Compliance Investigator

U.S. Department of Transportation; Buffalo (NY); On-site; USD 50,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

A key position at a federal agency focused on hazardous materials safety, requiring compliance inspections, incident investigations, and representation before authorities. Candidates must demonstrate relevant experience or education, particularly in safety analysis and hazardous materials regulations.

Qualifications

• Experience analyzing information to identify safety concerns.
• Education or experience in hazardous materials safety.

Responsibilities

• Perform compliance inspections and evaluate hazardous materials operators.
• Investigate hazardous materials incidents and represent the Office of Hazardous Materials Safety.

Skills

Technical competence

Effective oral communication

Education

Graduate-level education

Ph.D.

Job description

The purpose of this position is to develop the experience and skills necessary to perform compliance inspections, evaluate intrastate and interstate hazardous materials operators subject to Federal authority, investigate hazardous materials incidents and failures, and represent the Office of Hazardous Materials Safety in matters related to hazardous materials safety before federal, state, and industry authorities.

Duties

Requirements

• You must be a U.S. Citizen and eligible for consideration.
• You must meet specialized experience to qualify.
• Required documents must be submitted by the closing date.
• Submit application and resume online by 11:59 PM EST on the closing date.

Qualifications

To meet the minimum qualifications for this position, you must meet either the education or specialized experience requirements for the grade at which you are requesting consideration.

GS-07 Qualifications:

• Experience: At least one year of experience equivalent to GS-05, including assisting senior team members in analyzing information to identify safety concerns through research, data collection, interviews, and report development.

OR

Education: At least 1 year of graduate-level education or superior academic achievement, which includes:

• Class standing in the upper third of your graduating class, or
• A GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale, or
• Membership in an honor society.

You may also qualify through a combination of education and experience, fully supported by your resume and transcripts.

GS-09 Qualifications:

• Experience: At least one year of experience equivalent to GS-07, including analyzing information to identify safety concerns and interpreting, explaining, and applying technical requirements.

OR

Education: 2 years of progressively higher graduate education leading to a master's degree or a master's degree or equivalent graduate degree. A combination of education and experience is also acceptable, supported by your resume and transcripts.

GS-11 Qualifications:

• Experience: At least one year of experience equivalent to GS-09, applying transportation principles, compliance and enforcement concepts, and knowledge of chemical and physical properties of hazardous materials.

OR

Education: 3 years of graduate education leading to a Ph.D. or a Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree. A combination of education and experience is also acceptable, supported by your resume and transcripts.

GS-12 Qualifications:

• Experience: At least one year of experience equivalent to GS-11, involving hazardous materials regulations, manufacturing processes, and research activities related to safe transportation of hazardous materials.

Note: Education alone does not qualify at this level; experience is required.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs):

• Technical competence in evaluating technical information and advising on technical issues.
• Effective oral communication skills, including clear presentations and attentive listening.
• Knowledge of procedures for assessing and monitoring compliance with laws, regulations, and guidance.

Experience can include paid, unpaid, volunteer, and service work, which helps build relevant competencies. All qualifying experience will be considered.

For more information on applying for federal jobs, visit: https://www.opm.gov/frequently-asked-questions/employment-faq/federal-hiring/how-do-i-apply-for-federal-jobs/

Students enrolled in degree programs can apply if graduation is within six months of the closing date; transcripts are required before start date. Other applicants must meet all qualifications by the closing date.