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Biodefense Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Booz Allen Hamilton

Bio-Deterrence SME

Arlington, VA

$112K - $257K/yr

As aBio-Deterrence SME you'll leverage your advanced knowledge of biodefense measures, bio surveillance, epidemiology, and biological threat mitigation to strengthen policy frameworks and operational ...

Axle

Scientific Editor

Rockville, MD

... biodefense and antimicrobial resistance. A Master's degree in a related discipline and a minimum of eleven years of related experience are required (three years of specialized experience plus a ...

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How much do biodefense jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for biodefense in Reston, VA is $45.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $35.00 and $53.51 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is biodefense?

A Biodefense job involves protecting people, animals, and the environment from biological threats, such as infectious diseases, bioterrorism, and pandemics. Professionals in this field work in government agencies, research institutions, healthcare, and private industries to develop countermeasures, policies, and response strategies. Their responsibilities may include disease surveillance, biodefense policy development, laboratory research, and emergency preparedness planning.

What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities in biodefense?

Professionals working in Biodefense commonly engage in tasks such as monitoring biological threats, developing response plans, conducting risk assessments, and collaborating with scientists, government agencies, and public health officials. Day-to-day work can include laboratory research, reviewing outbreak data, writing technical reports, and participating in emergency preparedness drills. Many roles also involve ongoing training in biosafety procedures and staying current with emerging infectious disease trends. This collaborative and dynamic environment requires adaptability and proactive communication to respond quickly to potential biological incidents.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in biodefense?

To thrive in Biodefense, you generally need a background in biology, microbiology, public health, or a related field, often backed by an advanced degree and specialized training in infectious diseases or threat assessment. Familiarity with laboratory safety protocols, bioinformatics tools, and certifications such as Certified Biosafety Professional (CBSP) or HAZMAT training is highly valued. Strong analytical thinking, clear communication, and the ability to work well under pressure are key soft skills in this field. These skills enable professionals to effectively detect, prevent, and respond to biological threats, ensuring public safety and national security.

How to get a job in biodefense?

To pursue a career in biodefense, candidates typically need a background in biological sciences, public health, or related fields, along with relevant experience or research in biodefense or biosecurity. Earning advanced degrees, such as a master's or Ph.D., and obtaining certifications like the Certified Biological Safety Professional can enhance prospects. Job opportunities are often found in government agencies, research institutions, and defense organizations, with security clearances sometimes required.

What can you do with a biodefense degree?

A biodefense degree prepares individuals for roles in government agencies, research institutions, and private companies focused on biosecurity, disease prevention, and response to biological threats. Graduates often work as biodefense analysts, public health officials, or laboratory scientists, utilizing skills in microbiology, epidemiology, and risk assessment. Certifications and security clearances may be required for certain positions.

What is the future of biodefense?

The future of biodefense involves increased focus on emerging infectious diseases, biothreat detection, and rapid response capabilities. Professionals in biodefense will likely need expertise in microbiology, epidemiology, and the use of advanced technologies such as biosensors and data analysis tools to enhance national security and public health preparedness.

What are popular job titles related to Biodefense jobs in Reston, VA?

For Biodefense jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Biodefense jobs in Reston, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Biodefense jobs in Reston, VA are:

What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Biodefense jobs?

Cities near Reston, VA with the most Biodefense job openings:

Biodefense jobs near you
Infographic showing various Biodefense job openings in Reston, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $95,349 per year, or $45.8 per hour.

DAF Counter WMD Policy Analyst

Apogee Engineering, LLC

Arlington, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

Overview
Apogee has an exciting new opportunity for a DAF Counter WMD Policy Analyst to support the Headquarters United States Air Force (HAF/A10). In this role, you will provide expert analytical, programmatic, and staff process support for AF/A10's CWMD and Biodefense policy responsibilities. This requires analyzing national strategy, managing daily staff actions, reviewing joint programs, and providing logistical support for key events to ensure Air Force positions are effectively developed and represented. You will also provide expert analytical and administrative support for the multitiered Air Force CWMD governance structure, including the CWMD Council, CWM Integration Group (CIG), and the Policy Working Group (PWG). Responsibilities to improve DAF CWMD and biodefense interoperability and knowledge sharing across the Air Force, sister Services, Joint, interagency, and academic communities.
The HAF/A10 contract delivers technical, analytical, operational, programmatic, and planning subject-matter expertise to HAF/A10 and its component divisions to advance national security strategic plans, policies, concepts, and initiatives.
This is a full-time, on-site position located at the Pentagon in Arlington, VA.
***This position is contingent upon contract award.***
Responsibilities
  • Manage CWMD Staff Actions and Taskings. Analyze, research, draft, coordinate, and route all daily CWMD requirements and taskings from internal and external organizations (e.g., OSD, JS, HAF).
  • Draft staff packages (e.g., SSSs, point papers, white papers, briefings) prepared in the proper AF format.
  • Coordinate responses to official Requests for Information (RFIs).
  • Complete Comment Resolution Matrixes (CRMs) for document reviews.
  • Support CWMD/Biodefense Policy and Program Analysis. Review and analyze DoD, Joint, and Air Force programs, strategic documents (e.g., NPR, NDS), and policy directives to determine impacts and equities for the CWMD and Biodefense enterprises.
  • Form analysis reports on guidance and strategy documents.
  • Provide recommendations for DAF positions in requirements development forums.
  • Provide analysis of intelligence reports with options to address readiness challenges.
  • Coordinate with Joint, CCMD, MAJCOM, Center, and other CWMD/CBRN staff as needed to support DAF policy, readiness, exercise, planning and other tasks.
  • Provide CBRN Survivability Program Support. Conduct research and analysis and provide program management support for the DoD CBRN Survivability Program in accordance with DoDI 3150.09.
  • Provide draft inputs for the annual CBRN Survivability Report delivered via the designated data system.
  • Provide Forum and Event Logistical Support. Provide comprehensive SME, logistical, administrative, and security support for all AF/A10-sponsored CWMD, CBRND and Biodefense forums, meetings, working groups, and conferences.
  • Provide/review/staff all event materials (agendas, minutes, read-aheads, rosters, talking points, briefings).
  • Plan & coordinate successful technical exchanges, working groups and conferences, including facility, security, and AV/IT coordination.
  • Provide Pre-Forum Analytical and Administrative Support. Coordinate and consolidate agenda topics, develop support materials, and prepare senior leaders for effective participation in all designated governance forums.
  • Produce Senior Leader Support Packages, including draft read-aheads, agendas, and briefing materials.
  • Support Forum Execution and Documentation. Provide logistical and administrative support during forum execution to capture a comprehensive record of all discussions, decisions, and assigned tasks.
  • Produce draft meeting minutes for government review and formal distribution.
  • Manage Post-Forum Follow-Up Actions. Monitor, document, and report on the progress of all action items assigned during governance forums to ensure their timely completion.
  • Provide a current Action Item Tracker detailing the status, responsible office, and closure of all assigned tasks.
  • Review and analyze high-level strategic documents (e.g., Defense Planning Guidance, Global Campaign Plans, OPLANs) to ensure DAF CWMD and Biodefense equities, threats, and objectives are fully integrated.
  • Analyze DAF operational needs to provide formal recommendations for CWMD, CBRND, and Biodefense requirements. Prepare analytical products and draft inputs to support government representation and advocacy in Joint, Service, and interagency acquisition and planning forums.
  • Conduct studies and analysis to identify and analyze CWMD and Biodefense operational readiness and planning gaps, informed by capabilities documents and best practices from allied, joint, and interagency partners.
  • Prepare analytical materials and briefings to support DAF engagement with DoD, non-DoD institutions, other Services, and foreign partners.
  • Identify and Support Forum Participation. Identify opportunities for DAF personnel to attend relevant CWMD and Biodefense discussions, conferences, workshops, and seminars hosted by educational and policy institutions (e.g., Air University, National Defense University.
  • Provide analytical and logistical support for government attendance.
  • Curate a list of recommended engagement opportunities.
  • Provide Forum Representation and Analysis. As directed, attend and participate in designated CWMD and Biodefense forums to represent Air Force equities. Analyze all exchanged information, concepts, and requirements.
  • Produce post-Forum Analysis Reports detailing findings, impacts on DAF/A10 strategy, and recommended courses of action for government consideration.
  • Develop Analytical and Decision Products. Based on forum outcomes, produce comprehensive analytical products to inform AF/A10 leadership.
  • Produce information, point, white, and decision papers discussing forum results, progress, and recommended AF positions

Qualifications
Minimum Experience:
Citizenship: Must be a US citizen
Clearance: Must have an active Top Secret security clearance with SCI eligibility and be able to maintain it
Education: Bachelor's degree
Years of Experience: Ten (10) years of experience in the respective technical/professional discipline; to include five (5) years of DoD experience
Preferred Qualifications:
Clearance: TS/SCI
Education: Master's degree
Years of Experience: Eight (8) years of experience in the respective technical/professional discipline; to include five (5) years of DoD experience
Additional Information:
Location: Located at the Pentagon in Arlington, VA
On-site: This is a full-time on-site position
***This position is contingent upon contract award.***

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