Lead the Future of American Agriculture: Associate Deputy Administrator for Farm Programs
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) is looking for a dynamic executive to serve as the Associate Deputy Administrator for Farm Programs. This is a critical leadership role within the Senior Executive Service (SES), designed for individuals who possess a strong commitment to public service, the rule of law, and the advancement of agricultural production in the United States. If you are an experienced leader with a deep understanding of federal farm policy, this could be the next step in your career.
Job Responsibilities
The Associate Deputy Administrator oversees complex national programs and policies. Key responsibilities include:
- Policy Formulation: Collaborating with the Deputy Administrator to develop and implement FSA and Commodity Credit Corporation (CCC) policies.
- Operational Oversight: Directing the preparation of rules, notices, and operational procedures to ensure efficient program delivery.
- Strategic Development: Reviewing and recommending modifications to existing legislation to improve agency effectiveness.
- Organizational Leadership: Fostering a culture of accountability, excellence, and innovation.
Requirements
This position requires a high level of expertise. Applicants must:
- Provide a resume not exceeding 2 pages.
- Demonstrate Executive Core Qualifications (ECQs) regarding leadership, results, and integrity.
- Demonstrate Technical Qualifications (TQs) focused on federal farm program expertise.
- Possess a Secret level security clearance.
- Comply with the Financial Disclosure requirements for senior federal employees.
Comparison of Applicant Requirements
| Requirement Type | Focus Area | Submission Format |
|---|---|---|
| Executive Core Qualifications | Leadership & Strategy | Embedded in 2-page Resume |
| Technical Qualifications | Agriculture/Policy Expertise | Embedded in 2-page Resume |
| Supporting Docs | SF-50/Transcripts | PDF Upload |
Salary Overview
This position is classified as a Level 2 SES role. The annual salary range is $204,122 to $216,010. SES employees are also eligible for performance-based bonuses and awards, reflecting the high responsibility and impact of the position.
Benefits
- Comprehensive federal benefits package.
- Opportunities for professional growth in a premier federal agency.
- Engagement in high-level policy and strategy that impacts millions of Americans.
Application Tips
- Focus on Quality: Ensure your resume clearly articulates how your past achievements meet the ECQs and TQs.
- Formatting: Strict adherence to the 2-page limit is mandatory. Applications exceeding this length will not be fully reviewed.
- Clarity: Avoid jargon and clearly spell out all acronyms.
Serving as the Associate Deputy Administrator for Farm Programs is a significant career move that places you at the heart of American agricultural policy. If you meet the qualifications and are eager to drive government efficiency, we encourage you to apply.
Why This Associate Deputy Administrator For Farm Programs Job Matters
Shape the future of American agriculture at the executive level. The USDA is seeking a visionary leader to serve as Associate Deputy Administrator for Farm Programs.
Associate Deputy Administrator For Farm Programs Job Overview
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is inviting applications for the position of Associate Deputy Administrator for Farm Programs. This Career-Reserved Senior Executive Service (SES) role is central to the mission of the Farm Service Agency (FSA), overseeing large-scale national agricultural policy and programs. The selected leader will collaborate directly with the Deputy Administrator to drive program efficiency, ensure adherence to federal regulations, and uphold the integrity of the Commodity Credit Corporation (CCC) authorities. This position offers a unique opportunity to lead organizational change and manage critical resources within a high-stakes federal environment.
Requirements for Associate Deputy Administrator For Farm Programs
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Must demonstrate Executive Core Qualifications (ECQs) within a maximum 2-page resume.
- Must demonstrate Technical Qualifications (TQs) within a maximum 2-page resume.
- Must possess expert knowledge of federal farm programs, agricultural policy, and Commodity Credit Corporation authorities.
- Must hold a Secret security clearance.
- Must undergo a pre-employment drug test.
- Must file an Executive Personnel Financial Disclosure Report (SF-278).
- Male applicants born after 1959 must be registered with the Selective Service System.
Preferred Qualifications for Associate Deputy Administrator For Farm Programs
- Prior certification by an OPM-approved Qualifications Review Board (QRB).
- Current or former career SES status.
- Experience in leading high-performance, high-accountability organizational cultures.
- Proven track record in fiscal management and technological process upgrades.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive executive salary range
- ✓Performance-based bonuses and awards
- ✓Federal health and life insurance options
- ✓Federal retirement benefits
- ✓Meaningful work with national impact
💡 How to Apply Associate Deputy Administrator For Farm Programs Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Associate Deputy Administrator For Farm Programs Job
- Create or update your USAJOBS account.
- Draft a concise 2-page resume that explicitly integrates your ECQ and TQ accomplishments.
- Ensure your resume emphasizes leadership scope, program complexity, and specific results.
- Click 'Apply Online' on the official USAJobs listing.
- Complete the mandatory Occupational Questionnaire.
- Upload required documentation, including current or former SES status proofs if applicable.
- Submit your application package prior to the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Do not submit separate narrative documents for ECQs or TQs; they must be embedded in your 2-page resume.
- Stick strictly to the 2-page limit and 0.8-inch margins to avoid disqualification.
- Remove all Personally Identifiable Information (PII) such as SSN or DOB from your documents.
- Spell out all acronyms upon their first use.
- Verify that your uploaded documents successfully transferred to the agency staffing portal.
- Use real-world examples that highlight your direct impact on agency operations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the page limit for the resume?
The resume must not exceed 2 pages, using 11-point font and 0.8-inch margins.
Do I need to submit separate narratives for ECQs?
No. The application process is resume-only. You must address the ECQs and TQs directly within your 2-page resume.
What is the expected salary range?
The position is at SES level 2, with a salary range of $204,122 to $216,010 per year.
Job from Farm Service Agency
The Farm Service Agency (FSA) plays a vital role in the USDA’s mission. We support the production of agriculture, ensure a safe food supply, and provide economic opportunities for rural communities. As a leader in the FSA, you will contribute to initiatives that reduce hunger and expand global markets for agricultural products. The SES program is the cornerstone of government leadership, and we are looking for individuals who share our vision of a high-performance, accountable, and mission-driven organization.