Launch Your Career as an Economist with the USDA Foreign Agricultural Service

Are you an analytical thinker with a passion for global economics? The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) is currently seeking talented Economists to help shape the future of U.S. agricultural trade. This is a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of international policy and economic analysis, contributing to missions that impact food security, market growth, and competitive strategy on a global stage.

Job Responsibilities

Economists at the FAS engage in high-level research and data analysis. Your responsibilities will include:

Market Analysis: Conducting in-depth research to identify and maintain market opportunities for U.S. producers.
Policy Formulation: Analyzing economic data to develop recommendations for U.S. agricultural trade policies.
Reporting: Creating clear, interpretive reports on agricultural market conditions for stakeholders and policymakers.
Negotiation Support: Participating in team projects and international negotiations to represent U.S. interests.
Collaboration: Working closely with domestic and foreign trade associations.

Requirements

To be considered for this role, you must meet specific federal qualifications:

Educational Background: A degree in economics including at least 21 semester hours of economics and 3 semester hours of statistics, accounting, or calculus.
Specialized Experience: Candidates must demonstrate one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level, involving research, data analysis, and report preparation.
Security and Fitness: Candidates must be able to obtain a Secret security clearance and will be subject to pre-employment drug testing.

Salary Overview

This position offers a competitive compensation package commensurate with the GS grade level, ranging from $70,623 to $133,142 per year.

Grade Level	Experience/Education Equivalent
GS-09	1 year experience or Master's degree
GS-11	1 year experience or Ph.D. level
GS-12	1 year experience (Professional focus)

Benefits

Working for the USDA provides access to a robust benefits package, including:

Health Insurance: Premium federal health, dental, and vision plans.
Financial Security: Participation in the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching.
Work-Life Balance: Comprehensive leave programs and federal holiday schedules.
Professional Growth: Consistent opportunities for training and career advancement.

Application Tips

Focus on Clarity: Ensure your resume clearly maps your experience to the duties described in the job announcement.
Respect the Limits: Your resume must not exceed two pages; applications exceeding this will be disqualified.
Stay Responsive: Keep your notification settings active and be prepared to complete the USA Hire assessments within 48 hours of notification.
Proofread: Double-check that all uploaded documents (SF-50, transcripts) are clear and legible.

The role of an Economist at the FAS is demanding but incredibly rewarding. You will be at the forefront of international trade, helping to secure the competitive future of U.S. agriculture. If you are prepared to bring your quantitative skills to a mission-critical role, we encourage you to review the requirements and submit your application package before the closing date.

Why This Economist Job Matters

Shape the future of global agriculture—join the Foreign Agricultural Service as an Economist and bridge the gap between U.S. producers and international markets.

Economist Job Overview

The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) is seeking skilled Economists to join our team in Washington, D.C. or Beltsville, MD. As an Economist, you will play a vital role in analyzing trade data, formulating policies that enhance the competitive position of U.S. agriculture, and providing essential technical assistance to foreign partners. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to global trade stability and U.S. market growth while working within a collaborative, mission-driven environment.

Requirements for Economist

Must be a U.S. citizen.
Meet specific educational requirements: Degree in economics (including 21 semester hours in economics and 3 semester hours in statistics, accounting, or calculus) or a combination of education and experience.
One year of specialized experience at the next lower grade level (or equivalent graduate education for GS-09/GS-11 levels).
Current federal employees must meet time-in-grade (TIG) requirements of 52 weeks of service.
Must successfully complete a probationary period.
Must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
Subject to a mandatory drug testing requirement.
Submit all required transcripts and supporting documentation by the closing date.

Preferred Qualifications for Economist

Advanced proficiency in econometric modeling and statistical software.
Proven track record in analyzing international trade trends and agricultural market conditions.
Experience contributing to policy briefing materials and technical reports.
Ability to communicate complex economic information to diverse stakeholders effectively.
Collaborative experience in interdisciplinary and international team environments.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive federal health insurance programs.
✓Retirement savings via the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
✓Generous paid annual and sick leave accrual.
✓Opportunities for professional development and training.
✓Federal life insurance coverage.
✓Flexible work-life balance initiatives.

💡 How to Apply Economist Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Economist Job

Prepare your resume (maximum 2 pages) and gather required documents (transcripts, SF-50s, etc.).
Click the official application link and sign in to your USAJOBS account.
Complete the online questionnaire and attach all necessary documentation.
Submit your application package before 11:59 PM ET on the closing date.
Monitor your email for a unique link to the USA Hire Competency Based Assessments.
Complete all required assessments within 48 hours of notification.

💡 General Tips

Keep your resume concise and strictly adhere to the two-page limit.
Clearly explain how your work experience directly relates to the major duties outlined.
Ensure all uploaded documents are legible and not encrypted.
Practice using the resources provided in the USA Hire Applicant Resource Center.
Turn on email notifications in your USAJOBS profile to receive critical deadline reminders.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I substitute education for experience?

Yes, depending on the grade level. For GS-09 and GS-11, specific graduate degrees or combinations of education and experience may qualify you. There is no education substitution for the GS-12 level.

What happens if I fail the assessment window?

Assessments must be completed within 48 hours of receipt. Failure to complete these within the timeframe will result in the loss of your application consideration.

Is telework available?

This position is not marked as telework-eligible. Candidates should be prepared to work on-site.

What is the Foreign Service eligibility?

*A: Previous members of the Foreign Service may qualify under specific provisions related to the Foreign Service Act of 1980.*

Can I use volunteer experience?

*A: Yes, qualified volunteer work (Peace Corps, AmeriCorps, etc.) is credited toward your experience.*

Job from Foreign Agricultural Service

The Foreign Agricultural Service acts as the eyes and ears of U.S. agriculture around the world. With a presence in over 70 countries, the FAS works to improve market access for American products, provides technical assistance, and conducts vital research to ensure U.S. agriculture remains competitive in the international marketplace. As an Economist within this agency, your work directly informs how the United States interacts with global partners, making this an ideal role for professionals looking to make a meaningful impact.