Advance Your Career: Administrative Officer at the USDA
Are you an experienced administrative professional looking to make a significant impact on national agricultural health? The Department of Agriculture (USDA), specifically the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), is currently seeking an Administrative Officer to join their team in Ames, Iowa. This high-level position offers the chance to lead critical operations and provide strategic guidance to agency executives.
Job Responsibilities
The Administrative Officer serves as a vital link in the Office of the Associate Deputy Administrator. Core responsibilities include:
- Financial Oversight: Managing complex budgets and ensuring fiscal accountability.
- Strategic Advisory: Providing guidance to directors on administrative policies.
- Resource Management: Coordinating property, fleet, and travel operations.
- Personnel Leadership: Overseeing recruitment, appraisal, and development of staff.
Requirements
This position requires specific federal experience. Applicants must be current federal employees with 52 weeks of service at the GS-13 level. You must demonstrate specialized experience in budget execution and policy implementation.
Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary | $126,797 - $164,841 |
| Location | Ames, Iowa |
| Grade Level | GS-14 |
| Clearance | High Risk |
Salary and Benefits
Employees are compensated at the GS-14 level, reflecting the high responsibility of the role. Beyond salary, the federal government provides a robust suite of benefits, including health insurance, retirement planning, and generous leave policies.
Application Tips
- Keep it Brief: Your resume must be two pages or less.
- Be Detailed: Ensure all work history includes dates and specific duties.
- Assessment Readiness: Prepare for the USA Hire assessment; this is a mandatory step that determines your candidacy.
This role is an excellent opportunity for a seasoned professional to elevate their career within a mission-driven federal agency. If you meet the qualifications, we encourage you to apply by the closing date to join the USDA team in Ames.
Why This Administrative Officer Job Matters
Take your leadership career to the next level by driving critical administrative operations for the USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service.
Administrative Officer Job Overview
The USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) is seeking a highly skilled Administrative Officer to join the Office of the Associate Deputy Administrator for Diagnostics & Biologics in Ames, Iowa. This high-impact role serves as a key advisor to leadership, overseeing vital administrative, budgetary, and personnel functions that support the agency's mission to protect U.S. agricultural health.
Requirements for Administrative Officer
- Must be a current federal employee with 52 weeks of service at the GS-13 level or equivalent.
- One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-13 grade level.
- Must pass a high-risk security and suitability background check.
- Must submit a resume not exceeding two pages.
- Must complete the mandatory USA Hire online assessment within 48 hours of the announcement closing.
- Must successfully complete a one-year probationary period.
Preferred Qualifications for Administrative Officer
- Demonstrated expertise in formulating, justifying, and executing budgets for programs with national scope.
- Proven ability to provide expert guidance on administrative regulations and policies.
- Experience directing management studies and analyzing program effectiveness.
- Strong proficiency in supervising, mentoring, and fostering an inclusive workplace environment.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary package
- ✓Opportunities for professional development
- ✓Comprehensive health and life insurance options
- ✓Federal retirement benefits
- ✓Paid time off and federal holidays
- ✓Eligible for telework programs
💡 How to Apply Administrative Officer Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Administrative Officer Job
- Create or update your USAJOBS account profile.
- Prepare a concise, two-page resume highlighting your relevant experience.
- Submit your application through the official portal before the closing date.
- Monitor your email for a notification containing your unique USA Hire assessment link.
- Complete the required competency-based assessments within the designated window.
- Upload all required supporting documentation, including SF-50 forms and performance appraisals.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume explicitly details your experience, including hours worked per week and specific dates of employment.
- Do not exceed the two-page resume limit, as extra pages will result in immediate disqualification.
- Verify that your SF-50 forms clearly reflect your highest permanent grade held.
- Take advantage of the practice assessments available on the USA Hire Resource Center before attempting your formal evaluation.
- Use the 'Application Status' feature in USAJOBS to track progress and view agency notifications.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the salary range for this position?
The annual salary for this position ranges from $126,797 to $164,841.
Is education a substitute for the experience requirements?
No, for this GS-14 position, there is no education substitution for the required specialized experience.
Can I work remotely?
The position is telework eligible, but it is not a remote-only position. The incumbent is expected to be based in Ames, Iowa.
Job from Animal And Plant Health Inspection Service
The USDA Marketing and Regulatory Programs division works tirelessly to facilitate domestic and international trade of agricultural products while protecting the health of our nation's plants and animals. As part of APHIS, you will be supporting an organization that values integrity, accountability, and the protection of American resources.