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Biodefense Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... 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 ...

Bio-Deterrence SME

Honolulu, HI ยท On-site

$112.80 - $257/hr

Bio-Deterrence SME As an expert in biodefense and operational readiness, you will anticipate and respond to emerging biological threats, develop solutions that protect the nation and keep our ...

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Biodefense information

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$25

$44

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How much do biodefense jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for biodefense in the United States is $44.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33.65 and $51.44 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.
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Cities with the most Biodefense job openings:

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What states have the most Biodefense jobs?

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Infographic showing various Biodefense job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, and 4% Part Time. Highlights an 92% In-person, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $91,650 per year, or $44.1 per hour.

CWMD Policy Analyst

Systems Planning and Analysis

Arlington, VA โ€ข On-site

$130K - $180K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

Overview

Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc. (SPA) delivers high-impact, technical solutions to complex national security issues. With over 50 years of business expertise and consistent growth,ย we are known for continuous innovation for our government customers, in both the US and abroad. Our exceptionally talented team is highly collaborative in spirit and practice, producing Results that Matter. Come work with the best! We offer opportunity, unique challenges, and clear-sighted commitment to the mission. SPA: Objective. Responsive. Trusted.ย ย 

The SLA Analysis Group's mission is to deliver objective analyses, plans and strategies to US Navy, US Marine Corps, USAF, other DoD, and Australian Defence Force clients to support technology development, acquisition, delivery and sustainment decisions. The group provides the core of SPA thought leadership on Undersea Strategy, Software Development and Cost Estimating, with additional benchmark capabilities in AI/ML & Decision Analytics, Modeling and Simulation, and Future Force Assessments.

SPA has a need for CWMD Plans and Policy Analysts in the NCR and multiple MAJCOM locations to analyze, develop, and integrate CWMD and biodefense strategies, plans, and policies across the Department of the Air Force. These roles bridge highlevel guidance with practical implementation in plans, operations, and capabilities.

Responsibilities

CWMD Plans and Policy Analysts review and assess strategic guidance, campaign plans, OPLANs, and other planning documents to ensure CWMD and biodefense equities and requirements are fully addressed. They identify gaps, risks, and opportunities and provide formal recommendations to update plans, doctrine, and guidance. They produce analytic reports, point papers, and briefings that explain CWMD implications for force development, readiness, and mission assurance. They also support stakeholder engagements with Joint, interagency, and allied partners by preparing and, when directed, delivering CWMD planning and policy materials.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in international relations, strategic studies, operations research, or a related discipline
  • 8+ years of experience in CWMD, CBRN defense, or biodefense planning and policy at the Service, Joint, or interagency level
  • Strong understanding of how CWMD concepts are integrated into operational plans, doctrine, and requirements
  • Active TS/SCI clearance and the ability to maintain it throughout employment

Desired Qualifications:

  • Experience conducting DOTMLPFP gap analyses or similar capability assessments in CWMD or CBRN defense
  • Experience representing Service or MAJCOM positions in Joint or interagency planning and policy forums
Pay Range InformationAt SPA, we strive to deliver a robust total compensation package that will attract and retain top talent. Elements of the compensation package include competitive base pay and variable compensation opportunities. SPA provides eligible employees with an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs, generally including health insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance programs, and a number of programs that provide for both paid and unpaid time away from work. The specific programs and options available to any given employee may vary depending on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, etc. Please note that the salary information shown below is a general guideline only. Salaries are commensurate with experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations. Virginia, Pay Transparency Salary range: USD $130,000.00/Yr. - USD $180,000.00/Yr.Employment Type: FULL_TIME