Launch Your Career in Agriculture: County Program Analyst

Are you looking for a career that combines analytical rigor with a mission to support the American agricultural community? The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) is currently hiring for a County Program Analyst position in Smithville, Tennessee. This role is a vital part of the county office team, ensuring that producers have access to the programs and support they need to maintain a thriving agricultural sector.

Key Responsibilities

As a County Program Analyst, your daily work will revolve around the successful administration of local office operations. You will:

Explain Program Regulations: Serve as a subject matter expert, interpreting complex policies and procedures for producers and agency staff.
Maintain Data Systems: Utilize web-based applications to manage producer information and process automated forms efficiently.
Problem Solve: Use your judgment to address operational challenges and improve the effectiveness of local programs.
Facilitate Operations: Execute day-to-day office functions that support the timely delivery of agency services.

Requirements

To qualify for this position, applicants must demonstrate a blend of education and relevant work experience. Below is a comparison of entry requirements based on the grade level:

Grade Level	Education Requirement	Experience Requirement
CO-05	Bachelor's degree or 4 years post-secondary	1 year general experience
CO-07	1 year graduate study or Superior Academic Achievement	1 year specialized experience
CO-09	Master's degree or 2 years graduate study	1 year specialized experience

Salary Overview

The position offers a competitive salary range of $40,736 to $80,243 per year, commensurate with experience and education level. This salary is part of a broader total compensation package that includes job security and growth potential within the agency.

Benefits

Working for the FSA provides employees with a comprehensive benefits suite designed for long-term health and financial stability, including:

Paid Time Off: Generous vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
Insurance: Access to comprehensive health, dental, vision, and life insurance plans.
Future Planning: Retirement and supplemental savings plans.
Work-Life Balance: Flexible scheduling options.

Application Tips

Applying for a federal-style position requires attention to detail. Follow these steps for success:

Read the Announcement: Ensure you meet all eligibility criteria before applying.
Tailor Your Resume: Explicitly mention your work schedule (hours per week) and clearly document your professional milestones. Keep it under two pages.
Check Your Files: Ensure all uploaded documents (transcripts, SF-50s) are in the accepted formats and less than 5MB.
Stay Engaged: Regularly check your USAJOBS account status after submission.

Joining the USDA as a County Program Analyst is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the vital industry that feeds the nation. If you have the analytical mindset and the desire to serve your community, we encourage you to apply by September 8, 2026.

Why This County Program Analyst Job Matters

Launch a meaningful career in public service by helping local farmers succeed as a County Program Analyst with the Farm Service Agency in Tennessee.

County Program Analyst Job Overview

The USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) is seeking a motivated professional to join the DeKalb County office in Smithville, Tennessee. In this role, you will serve as a vital link between the agency and the agricultural community, ensuring that critical federal programs are administered effectively. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the stability and growth of the American agricultural sector while enjoying a supportive work-life balance and a comprehensive federal-style benefits package.

Requirements for County Program Analyst

Possession of a bachelor's degree or four years of post-high school education in a relevant field.
At least one year of general work experience supporting projects, programs, or agricultural operations.
Demonstrated ability to analyze problems, interpret complex regulations, and communicate effectively.
Ability to utilize web-based software for data maintenance and report processing.
Must be a U.S. citizen.
Submission of a resume not exceeding two pages.

Preferred Qualifications for County Program Analyst

One year of specialized experience equivalent to the CO-5 or GS-5 level for entry at the CO-7 grade.
Master's degree or two full years of progressively higher-level graduate education for entry at the CO-9 grade.
Superior Academic Achievement (GPA of 3.0 or higher) for eligible applicants.
Experience in agricultural program policies, document examination, and analytical evaluation.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Paid vacation and sick leave
✓Paid federal holidays
✓Comprehensive health, dental, vision, and life insurance plans
✓Retirement and supplemental savings plans
✓Flexible spending accounts
✓Long-term care insurance
✓Flexible work schedules

💡 How to Apply County Program Analyst Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for County Program Analyst Job

Review the full vacancy announcement details.
Prepare a resume that does not exceed two pages, detailing your work history, dates, and duties.
Gather your college transcripts if you are qualifying based on education.
Log in to USAJOBS and follow the prompts to complete the online Assessment Questionnaire.
Upload all necessary documents in a compatible format (PDF, DOC, TXT, etc.).
Submit your complete application package before the deadline on September 8, 2026.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume explicitly maps your experience to the job duties listed in the announcement.
Save a copy of your completed application and a list of uploaded documents for your personal records.
Contact the agency representative well before the closing date if you require a reasonable accommodation or face a technical hardship.
Double-check that all uploaded documents are under 5MB and not in an Adobe Portfolio format.
Turn on email notifications in your USAJOBS profile to receive critical updates about your application status.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a federal civil service position?

No, this is a Title 7, Non-Federal, Non-Civil Service position within the Farm Service Agency.

Can I submit a resume longer than two pages?

No, per the job requirements, the resume must not exceed two pages.

What happens if I don't have my official transcript ready?

You may submit an unofficial transcript during the initial application phase. If you are selected, you will be required to provide an official transcript before entering on duty.

How do I know if I qualify for the CO-09 level?

*A: You must typically possess a Master's degree or two years of graduate study, or have specialized experience equivalent to a GS-7 position.*

What documents are required for my application?

*A: You must submit a resume. Transcripts are required if you are qualifying through education. Current or former federal employees should also include their most recent SF-50.*

Job from Farm Service Agency

The Farm Service Agency (FSA) is a dynamic organization that serves farmers, ranchers, and agricultural partners across the United States. By implementing essential programs that provide financial assistance, disaster relief, and conservation support, the FSA remains the backbone of rural economic stability. Working with the FSA means joining a team dedicated to service, integrity, and the future of American food production.