Supervisory Veterinary Medical Officer / Public Health Veterinarian

About the role

This position leads meat and poultry inspection operations within slaughter and processing establishments, ensuring compliance with federal food safety regulations and public health standards. The officer serves as a team leader for public health professionals, overseeing sanitation, labeling, and hazard control throughout the food supply chain.

Key responsibilities

• Plan, organize, and coordinate meat and poultry inspection activities in slaughter and processing facilities.
• Ensure establishments meet Pathogen Reduction and HACCP requirements.
• Oversee consumer protection issues such as proper labeling and packaging.
• Lead and supervise public health staff to maintain sanitation standards and hazard control systems.
• Enforce Federal meat and poultry inspection procedures, including humane handling, ante‑mortem and post‑mortem inspections, and product disposition.
• Consult with plant management on regulatory changes and policy updates.
• Maintain labor‑management relations and represent management viewpoints.
• Apply EEO and safety principles, train subordinates, evaluate performance, and handle grievances.

Required profile

• U.S. citizen or national; males born after 12/31/1959 must be registered with Selective Service.
• Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree with transcript.
• Successful background investigation, fingerprint check, and E‑Verify verification.
• Completion of a one‑year probationary period and required training within 12 months.
• Pre‑employment medical examination and ability to use a government‑issued charge card for travel.

Required skills

• Knowledge of Pathogen Reduction and HACCP regulations.
• Expertise in Federal meat and poultry inspection procedures.
• Experience with ante‑mortem and post‑mortem inspection processes.

What we offer

• Federal employment benefits, including direct deposit and comprehensive health coverage.
• Opportunities for professional development and advancement within USDA.