The Safety & Occupational Health Specialist supports safety and health staff in regulatory compliance, research, training, program development, accident prevention, and safety surveys in a healthcare environment. The employee assumes additional responsibilities for all aspects of the safety program while conducting comprehensive inspections related to safety, occupational health, construction, fire prevention, fire protection, and/or fire inspection programs.
**Please be advised this occupation is currently undergoing a classification consistency review that may result in a change in title, series, and/or grade if determined by the Office of Personnel Management (OPM). A consistency review is required for this position as a result of an OPM appeal related to the occupation.
A "consistency review" is the process that involves a classification review of positions performing work that is identical, or related to an OPM appeal to ensure they are classified consistently and in accordance with OPM standards.
If a reduction in grade occurs, you could be eligible for grade and/or pay retention.** Major duties include but are not limited to: Collaborate with supervisors, safety & occupational health committees, and other staff to eliminate or control hazardous operations and conditions. Identify hazards, detect risks, and determine causal relationships; developing abatement recommendations for safety and occupational health hazards.
Study variables and retrace sequences to uncover the sources of reported injuries and illnesses. Assure the validity of collected data, accurate documentation of occurrences and data summaries, and maintenance of program information. Examine available data to identify possible sources of losses experienced. Prepare summary documentation related to safety and occupational health. Develop educational material and techniques related to safety and occupational health.
Conduct safety and orientation classes for all employees. Participate in the management of the operating budget for the service, including safety, occupational health, and fire protection matters. Conduct workplace inspections to identify violations. Review proposed/required corrective actions to ensure accomplishment of hazard abatement. Recommend sampling strategies for performance of exposure surveys. Performs other duties as assigned.
Promotion Potential: The selectee may be promoted to the full performance level without further competition when all regulatory, qualification, and performance requirements are met. Selection at a lower grade level does not guarantee promotion to the full performance level. Work Schedule: Monday - Friday, 8:00am - 4:30pm Virtual: This is not a virtual position.
Position Description/PD#: Safety & Occupational Health Specialist/PD23511A and PD23512A Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not authorized Critical Skills Incentive (CSI): Not approved Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not authorized The VA Midwest Health Care Network advocates for a Whole Health System of care in each of the Medical Centers.
This is an approach to healthcare that empowers and equips people to take charge of their health and well-being and live their lives to the fullest. As an employee operating in a Whole Health System of care, you will operate in a model with three core elements, seeking to create a personalized health plan for each Veteran. This is done in the context of healing relationships and healing environments and a connection back to the Veteran's community.
This aligns with the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) Mission Statement to Honor America's Veterans by providing exceptional health care that improves their health and well-being.
A transcript must be submitted with your application if you are basing all or part of your qualifications on education. Note: Only education or degrees recognized by the U.S. Department of Education from accredited colleges, universities, schools, or institutions may be used to qualify for Federal employment. You can verify your education here: http://ope.ed.gov/accreditation/.
If you are using foreign education to meet qualification requirements, you must send a Certificate of Foreign Equivalency with your transcript in order to receive credit for that education. For further information, visit: https://sites.ed.gov/international/recognition-of-foreign-qualifications/.
sarah.watson10@va.gov · 319-339-7183
This position is with Veterans Health Administration, Department of Veterans Affairs.
The posted pay range is $61722 – $97087/yr.
Applications close on 2026-10-19.
This position is open under the 'Fed Transition' hiring path.
Source: USAJOBS.gov — U.S. Federal Government · Retrieved 2026-10-14 · Not affiliated with or endorsed by OPM or USAJOBS.gov
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