Launch Your Career as an Agricultural Economist with the USDA

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) is looking for talented, analytical professionals to support the Risk Management Agency (RMA). If you are an economist with a passion for agriculture and a desire to contribute to national food security, this role offers a unique opportunity to shape the market-based tools that keep American farmers resilient.

Job Responsibilities

As an Agricultural Economist, you will:

Analyze supply and demand trends to create accurate price projections for crops.
Collaborate with universities, research groups, and commodity stakeholders.
Manage and interpret large-scale economic datasets.
Draft comprehensive research reports that inform policy and actuarial decisions.
Serve as a technical spokesperson for the agency during high-level meetings.

Requirements

To be considered for this position, candidates must meet the following criteria:

Education: A degree in economics including 21 hours of economics and 3 hours of statistics, accounting, or calculus.
Citizenship: You must be a U.S. Citizen.
Experience: Professional economic research experience or a Master's degree in a relevant field.

Comparison: Candidate Profile

Qualification	Essential Requirement	Desired Strength
Degree	Economics (21+ hrs)	Graduate degree (MA/MS)
Experience	Data Analysis	Specialized Ag-Economic Work
Skills	Mathematical Reasoning	Technical Communication

Salary Overview

This position is structured at the GS-09 grade level with a starting salary range of $52,727 to $68,549 per year. Locality pay may apply depending on your final duty station.

Benefits

Working for the federal government provides a comprehensive compensation package that includes robust health insurance options, federal retirement plans, generous leave accrual, and opportunities for long-term career growth.

Application Tips

Strict Compliance: Your resume MUST NOT exceed two pages.
Accuracy: Ensure your transcripts match the educational requirements exactly.
Assessments: Set aside 1-2 hours for the USA Hire Assessments after submitting your application.

This role is an excellent entry point for economists aiming to make a lasting impact on American agriculture. If you meet the qualifications and are ready to tackle complex economic challenges, apply before the August deadline.

Why This Agricultural Economist Job Matters

Shape the future of agricultural stability and risk management as an Agricultural Economist with the USDA's Risk Management Agency.

Agricultural Economist Job Overview

The USDA Risk Management Agency (RMA) is seeking a detail-oriented Agricultural Economist to join the Prices Branch within the Actuarial and Product Design Division. This pivotal role involves conducting sophisticated economic research, analyzing complex agricultural datasets, and supporting the development of price elections for federal crop insurance programs. The selected candidate will provide critical expertise to ensure the actuarial integrity and equity of risk management solutions that protect American producers and rural communities.

Requirements for Agricultural Economist

Must be a U.S. Citizen or U.S. National.
Males born after 12/31/1959 must be registered for the Selective Service.
Must pass a background investigation and fingerprint check.
Must complete a 1-year probationary period.
Ability to pass an E-Verify employment verification check.
Degree in economics including at least 21 semester hours in economics and 3 semester hours in statistics, accounting, or calculus.
Must maintain direct deposit for federal payments.

Preferred Qualifications for Agricultural Economist

Master’s or equivalent graduate degree in economics or a closely related field.
Demonstrated experience conducting agricultural economic research or surveys.
Ability to manage and analyze large, complex databases.
Experience developing price projection methodologies.
Proficiency in drafting technical economic reports for senior management.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Health and Life Insurance programs
✓Federal retirement benefits
✓Paid federal holidays and leave
✓Potential for telework and flexible scheduling
✓Opportunities for professional development and career progression

💡 How to Apply Agricultural Economist Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Agricultural Economist Job

Review the full vacancy announcement carefully.
Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less.
Complete the required online questionnaires and USA Hire Assessments.
Submit all necessary supporting documentation, including transcripts.
Monitor your email for notifications regarding assessment links and status updates.
Finalize and submit your application package by the closing date.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume specifically addresses the major duties listed in the announcement.
Verify that your uploaded documents are under 5MB and in accepted formats.
Do not wait until the final hours to apply to avoid technical system congestion.
Use the USA Hire Applicant Resource Center to practice before taking your assessments.
Double-check that transcripts clearly show course names, credits, and grades.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the education requirement for this position?

You must have a degree in economics, including at least 21 semester hours in economics and 3 semester hours in statistics, accounting, or calculus, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Is telework available?

Yes, this position is eligible for telework as determined by agency policy.

Are there strict page limits for the resume?

Yes, your resume must not exceed two pages; applicants exceeding this limit will be removed from consideration.

Job from Risk Management Agency

The Risk Management Agency (RMA) plays a vital role in stabilizing the agricultural sector. By providing effective risk management products, the RMA empowers producers to withstand market volatility and natural disasters. Working within the Prices Branch, you will be part of a team dedicated to excellence in actuarial science and economic research.