Animal Care is pleased to announce the opening of two (2) Supervisory Veterinary Medical Officer (Animal Care Specialist)-GS-0701-13 positions. These positions will be located in select cites across California, Colorado, Florida and Utah. The announcement opened Tuesday, 04/21/2026 and will remain open through Monday, 04/27/2026.

Please click the following link to apply.

https://www.usajobs.gov/job/865944800#joa

FOR THE GS-13 LEVEL: Applicants must have one year of specialized experience (equivalent to the GS-12 level) that may have been obtained in the private or public (local, county, state, Federal) sectors which demonstrates:

- Applying expertise in enforcing the Animal Welfare Act and Horse Protection Act as they pertain to handling, husbandry, care, maintenance, transportation, and other means of interacting with animals.
- Analyzes complex compliances issues, identifies root causes of recurring problems, and develops corrective actions to strengthen program enforcement.
- Leads or guide teams by coordinating assignments, providing technical direction, and reviewing work for accuracy and compliance with program standards.
- Represents the program in meetings and discussions to communicate goals, clarity expectations, and foster cooperative relationships between management, employees, and stakeholders.

SUBSTITUTION OF EDUCATION FOR EXPERIENCE AT THE GS-13 GRADE LEVEL: Successful completion of a PhD degree in an area of specialization including, but not limited to: animal science, avian medicine, food safety, infectious diseases, veterinary clinical sciences, pathobiology, biomedical sciences, veterinary anatomy, veterinary preventive medicine, comparative biological sciences, epidemiology, veterinary parasitology, molecular veterinary biosciences, public health, microbiology, pathology, immunology, laboratory animal medicine, toxicology, wildlife, zoological animal medicine, or other sciences related to the work of a veterinary medical officer position.

OR RESIDENCY/POST GRADUATE TRAINING PROGRAM FOR THE GS-13 GRADE LEVEL. Successful completion of three years of an internship, residency program, or fellowship training program in a discipline related to the position. Applicants should provide a certificate or letter documenting the completion of this program.

OR BOARD CERTIFICATION FOR THE GS-13 GRADE LEVEL-Specialty boards that are recognized by the American Board of Veterinary Specialties (ABVS) of the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) certify eligible candidates as specialists in specific veterinary medical fields. Veterinarians who successfully complete all requirements for Diplomate status in an ABVS-recognized veterinary specialty organization may qualify for the GS-13 grade level. Applicants should provide a certificate or letter documenting their diplomate status.

TRANSCRIPTS are required. This position requires specific coursework or a degree in a specific field to be basically qualified. this education must have been successfully completed and obtained from an accredited school, college or university. An unofficial copy of transcripts is sufficient with the application; however official transcripts will be required if selected for the position.

Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional, philanthropic, religious, spiritual, community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.

About USDA APHIS Animal Care

Animal Care is a vital program of the U.S. Department of Agriculture. We work every day to ensure the humane treatment of more than 1 million vulnerable animals nationwide. Our job is no small task. We enforce two important laws: the Animal Welfare Act and the Horse Protection Act. Through inspections and outreach, we work with thousands of breeders, dealers, and exhibitors; research facilities; transporters; dog importers; and managers of horse shows, exhibitions, and sales to make sure their animals receive care and treatment that meets Federal standards. We also provide national leadership—including advice, resources, and direct support—on the safety and well-being of pets and other animals during disasters. Our employees are experts in the field of animal welfare, with a passion for humane care and public service. Day in and day out, they bring their best to our mission of protection. If you want to make a difference, come find your future with us!

Connections working at USDA APHIS Animal Care