Chemist (Diversion Control Division)

Drug Enforcement Administration

Arlington (VA)

On-site

USD 122,000 - 187,000

Full time

3 days ago

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Job summary

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is seeking a Chemist (Diversion Control Division) to lead scientific matters within the Diversion Control Program. You will serve as senior chemist, coordinating with scientists, public health and law enforcement professionals domestically and internationally to align priorities on drugs of abuse and chemical diversion.

You will advise on drug scheduling, develop scientific data, and help determine policy changes for domestic and international purposes.

Responsibilities

Senior Chemist leading scientific matters for the Diversion Control Program.
Liaise with scientists, public health and law enforcement officials nationally and internationally.
Advise on drug scheduling and chemical control issues; develop policy as appropriate.
Prepare technical reports and review internal/external reports for scientific accuracy.
Apply knowledge to evaluate processes under the Controlled Substances Act.

Job description

Hiring Agency: Drug Enforcement Administration

This position is located in the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Office of Diversion Control Operations, Drug and Chemical Evaluation Section, Chemical Control Unit (DOEC). This position(s) primary purpose is to serve as a chemist, responsible for providing leadership on technical matters to the Diversion Control Program (DCP).

Key Responsibilities

As a Chemist (Diversion Control Division), your typical work assignments may include: Serving as senior Chemist, responsible for providing leadership on scientific matters to the Drug and Chemical Evaluation Section, Diversion Control Division. Maintaining liaison with scientist, public health and law enforcement officials, and other professionals, nationally and internationally, to orient them to the priorities of drugs of abuse and diversion of chemicals.

Advising, providing, and coordinating the development of drug abuse, chemical diversion and scientific data to determine the position of the Diversion Control Division on drug scheduling and chemical control issues, and recommending policy changes as appropriate, for both domestic and international purposes. Preparing technical reports and reviewing internal and external reports for scientific and technical accuracy.

Utilizing scientific knowledge and skills to evaluate processes and procedures as defined under the Controlled Substance Act and its implementation regulations.

Requirements & Education

See the qualification section of this vacancy announcement for education requirements. Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the education requirements if you can show that the foreign education is comparable to that received in an accredited educational institution in the United States. It is your responsibility to provide such evidence when applying.

For a list of accredited organizations recognized as specializing in interpretation of foreign education credentials, visit: www.naces.org/members. If you are claiming education as any part of your qualifications for this position, you must submit an official transcript, unofficial transcript, or a list including courses, grades earned, completion dates, and quarter and semester hours earned.

Which agency is hiring for this position?

This position is with Drug Enforcement Administration, Department of Justice.

What is the salary for this position?

The posted pay range is $121785 – $187093/yr.

What security clearance is required?

This position requires a Top Secret security clearance.

What is the application deadline?

Applications close on 2026-10-16.

Who is eligible to apply?

This position is open under the 'Fed Transition' hiring path.