERTIFICATES AND RATINGS:
For all grades and specializations, applicants must possess a commercial pilot certificate with instrument rating, the appropriate military rating, or other certificate that meets or exceeds the requirements of the commercial pilot certificate, e.g., an airline transport pilot certificate.

MINIMUM FLIGHT HOURS REQUIREMENTS FOR ALL APPLICANTS:

Your resume must clearly state your hours of flight experience in each of the categories required for this announcement (total flight time, pilot-in-command, small airplane). If your resume does not contain this information, you will not be considered for the position.

Category	Flight Hours for GS-9	Flight Hours for GS-11 and above
Total Flight Time	1,000	1,500
Pilot-in-Command	500	1,000
Small Airplanes	250	500

Flight Hour Type Definitions:
(PLEASE LIST ALL OF THE FLIGHT TIMES IN YOUR RESUME)

Total Flight Time -- Flight time as pilot-in-command in aircraft of any weight or category is creditable for this requirement. Each 2 hours acquired as a co-pilot, an FAA certificated flight engineer on a commercial air carrier, or a military flight officer on a military air carrier may be substituted for 1 hour of flight time in meeting the minimum total flight time requirements.
Pilot-in-Command -- Only flight hours acquired as pilot-in-command are creditable.
Small Airplanes(gross weight less than 12,500 pounds). Hours may have been acquired as pilot-in-command or total flight time.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS

-- Valid State driver's license; (UPLOAD A COPY)
-- Fluency in the English language;
-- Applicants MUST possess a current first or second-class medical certificate in accordance with FAA regulations (both meet the intent of the requirement). The medical certificate must be valid and current as of the closing date for this announcement. (UPLOAD A COPY)
-- Copies of the front and back of your Medical and Pilot certificates must be submitted. (UPLOAD A COPY)
-- No chemical dependencies or drug abuse that could interfere with job performance; and
-- High school graduate or equivalent.

Interview:

Before appointment, candidates are required to appear for an interview. The purpose of the interview is to determine whether candidates possess the personal characteristics necessary to perform the duties of aviation safety investigator positions successfully. Candidates will be questioned about information on their applications during the interview, and will be required to show appropriate certificates and log books. (PLEASE UPLOAD CERTIFICATES AND/OR LOG BOOKS)

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

FOR GS-09: To minimally qualify for the GS-09 level, the applicant must possess at least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-07 level which demonstrates a basic knowledge of aviation accident investigation practices, procedures, and techniques as they apply to aircraft operated under 14 CFR Parts 91, 121, or 135. Examples include work acting as pilot of civil aircraft; and work examining/documenting/inspecting aircraft or reviewing aircraft or aviation personnel records.

FOR GS-11: In addition, to minimally qualify for the GS-11 level, the applicant must possess at least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-09 level which demonstrates a general knowledge of civil aviation and aviation accident investigation practices, procedures, and techniques as they relate to aircraft operated under 14 CFR Parts 91, 121, or 135. Examples include work examining/participating in the testing of aircraft systems or components; conducting interviews; examining parametric data obtained from operating aircraft; preparing written reports detailing the findings of aviation safety events; and taking action to rectify observed aviation safety deficiencies.

FOR GS-12: In addition, to minimally qualify for the GS-12 level, the applicant must possess at least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-11 level which demonstrates a detailed knowledge of civil aviation and aviation accident investigation practices, procedures, and techniques as they relate to aircraft operated under 14 CFR Parts 91, 121, or 135. Experience at this level would include working as an aircraft accident investigator for an organization that assists or is involved with supporting the conduct of on-scene civil aviation accident investigations overseen by the aviation investigative agency.

NOTE: Your resume must clearly describe your relevant experience and include the applicable civil FAR part for the work done by that operator (e.g., 14 CFR Part 91, 121, 135, etc.), as well as list all the civil aircraft types that you might have operated and/or maintained during employment. If applicable, your resume may also list additional experience obtained during military service, in addition to the required experience obtained in support of civil aircraft operations. If your resume does not contain all of this information, you will not be considered for the position. Education may not be used as an alternate means to meet the experience requirements of these positions.

For more information see link: https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/1800/air-safety-investigating-series-1815/

NOTE: IN DESCRIBING YOUR EXPERIENCE, PLEASE BE CLEAR AND SPECIFIC. WE WILL NOT MAKE ASSUMPTIONS REGARDING YOUR EXPERIENCE. Your resume must clearly show the specialized experience and competencies related to this position. Failure to demonstrate how you possess the flight hours, medical certificate, specialized experience and/or competencies will result in an "Ineligible" rating.

Education

There is no education substitution at this grade level.

Additional information

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes, in part, paid vacation, sick leave, holidays and various benefits as well as work life amenities such as alternate work schedules, telework, flextime, fitness and transit benefits.
Moving expenses associated with permanent change of station (PCS) ARE NOT authorized for this position.
NTSB may authorize Recruitment Incentives currently offered by the Federal Government for highly qualified candidates who possess unique skills and abilities.
If you left Federal Employment and received a buy out and you are selected for this position, you may be required to repay the full amount of the payment.
Veterans Employment Opportunity Act (VEOA): To be eligible for a VEOA appointment under Merit Promotion procedures, you must be a preference eligible or a Veteran separated after 3 years or more of continuous active service performed under honorable conditions. For more information on VEOA please visit https://www.fedshirevets.gov/job-seekers/special-hiring-authorities/#veoa
Noncompetitive Appointment Authorities: For more information on noncompetitive appointment authority eligibility requirements identified below please visit https://www.fedshirevets.gov/job-seekers/special-hiring-authorities/
- - Persons with Disabilities-Schedule A
- - Special Hiring Authorities for Veterans
- - Special Hiring Authority for Certain Military Spouses
- - Other Special Appointment Authorities
Career Transition Assistance Programs: These programs apply to employees who have been involuntarily separated from a Federal service position within the competitive service or Federal service employees whose positions have been deemed surplus or no longer needed. To receive selection priority for this position, you must: (1) meet CTAP or ICTAP eligibility criteria; (2) meet the basic qualification standards (including minimum educational and experience requirements; (3) be rated well-qualified for the position with a score of 90 and above on the rating criteria for this position; and, (4) submit the appropriate documentation ( to support your CTAP or ICTAP eligibility. For more information visit: http://www.opm.gov/rif/employee_guides/career_transition.asp
Note: ICTAP eligibles must submit one of the following as proof of eligibility for the special selection priority: a separation notice; a "Notice of Personnel Action" (SF-50) documenting separation; an agency certification that you cannot be placed after injury compensation has been terminated; an OPM notification that your disability annuity has been terminated; OR a Military Department or National Guard Bureau notification that you are retired under 5 U.S.C. 8337(h) or 8456.
All qualification requirements must be met by the closing date of this announcement. Additional information on the qualification requirements is outlined in the OPM Qualifications Standards Handbook of General Schedule Positions. It is available for your review on OPM's web site at https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/
Telework may be authorized on a case-by-case basis.
Multiple and subsequent vacancies may be filled from this announcement.
NTSB uses E-Verify to confirm the employment eligibility of all newly hired employees. To learn more about E-Verify, including your rights and responsibilities, please visit http://www.uscis.gov/e-verify.

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A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.

Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.

You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.

We will review your resume and supporting documentation to determine your qualifications. Experience must be clearly reflected in your resume. Applicants must first meet any mandatory education and/or licensure requirements before experience is evaluated. Failure to meet any mandatory requirement as outlined in the qualifications section will disqualify you from further consideration. If education and/or licensure requirements are met, your application will be further evaluated based on training, experience and other factors critical to successful job performance such as:

Accident Investigation
Aircraft Maintenance
Aircraft Operations
Communication
Project Management
Reasoning and Analysis

If you are found to be among the top qualified candidates, you will be referred to the selecting official for employment consideration.

Help
A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.

Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.
As a new or existing federal employee, you and your family may have access to a range of benefits. Your benefits depend on the type of position you have - whether you're a permanent, part-time, temporary or an intermittent employee. You may be eligible for the following benefits, however, check with your agency to make sure you're eligible under their policies.

You are encouraged to apply online. Applying online will allow you to review and track the status of your application.

You are required to provide documentation that supports the eligibility and qualification claims made in your resume and assessment questionnaire. You must submit the applicable documents listed here and those listed with the eligibilities you select in the announcement questionnaire with your application package. Applicants who do not provide supporting documentation that fully support their claims will not be referred to the hiring manager. Cover letter is optional.

The following documents are required for a COMPLETE APPLICATION PACKAGE:
- A Complete Resume is required: Your resume must show relevant experience, job title, duties and accomplishments. Your resume must show complete information for each job entry to support minimum qualifications, including starting and end dates (Mo/Yr), and hours per week. The following information should be provided in your resume: employer's name, pay plan, series and grade level (e.g. GS-0201-09) for relevant federal experience. Please see OPM's video on Resume Writing Tips: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8YX7o1PBoF
- Responses to the questionnaire.
- College transcripts (Unofficial or Official), if qualifying based on education or as a basic requirement.
- ALL CURRENT AND FORMER FEDERAL EMPLOYEES MUST SUBMIT THE MOST RECENT COPY OF THEIR SF-50 (Notification of Personnel Action) showing competitive status, listing your Position Title, Series and Grade and Step, Tenure (Block 24 -1 or 2) and Position Occupied (Block 34 -1). Additionally, applicants should also submit a SF-50 reflecting the highest grade held on a permanent basis in the competitive service or the full performance level of your current position, whichever is higher. (Do not submit your Award SF-50).
- A copy of your most recent performance appraisal, or a statement as to why you do not have this document.
- DD-214 (member copy 4), SF-15 Form and VA letter, or certification of expected discharge or release from active duty from Veterans for consideration under Veteran hiring authorities.
- Noncompetitive appointment authority documentation, if applicable.
- Career Transition Assistance Program/Interagency Career Transition Assistance Program Documentation: (1) Proof of Eligibility; (2) Your latest performance rating showing a rating of at least "fully successful" (level 3); AND (3) Your most recent Notification of Personnel Action, Standard Form 50 (SF-50), or equivalent personnel action, showing your tenure, position occupied, and duty station. For more information visit: http://www.opm.gov/rif/employee_guides/career_transition.asp
- Land Management Workforce Flexibility Act (LMWFA) Eligibles: For more information on LMWFA, visit: https://chcoc.gov/content/implementing-policy-guidance-land-management-workforce-flexibility-act
- Valid State driver's license; (UPLOAD A COPY)
- Applicants MUST possess a current first or second-class medical certificate in accordance with FAA regulations (both meet the intent of the requirement). The medical certificate must be valid and current as of the closing date for this announcement. (UPLOAD A COPY)
- Copies of the front and back of your Medical and Pilot certificates must be submitted. (UPLOAD A COPY)
If you are relying on your education to meet qualification requirements:

Education must be accredited by an accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education in order for it to be credited towards qualifications. Therefore, provide only the attendance and/or degrees from schools accredited by accrediting institutions recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

Failure to provide all of the required information as stated in this vacancy announcement may result in an ineligible rating or may affect the overall rating.
- To apply for this position, you must provide a complete application package (see the required documents section).The complete application package must be submitted by 11:59 PM (EST) on 04/01/2025.
- To begin the process, click the Apply Online button to create an account or log in to your existing USAJOBS account. Follow the prompts to complete the occupational questionnaire. Please ensure you click the Submit My Answers button at the end of the process.
- To view or print occupational questionnaire click here https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/12613601.
- To check the status of your application or return to a previous or incomplete application log into your USAJOBS account, select Application Status, and click on the More Information link under the application status for this position.
NOTE: If you are unable to apply online or need to fax a document you do not have in electronic form, view the following link for information regarding an Alternate Applications: https://help.usastaffing.gov/Apply/index.php?title=Alternate_Application_Information at least 1 business day before the closing date.
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Agency contact information

Human Resources Division

Email

humanresourcesdivision@ntsb.gov

Address

AS Aviation Safety
490 L'Enfant Plaza East SW
Washington, DC 20594
US

Next steps

Once the announcement has closed, your resume and supporting documentation will be used to determine if you meet the qualifications listed in the announcement. After the evaluation is complete, you will receive another notification regarding the status of your application.
The Federal hiring process is set up to be fair and transparent. Please read the following guidance.

Help

You are encouraged to apply online. Applying online will allow you to review and track the status of your application.

You are required to provide documentation that supports the eligibility and qualification claims made in your resume and assessment questionnaire. You must submit the applicable documents listed here and those listed with the eligibilities you select in the announcement questionnaire with your application package. Applicants who do not provide supporting documentation that fully support their claims will not be referred to the hiring manager. Cover letter is optional.

The following documents are required for a COMPLETE APPLICATION PACKAGE:

A Complete Resume is required: Your resume must show relevant experience, job title, duties and accomplishments. Your resume must show complete information for each job entry to support minimum qualifications, including starting and end dates (Mo/Yr), and hours per week. The following information should be provided in your resume: employer's name, pay plan, series and grade level (e.g. GS-0201-09) for relevant federal experience. Please see OPM's video on Resume Writing Tips: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8YX7o1PBoF
Responses to the questionnaire.
College transcripts (Unofficial or Official), if qualifying based on education or as a basic requirement.
ALL CURRENT AND FORMER FEDERAL EMPLOYEES MUST SUBMIT THE MOST RECENT COPY OF THEIR SF-50 (Notification of Personnel Action) showing competitive status, listing your Position Title, Series and Grade and Step, Tenure (Block 24 -1 or 2) and Position Occupied (Block 34 -1). Additionally, applicants should also submit a SF-50 reflecting the highest grade held on a permanent basis in the competitive service or the full performance level of your current position, whichever is higher. (Do not submit your Award SF-50).
A copy of your most recent performance appraisal, or a statement as to why you do not have this document.
DD-214 (member copy 4), SF-15 Form and VA letter, or certification of expected discharge or release from active duty from Veterans for consideration under Veteran hiring authorities.
Noncompetitive appointment authority documentation, if applicable.
Career Transition Assistance Program/Interagency Career Transition Assistance Program Documentation: (1) Proof of Eligibility; (2) Your latest performance rating showing a rating of at least "fully successful" (level 3); AND (3) Your most recent Notification of Personnel Action, Standard Form 50 (SF-50), or equivalent personnel action, showing your tenure, position occupied, and duty station. For more information visit: http://www.opm.gov/rif/employee_guides/career_transition.asp
Land Management Workforce Flexibility Act (LMWFA) Eligibles: For more information on LMWFA, visit: https://chcoc.gov/content/implementing-policy-guidance-land-management-workforce-flexibility-act
Valid State driver's license; (UPLOAD A COPY)
Applicants MUST possess a current first or second-class medical certificate in accordance with FAA regulations (both meet the intent of the requirement). The medical certificate must be valid and current as of the closing date for this announcement. (UPLOAD A COPY)
Copies of the front and back of your Medical and Pilot certificates must be submitted. (UPLOAD A COPY)

If you are relying on your education to meet qualification requirements:

Education must be accredited by an accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education in order for it to be credited towards qualifications. Therefore, provide only the attendance and/or degrees from schools accredited by accrediting institutions recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

Failure to provide all of the required information as stated in this vacancy announcement may result in an ineligible rating or may affect the overall rating.

Help

To apply for this position, you must provide a complete application package (see the required documents section).The complete application package must be submitted by 11:59 PM (EST) on 04/01/2025.
To begin the process, click the Apply Online button to create an account or log in to your existing USAJOBS account. Follow the prompts to complete the occupational questionnaire. Please ensure you click the Submit My Answers button at the end of the process.
To view or print occupational questionnaire click here https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/12613601.
To check the status of your application or return to a previous or incomplete application log into your USAJOBS account, select Application Status, and click on the More Information link under the application status for this position.

NOTE: If you are unable to apply online or need to fax a document you do not have in electronic form, view the following link for information regarding an Alternate Applications: https://help.usastaffing.gov/Apply/index.php?title=Alternate_Application_Information at least 1 business day before the closing date.

Agency contact information

Human Resources Division

Email: humanresourcesdivision@ntsb.gov
Address: AS Aviation Safety
490 L'Enfant Plaza East SW
Washington, DC 20594
US

Next steps

Once the announcement has closed, your resume and supporting documentation will be used to determine if you meet the qualifications listed in the announcement. After the evaluation is complete, you will receive another notification regarding the status of your application.

The Federal hiring process is set up to be fair and transparent. Please read the following guidance.

Apply

Print Save

Help

Accepting applications

Open & closing dates

03/18/2025 to 04/01/2025
Salary

$68,138 - $131,826 per year
Newly appointed federal government employees, starting salary rate may be set at the step 1.
Pay scale & grade

GS 9 - 12
Locations

MANY vacancies in the following locations:
Remote job

No
Telework eligible

Yes—This position is eligible for ad-hoc/situational telework as determined by the agency policy.
Travel Required

25% or less - You may be expected to travel for this position.
Relocation expenses reimbursed

No
Appointment type

Permanent
Work schedule

Full-time
Service

Competitive
Promotion potential

13
Job family (Series)
- 1815 Air Safety Investigating
Supervisory status

No
Security clearance

Not Required
Drug test

No
Position sensitivity and risk

High Risk (HR)
Trust determination process
- Suitability/Fitness
Financial disclosure

No
Bargaining unit status

Yes
Announcement number

AS-12613601-25-KAT
Control number

833818800

This job originated on www.usajobs.gov. For the full announcement and to apply, visit www.usajobs.gov/job/833818800. Only resumes submitted according to the instructions on the job announcement listed at www.usajobs.gov will be considered.

Air Safety Investigator

Summary

Overview

Open & closing dates

Salary

Pay scale & grade

Locations

Remote job

Telework eligible

Travel Required

Relocation expenses reimbursed

Appointment type

Work schedule

Service

Promotion potential

Job family (Series)

Supervisory status

Security clearance

Drug test

Position sensitivity and risk

Trust determination process

Financial disclosure

Bargaining unit status

Announcement number

Control number

This job is open to

Clarification from the agency

Videos

Duties

Requirements

Conditions of Employment

Qualifications

Education

Additional information

How You Will Be Evaluated

Required Documents

If you are relying on your education to meet qualification requirements:

How to Apply

Agency contact information

Next steps

Fair & Transparent