The mission of the Whistleblower Protection Program is to investigate matters falling within the purview of Section 11(c) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970; and the myriad of other federal statutes containing whistleblower protections all of which fall within OSHA's jurisdiction.
This position is located in the Department of Labor, Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), Oakland, CA or Seattle, WA.
CLOSING DATE HAS BEEN EXTENDED TO 10/16/2018.
Summary
The mission of the Whistleblower Protection Program is to investigate matters falling within the purview of Section 11(c) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970; and the myriad of other federal statutes containing whistleblower protections all of which fall within OSHA's jurisdiction.
This position is located in the Department of Labor, Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), Oakland, CA or Seattle, WA.
12 - Full performance level. There is no obligation to provide future promotions; future promotions are dependent on your ability to perform the duties at a higher level, continuing need for an employee assigned to higher level, and supervisory approval.
At the GS-09 level, the incumbent investigates complaints received from employees of business enterprises who allege job discrimination under provisions of Section 11(c) of the OSH Act, Section 405 of the STAA, Section 211 of AHERA, Section 7 of ISCA or other whistleblower statutes, as assigned. Interviews complainant and witnesses and takes statements concerning allegations. Follows through on leads resulting from such interviews and takes affidavits as indicated. Reviews case files to obtain background information concerning any proceedings which relate to the complaint. Reviews pertinent records which may include personnel records, payrolls, collective bargaining agreements, grievances, union meeting minutes, correspondence and related proceedings. Secures exhibits and summarizes cases. Makes recommendations to the supervisor concerning the appropriate course of action to be recommended or followed by determining the merits of the case and by evaluating testimony and the applicability of OSHA policies and court decisions. Follows through on implementation of agreements or court orders, determining specific actions necessary and the sufficiency of actions taken or proposed by respondents. Conducts the evaluation and monitoring of State Plan discrimination programs and/or investigates Complaints About State Program Administration (CASPAs), as those CASPAs relate to or contain allegations of discrimination. Provides information, advice and assistance to representatives of labor and management, attorneys, employees and the public. Provides assistance to Regional Solicitors of the Department of Labor on complaints pending the determination of merit by providing information or formal depositions concerning interviews with the complainant and other involved parties in the investigation, and assists by developing further evidence when desired by the Solicitor. Testifies on behalf of the Government in U.S. District Courts as required.
At the GS-11, the incumbent conducts investigations that involve one or more of the following situations: (1) serious obstacles hinder progress in establishing facts, interpreting evidence, and achieving compliance; (2) the investigation involves issues which require analysis of a complex set of policies and practices, typically involving activities of organizations having several branches or subsidiaries; or (3) more than one reasonable interpretation exists of legal or other guidance, and therefore of the appropriate conclusions to be drawn from the facts. Conducts negotiations with employer, employer legal representative, and/or other employer representative, for a major or significant company (e.g., multi-site employer, national chain, large employer for geographic area, etc.), that result in changes to existing or development of new policies, practices, etc. that concern whistleblower safety and health issues and other issues. Evaluates and monitors state plan occupational safety and health discrimination programs to ensure compliance with Federal OSH laws and regulations. Plans and conducts a variety of outreach activities with employers, employee groups, Federal and state agencies, and other organizations that are concerned with program related whistleblower issues or actions. Provides technical assistance and advice relating to a variety of program activities that includes working closely with OSHA's Regional Solicitor on discrimination cases that have been referred for legal action; working with OSHA's CSHO staff on assignments such as complex fatality investigations or serving as a team member on cross functional assignments that concern safety, health and investigations related work; working with National Office whistleblower staff on assignments such as developing nationwide guidelines or developing and/or participating in training courses for Federal and state plan personnel; and providing training or guidance to OSHA's safety and health staff due to changes to the whistleblower program, needs of new or established staff, etc.
Requires a probationary period if the requirement has not been met.
U.S. Citizenship.
Appointment to this position may require a background investigation.
Requires a valid drivers license.
Applicants must meet all legal and regulatory requirements. Reference the "Required Documents" section for additional requirements.
Qualifications
Applicants must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level (GS-07 for GS-09; GS-09 for GS-11) in the Federal service.
Specialized Experience is experience which is in or directly related to the position to be filled and which has equipped the candidate with the particular knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform the duties of position.
For the GS-09 level, specialized experience is experience conducting investigations using accepted methodology and problem solving techniques; taking statements from witnesses, third parties, and other knowledgeable persons; researching, analyzing, interpreting, and evaluating data and information to make appropriate recommendations; and preparing reports and technical information.
For the GS-11, specialized experience is experience in planning, preparing, and conducting employment-related whistleblower investigations with little or no supervision; and completed in a timely manner. Case recommendations are supported by the existence of relevant evidence. The incumbent will also plan, prepare and conduct complex negotiations to effect fair and equitable settlement agreements. There are considerable written tasks associated with this position. For example, this position requires experience in writing complex case reports that demonstrate clarity, correct grammar, spelling and syntax; and which involves an appropriate analysis of the facts.
Applicants may also substitute education for experience.
For GS-09: Applicants must possess a master's or equivalent graduate degree or two (2) full years of progressively higher level graduate education leading to such a degree or LL.B. or J.D., if related.
For GS-11: Applicants must possess a Ph.D. degree or equivalent graduate degree or three (3) full years of progressively higher level graduate education leading to such a degree or LL.M., if related.
Education must have been gained in a curriculum that is qualifying for the position to be filled.
Equivalent combinations of education and experience are qualifying for this position.
Must be able to obtain and maintain a valid Driver's License.
Education
College Transcript and Evaluation of Foreign Education - The Department of Labor does not recognize academic degrees from unauthorized secondary schools or post-secondary institutions that are not accredited by an accrediting body recognized by the Department of Education. Any applicant falsely claiming an academic degree from an accredited school will be subject to actions ranging from disqualification from federal employment to removal from federal service. If your education was completed at a foreign college or university, you must show comparability to education received in accredited educational institutions in the United States and comparability to applicable minimum course work requirements for this position. Click Evaluation of Foreign Education for more information.
Additional information
DOL seeks to attract and retain a high performing and diverse workforce in which employees’ differences are respected and valued to better meet the varying needs of the diverse customers we serve. DOL fosters a diverse and inclusive work environment that promotes collaboration, flexibility and fairness so that all individuals are able to participate and contribute to their full potential.
The Department of Labor does not make unfavorable hiring decisions on the basis of an applicant's previous or current unemployment, or the fact that an applicant has experienced financial difficulty through no fault of his/her own and has undertaken good faith efforts to meet his/her financial obligations. Consideration is given to financial status in relation to appointments only where required by law, regulation, or Executive Order.
At least one position may be filled from this vacancy either in Oakland, CA or Seattle, WA. Should additional vacancies become available, additional selection may be made through this announcement.
Salary ranges:
GS-09: Oakland, CA: $61,084 to $79,410 per annum; Seattle, WA: $54,869 to $71,331 per annum.
GS-11: Oakland, CA: $73,905 to $96,080 per annum; Seattle, WA: $66,386 to $86,305 per annum.
A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.
How you will be evaluated
You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.
If you meet the minimum qualifications, you will be evaluated against the evaluation factors below and will be placed into a category based on your vacancy question responses.
Categories
Category A - Meets the basic qualification requirements for the vacancy and has successful experience in the same or similar job that has demonstrated superior proficiency in applying critical competencies required by this position to work of increased levels of difficulty and complexity.
Category B - Meets the basic qualification requirements for the vacancy and demonstrates satisfactory proficiency in the critical competencies required by this position.
Category C - Meets the specialized experience described in the minimum qualifications requirements section of this announcement and demonstrates proficiency in the basic competencies.
Evaluation Factors (Competencies) - All qualified applicants will be evaluated on the following key competencies:
Conduct of Investigations: Knowledge of investigative principles and techniques; ability to investigate and analyze operations and practices, background information, and other evidentiary materials; ability to draft clear and comprehensive reports including investigative findings and recommendation for corrective actions.
Interpersonal Skills: Shows understanding, professionalism, courtesy, tact, empathy, concern, and politeness to others; develops and maintains effective relationships with others; may include effectively dealing with individuals who are difficult, hostile, or distressed; relates well to people from varied backgrounds and different situations; is sensitive to cultural diversity, race, gender, disabilities, and other individual differences.
Communication: Clearly and effectively conveys information (orally and in writing) to individuals and groups, taking into account the audience and nature of the information. Persuades others to accept recommendations.
Self-Management: Sets well-defined and realistic personal goals; displays a high level of initiative, effort, and commitment towards completing assignments in a timely manner; works with minimal supervision; is motivated to achieve; demonstrates responsible behavior.
The information you provide may be verified by a review of your work experience and/or education, by checking references and through other means (ex. interview). The examining Human Resources Office (HRO) makes the final determination concerning applicant ratings. Your resume MUST provide sufficient information to substantiate your responses to the vacancy questions. If not, the HRO may amend your responses to more accurately reflect the level of competency indicated by the content of your resume. Your evaluation may also include a review by a Human Resources Specialist or panel and may include other assessments (ex. interview, panel review, written test, writing sample, etc.)
INFORMATION FOR ICTAP/CTAP ELIGIBLES ONLY: If you are eligible for special priority selection under ICTAP/CTAP, you must be well-qualified for the position to receive consideration. ICTAP/CTAP eligibles who are placed into Category B or higher will be considered "well-qualified".
A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.
The following documents must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. (ET) on the vacancy closing date. Follow the instructions: click How To Submit Supplemental Documentation Document. You are not required to submit a document if it does not apply to you. Warning: If you submit a document using the same document title, the 2nd submission will OVERWRITE the 1st submission. Also, do not upload password protected documents.
- Veterans Documents (if applicable): To be considered as a 5-point preference eligible, you must submit a copy of your Certificate of Release or Discharge From Active Duty, DD214. Your DD-214 must show the type of discharge and dates of active duty. To claim 10-point preference, you must submit a copy of your DD214; an Application for 10-point Veteran's Preference, SF15; and the proof of entitlement of this preference which is normally an official statement, dated 1991 or later, from the Department of Veterans Affairs certifying to the present existence of the service-connected disability and indicating the percentage of your disability. (For active duty service members expecting honorable or general discharge or release within 120 days, click Active Duty). Without this documentation, you will not receive veteran's preference. For more information, go to: http://www.fedshirevets.gov/hire/hrp/vetguide/index.aspx
- Displaced Employee Placement Documents – Only required if requesting priority consideration under CTAP or ICTAP eligibility.
- Cover Letters are not mandatory and will not be used to verify experience, but may be submitted
Applicants selected for employment who are not current DOL employees will be required to provide proof of citizenship, and the E-Verify system will be used to confirm the employment eligibility of all new hires.
If you are relying on your education to meet qualification requirements:
Failure to provide all of the required information as stated in this vacancy announcement may result in an ineligible rating or may affect the overall rating.
Follow the steps below to apply. Your application and ALL required supplemental documents MUST be received by 11:59 pm Eastern Time (ET) on the vacancy closing date to receive consideration. Paper applications and supplemental documents submitted in any other manner without prior approval from the vacancy contact will not be considered. Click here for information on Reasonable Accommodations.
SAVE your information before the 30 MINUTE TIMEOUT! For help, go to https://www.usajobs.gov/Help/how-to/.
STEP 1 - Create USAJOBS Account on www.usajobs.gov, including Resume and Saved Documents Your resume must provide sufficient information to substantiate your responses in the self-assessment vacancy questions. If not, HR may amend your responses to more accurately reflect the competency indicated by resume content. FOR EACH EMPLOYMENT PERIOD, include: start/end month & year and note full-time or part-time (if part-time, include # of hours worked per week); otherwise, your application may be considered incomplete.
STEP 2 - Complete the 1st part of the application process (USAJOBS) Once you have identified a job on www.usajobs.gov that you wish to apply for, click on the title and click the Apply button . For questions about the vacancy, contact the Agency Contact at the bottom of the announcement. Click “Start Application” and proceed through 5 steps noted at the top of the USAJOBS page. You will be able to select a resume and documents from your USAJOBS Account that you can submit as a package as part of your DOL application. At Step 5, click “Continue to Agency Site”.
STEP 3 – Complete the 2nd part of the application process (DOL) On the Department of Labor (DOL) page, create a DOL Account if you have not already and click “APPLY TO THIS VACANCY”. Continue through the 7 progress steps indicated by circles at the top of the DOL page. The 3rd progress step is where you answer the vacancy specific questions. The 4th progress step "Documents" is where you submit required documents (only if applicable to you) specified in the "Required Documents" section of this vacancy. If you submit a document using the same document title, the 2nd submission will OVERWRITE the 1st submission.
STEP 4 – On the “Review and Submit” step, click “Submit Application” The last “Confirmation” step will turn green noting that your application was submitted successfully.
STEP 5 - Edit Application as needed by 11:59 pm ET of Closing Date by returning to USAJOBS, clicking the vacancy, then “Update Application”.
Labor, Occupational Safety and Health Admin
.
San Francisco, California 94103
United States
Next steps
Once your complete application is received, we will conduct an evaluation of your qualifications and refer candidates for selection consideration. Candidates will be referred to the hiring manager for further consideration and possible interview. You will be notified of the outcome. A selection is expected to be made within 30 calendar days from the issuance date of the certificate.
The following documents must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. (ET) on the vacancy closing date. Follow the instructions: click How To Submit Supplemental Documentation Document. You are not required to submit a document if it does not apply to you. Warning: If you submit a document using the same document title, the 2nd submission will OVERWRITE the 1st submission. Also, do not upload password protected documents.
- Veterans Documents (if applicable): To be considered as a 5-point preference eligible, you must submit a copy of your Certificate of Release or Discharge From Active Duty, DD214. Your DD-214 must show the type of discharge and dates of active duty. To claim 10-point preference, you must submit a copy of your DD214; an Application for 10-point Veteran's Preference, SF15; and the proof of entitlement of this preference which is normally an official statement, dated 1991 or later, from the Department of Veterans Affairs certifying to the present existence of the service-connected disability and indicating the percentage of your disability. (For active duty service members expecting honorable or general discharge or release within 120 days, click Active Duty). Without this documentation, you will not receive veteran's preference. For more information, go to: http://www.fedshirevets.gov/hire/hrp/vetguide/index.aspx
- Displaced Employee Placement Documents – Only required if requesting priority consideration under CTAP or ICTAP eligibility.
- Cover Letters are not mandatory and will not be used to verify experience, but may be submitted
Applicants selected for employment who are not current DOL employees will be required to provide proof of citizenship, and the E-Verify system will be used to confirm the employment eligibility of all new hires.
If you are relying on your education to meet qualification requirements:
Failure to provide all of the required information as stated in this vacancy announcement may result in an ineligible rating or may affect the overall rating.
Follow the steps below to apply. Your application and ALL required supplemental documents MUST be received by 11:59 pm Eastern Time (ET) on the vacancy closing date to receive consideration. Paper applications and supplemental documents submitted in any other manner without prior approval from the vacancy contact will not be considered. Click here for information on Reasonable Accommodations.
SAVE your information before the 30 MINUTE TIMEOUT! For help, go to https://www.usajobs.gov/Help/how-to/.
STEP 1 - Create USAJOBS Account on www.usajobs.gov, including Resume and Saved Documents Your resume must provide sufficient information to substantiate your responses in the self-assessment vacancy questions. If not, HR may amend your responses to more accurately reflect the competency indicated by resume content. FOR EACH EMPLOYMENT PERIOD, include: start/end month & year and note full-time or part-time (if part-time, include # of hours worked per week); otherwise, your application may be considered incomplete.
STEP 2 - Complete the 1st part of the application process (USAJOBS) Once you have identified a job on www.usajobs.gov that you wish to apply for, click on the title and click the Apply button . For questions about the vacancy, contact the Agency Contact at the bottom of the announcement. Click “Start Application” and proceed through 5 steps noted at the top of the USAJOBS page. You will be able to select a resume and documents from your USAJOBS Account that you can submit as a package as part of your DOL application. At Step 5, click “Continue to Agency Site”.
STEP 3 – Complete the 2nd part of the application process (DOL) On the Department of Labor (DOL) page, create a DOL Account if you have not already and click “APPLY TO THIS VACANCY”. Continue through the 7 progress steps indicated by circles at the top of the DOL page. The 3rd progress step is where you answer the vacancy specific questions. The 4th progress step "Documents" is where you submit required documents (only if applicable to you) specified in the "Required Documents" section of this vacancy. If you submit a document using the same document title, the 2nd submission will OVERWRITE the 1st submission.
STEP 4 – On the “Review and Submit” step, click “Submit Application” The last “Confirmation” step will turn green noting that your application was submitted successfully.
STEP 5 - Edit Application as needed by 11:59 pm ET of Closing Date by returning to USAJOBS, clicking the vacancy, then “Update Application”.
Labor, Occupational Safety and Health Admin
.
San Francisco, California 94103
United States
Next steps
Once your complete application is received, we will conduct an evaluation of your qualifications and refer candidates for selection consideration. Candidates will be referred to the hiring manager for further consideration and possible interview. You will be notified of the outcome. A selection is expected to be made within 30 calendar days from the issuance date of the certificate.
