Supervisory Veterinary Medical Officer
About This Position
Organizational Location: This position is with the Department of Homeland Security, within U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Office of Training and Development, Field Operations Canine Academy located in Front Royal, Virginia. Additional selections may be made beyond the total number of vacancies specified using this vacancy announcement. Further selections may also be made for additional organizational divisions and/or units within the duty location(s) listed above.
Qualifications
Basic Requirement: Qualifying applicants must meet the basic educational requirement outlined in sections 1 or 2 below.
- Possess a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) or equivalent degree, i.e., Veterinary Medical Doctor (VMD), obtained at a school or college of veterinary medicine accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association Council on Education (AVMA). (Refer to http://www.avma.org for a listing of all AVMA-accredited veterinary medical schools). OR 2.
Graduate of a foreign veterinary medical school that was not accredited by the AVMA Council on Education (refer to AVMA web site, http://www.avma.org for information about schools in this category) but meets one of the following requirements: Proof of certification of final transcript by the Educational Commission for Foreign Veterinary Graduates. Possession of a permanent, full, and unrestricted license to practice veterinary medicine in a State, District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, or a territory of the United States that includes successful completion of the North American Veterinary Licensing Examination or its predecessors, the National Board Examination and the Clinical Competency Test. Proof that the education obtained in a foreign veterinary medical program is equivalent to that gained in a veterinary medical program that is accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association Council on Education Under this provision, equivalency is established only if an AVMA-accredited veterinary medical school or college accepts the graduate's final transcript from the foreign veterinary medical school at full value for placement into an advanced degree, postgraduate educational program, or training program (e.g. residency or graduate program).
Graduates of foreign veterinary medical programs must also provide proof of proficiency in the English language by successfully completing one of the nationally and internationally recognized examinations that incorporate assessments of reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills such as: Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) - Minimum scores for the TOEFL are 560 for the paper-based version; 220 for the computer-based version; or overall score of 83 for the internet-based version (including 26 or higher in speaking, 26 or higher in listening, and 17 or higher in writing). For the computer-based and paper-based test versions, applicants must also complete the Test of Spoken English (TSE) and the Test of Written English (TWE). Minimum required scores are 55 for the TSE and 5.5 for the TWE; Academic tests (listening, writing, and speaking) offered by the International English Language Testing System (IELTS).
Applicants must achieve a minimum overall band score of 7.0, with at least 7.0 in speaking, 6.5 in listening, and 6.0 in writing; OR Canadian Academic English Language Assessment (CAEL).
Applicants must achieve a minimum overall band score of 70, with at least 60 in speaking, 60 in listening, and 50 in writing. You qualify for this position if you possess one year of specialized experience or substitution of education, as described below and meet the basic requirement listed above. Specialized Experience: You qualify for the GS-14 grade level if you possess 1 year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level, performing duties such as: Providing advice, guidance, implementation, coordination, and direction on a range of administrative functions and operational issues, policies, procedures, and directives.
Identifying requirements, initiating requests for additional resources including personnel, equipment, supplies, to meet training goals and objectives. Providing scientific and regulatory recommendations on veterinary laws, interpret and apply laws, regulations, policies and procedures related to veterinary medicine. Examining and providing comprehensive veterinary care for canines which involves addressing a range of health and well-being aspects to ensure they lead a healthy life; provide expert advice on veterinary issues and procedures related to the care of canines.
Directing and planning work, setting and adjusting priorities, preparing work schedules, determining resource requirements, recommending awards, and holding employees responsible for satisfactory completion of work assignments.
NOTE: Your resume must explicitly indicate how you meet this requirement, otherwise you will be found ineligible. Please see the "Required Documents" section below for additional resume requirements. 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, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment.
You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
You must meet all qualification requirements, including education if applicable to this position, subject to verification at any stage of the application process by 04/07/2026. The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) must authorize employment offers made to current or former political appointees. If you are currently, or have been within the last 5 years, a political Schedule A, Schedule C, Non-career SES or Presidential Appointee employee in the Executive Branch, you must disclose this information to the Human Resources Office.
Background Investigation: U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is a federal law enforcement agency that requires all applicants to undergo a thorough background investigation prior to employment in order to promote the agency's core values of vigilance, service to country, and integrity. During the screening and/or background investigation process, you will be asked questions regarding any felony criminal convictions or current felony charges, the use of illegal drugs (e.g., marijuana, cocaine, heroin, LSD, methamphetamines, ecstasy), and the use of non-prescribed controlled substances including any experimentation, possession, sale, receipt, manufacture, cultivation, production, transfer, shipping, trafficking, or distribution of controlled substances.
For additional information on the preemployment process, review the following link: Applicant Resources | CBP Careers Residency: There is a residency requirement for all applicants not currently employed by CBP. Individuals are required to have physically resided in the United States or its protectorates (as declared under international law) for at least three of the last five years. If you do not meet the residency requirement and you have been physically located in a foreign location for more than two of the last five years, you may request an exception to determine if you are eligible for a residency waiver by meeting one or more of the following conditions: Working for the U.S.
Government as a federal civilian or as a member of the military A dependent who was authorized to accompany a federal civilian or member of the military who was working for the U.S. government Participation in a study abroad program sponsored by a U.S. affiliated college or university Working as a contractor, intern, consultant or volunteer supporting the U.S. government Probationary Period: All employees new to the federal government must serve a one year probationary period during the first year of his/her initial permanent federal appointment to determine fitness for continued employment. Current and former federal employees may be required to serve or complete a probationary period.
Major Duties
In this position you will serve as the Supervisory Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (SDVM) in which you will be responsible for the performance and oversight of comprehensive medical, emergency, and surgical care to canines assigned to the CBP Canine Program.
This position starts at a salary of $143,913.00 (GS-14, Step 1) to $187,093.00 (GS-14, Step 10). Major duties include: Directing, implementing, coordinating, and overseeing the veterinarian services and kennel support branch within CBP/OTD Canine Training Academy/Center. Physically examining and assessing newly acquired canines and evaluating a canine's medical condition against agency-prescribed requirements to determine a canine's medical readiness and fitness level to become a duty canine.
Providing direct supervision to Veterinarian, Animal Health Technicians, Supervisory Animal Caretakers, Animal Caretakers and Mission Support personnel; recommending awards, approving leave, hearing and resolving employee complaints. Responsible for the breeding and puppy rearing program, including identifying and coordinating medical and genetic testing of potential breeding candidates to identify abnormalities and ensure ethical breeding practices. Performing surgical procedures, dental procedures and is proficient in all aspects of anesthesia, including formulation of anesthetic and pain management protocols.
Providing executive-level advice in planning short and long-range strategies and provides technical support and instructional assistance to requesting CBP components. Working closely with senior leaders in the planning, development, and delivery, evaluation, integration, and coordination of all the medical requirements of a service-wide canine training program(s) and related activities. Ensuring fair and equitable treatment with respect to assignments, training, details, discipline, and awards to employees.
Conditions of Employment
You must be a U.S. Citizen to apply for this position Males born after 12/31/1959 must be registered with Selective Service Primary U.S. residency for at least three of the last five years (additional details below) All pre-employment processes will be conducted in English You may be required to pass a background investigation CBP follows the DHS Drug-Free Workplace Plan for drug testing procedures As an employee of CBP, you will be joining a workforce that is dedicated to accomplishing our mission while maintaining the trust of our Nation by strictly adhering to all government ethics standards.
Your conduct will be subject to the ethics rules applicable to all Executive Branch employees, and to CBP employees specifically, as well as the criminal conflict of interest statutes. Once you enter on duty, these rules include obtaining approval for outside employment or business activity, to ensure such employment or business activity is not prohibited and does not interfere or conflict with performance of your official duties. Please review further details via the following link.
DHS uses E-Verify, an Internet-based system, to confirm the eligibility of all newly hired employees to work in the United States. Learn more about E-Verify including your rights and responsibilities. Bargaining Unit: This position is not covered under the bargaining unit.
Education
Please see the Qualifications and Required Documents sections for more information if education is applicable to this position.
How You Will Be Evaluated
This position is being filled under a Direct Hire Authority. We will review your resume and supporting documentation to ensure you meet the minimum qualification requirements. All applicants who meet minimum qualifications and any basic requirements applicable to this position, will be forwarded to the hiring manager for consideration and may be contacted for an interview.
As a part of the interview process, additional selection criteria may be administered by the hiring manager. The competencies or knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to perform this job are: Ability to hear and resolve complaints from employees, group grievances and more serious unresolved complaints. Ability to evaluate work performance and serves as rating official for performance appraisals prepared for subordinate employees assuring reasonable equity across the organizational component.
Ability to plan, direct and oversee operational work requirements to be accomplished by subordinate employees. Skill in evaluating and interpreting lab specimens along with developing nutritional plans for different breeds of canines. Skill in monitoring, analyzing and responding to various situations and communicating medical findings and recommendations verbally and in writing.
Ability to resolve medical and administrative problems complying with Federal laws, agency regulations, and written instructions. Ability to educate staff on disease transmission and provide advice and assistance in all aspects of canine care including, evaluating, medicating and the induction, and maintenance of anesthesia. Veterans: Veterans preference does not apply to selections made using the Direct Hire Authority.
Veteran applicants will be considered along with all other applicants who apply. Agency Career Transition Assistance Program (CTAP) or the Interagency Career Transition Assistance Program (ICTAP) Eligibles: If you have never worked for the federal government, you are not CTAP/ICTAP eligible. View information about CTAP/ICTAP eligibility on OPM's Career Transition Resources website.
To be considered under CTAP/ICTAP, you must have knowledge, skills, abilities and/or competencies as defined above which clearly exceed the minimum qualification and any applicable basic requirements for the vacancy. In addition, you must submit the supporting documents listed under the Required Documents section of this job announcement.
Additional Information
Supervisory Probationary Period: You may be required to serve an 18-month probationary period upon appointment. Leadership Training: All newly appointed first-time CBP Supervisors are required to complete mandatory training. The training will be scheduled by the Office of Training and Development within the first 90 days of appointment. The duration of the training will include three (3) weeks of in-residence training in Harpers Ferry, WV.
Note: This training may be waived if previously completed. Certifications: Must possess and maintain a current, valid state veterinary license and obtain a Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) license for the veterinary clinic. Accreditation: Must possess and maintain USDA National Veterinary Program accreditation to issue interstate and international health certificates.
On call: On call after hours and weekends to support dogs serviced by CBP. Driver's License: Must possess and maintain a valid state driver's license. Medical Requirement: Individuals must be physically and mentally able to safely and efficiently perform the full range of duties of the position without creating hazards to themselves or others.
Individuals must be physically and mentally able to perform the full range of duties of the position safely and efficiently without creating hazards to themselves or others. Ability to lift 50 lbs. and long periods of standing, restraining, kneeling, reaching and sitting, etc. Exposure to intermittent excessive noise.
The Department of Homeland Security encourages persons with disabilities to apply, to include persons with intellectual, severe physical or psychiatric disabilities, as defined by 5 CFR § 213.3102(u), and/or Disabled Veterans with a compensable service-connected disability of 30 percent or more as defined by 5 CFR § 315.707. Veterans, Peace Corps/VISTA volunteers, and persons with disabilities possess a wealth of unique talents, experiences, and competencies that can be invaluable to the DHS mission. If you are a member of one of these groups, you may not have to compete with the public for federal jobs.
To determine your eligibility for non-competitive appointment and to understand the required documentation, click on the links above or contact the Servicing Human Resources Office listed at the bottom of this announcement.
How to Apply
To begin your online application, click "Apply Online" to create a USAJOBS account and follow the prompts or log in to your existing account.
Your application packet must include a completed assessment questionnaire, a resume, and any applicable and/or required supporting documentation. Please see the "Required Documents" section for additional information. All application materials, including transcripts, must be in English. Applications and supporting documentation will not be accepted by mail or email. The address below is for inquiries only.
You may apply more than once, but the most recent application is the only one that will be used.
You must submit your resume, your online questionnaire, and any supporting documents by 11:59 PM Eastern Time on 04/07/2026. It is your responsibility to verify that any information entered or uploaded is received and is accurate. Human Resources will not modify or change any part of your application.
Determining your eligibility and qualifications is dependent on the supporting documentation and information provided, which may impact your referral for further consideration. If a document is not legible, you will not be able to view it in your application and you must again upload it by the closing date Please upload your resume under the "Resume" document type. Any other relevant supporting documents should be uploaded under their appropriate document types as mentioned above.
Only resumes up to a total of two pages will be accepted. Applicants with resumes exceeding two pages will be removed from consideration. Do not submit documents as a PDF Portfolios. DHS offers competitive salaries and an attractive benefits package, including: health, dental, vision, life, and long-term care insurance; retirement plan; Thrift Savings Plan [similar to a 401(k)]; Flexible Spending Account; Employee Assistance Program; personal leave days; and paid federal holidays.
Other benefits may include: flexible work schedules; tuition reimbursement; transportation subsidies; uniform allowance; health and wellness programs; and fitness centers. DHS is committed to employee development and offers a variety of employee training and developmental opportunities. For more information, go to the DHS Careers website and select "Benefits." Disabled veteran leave will be available to any Federal employee hired on or after November 5, 2016, who is a veteran with a service-connected disability rating of 30 percent or more.
When U.S. Customs and Border Protection completes their selections, the remaining list of qualified candidates may be shared with hiring managers and Human Resources specialists at additional agencies who are hiring for similar positions. There is no guarantee of further consideration, and you can continue to explore other job opportunity announcements.
The Fair Chance to Compete for Jobs Act prohibits the Department of Homeland Security and its Components from requesting an applicant's criminal history record before that individual receives a conditional offer of employment. In accordance with 5 U.S. Code § 9202(c) and 5 C.F.R § 920.201 certain positions are exempt from the provisions of the Fair Chance to Compete Act.
Applicants who believe they have been subjected to a violation of the Fair Chance to Compete for Jobs Act, may submit a written complaint to [email protected]. View common definitions of terms in this announcement.
Required Documents
Your resume: A resume describing your job-related qualifications is required and will be used for the purpose of reviewing your qualifications and determining what training, if any, would be required when placed. A resume in English is required. It must contain your full legal name, phone number, relevant work history including a detailed description of your duties, the dates you performed those duties (MM/DD/YY), your hours worked per week, job title, as well as series, grade, and salary (if applicable).
For additional required items, see the link. It is recommended that you upload your resume as a PDF instead of a Word document to ensure document quality. Ensure that your uploaded resume is not a password protected document, to include Office 365 passwords.
Limit your resume to no more than two pages. The USAJOBS database will not allow an applicant to submit an application that includes a resume over two pages.
Your responses to the job questionnaire: https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/12924725 Your transcripts: All applicants are required to submit a copy of your college transcript (unofficial is acceptable at this time; however, official copies will be required prior to entrance on duty) or a list of coursework with hours completed provided from the institution. If you are a current CBP employee within the position series announced, transcripts will not be required at the time of application; however, education will be verified if you are selected and you may be required to submit transcripts at that time. Education must be from an institution accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S.
Department of Education. Education obtained from a foreign university or college is not creditable unless it has been evaluated by an organization that specializes in interpretation of education credentials.
Note: If submitting documentation of an evaluation, transcripts are still required. For a listing of some accrediting agencies see NACES | Credentials Evaluations Provided by NACES Members. See https://www.accreditation.info/education-quality/usa-recognition.html for more information. Are you claiming special priority selection rights under the Agency Career Transition Assistance Program (CTAP), Interagency Career Transition Assistance Program (ICTAP), or the Reemployment Priority List (RPL)?
You must submit a separation notice; your most recent SF-50 (noting your current position, grade level and duty location); a copy of your most recent performance rating; 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 of National Guard Bureau notification that you are retired under 5 U.S.C. 8337(h) or 8456; or RPL registration documentation. Are you a current or former federal employee? If yes, it is recommended that you submit a copy of your SF-50(s) (Notification of Personnel Action) to support your experience.
Examples of appropriate SF-50s include promotions, within-grade increases and accessions. Retired former federal employees are required to submit your retirement SF-50 and encouraged to submit your most recent annuity statement. Are you a current or former political Schedule A, Schedule C, Non-career SES or Presidential Appointee employee?
Submit a copy of your initial and termination SF-50s.