Advance Your Career: Become a County Executive Director with the USDA
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) plays a pivotal role in the success of American farming. We are currently looking for dedicated professionals to step into the role of County Executive Director (CED) in Greenville and Lexington, Kentucky. This leadership position is perfect for current FSA employees looking to make a significant impact on local agricultural policy and operations.
Job Responsibilities
As a County Executive Director, you will act as the primary lead for your county office. Your duties include:
- Managing day-to-day administrative and programmatic operations.
- Executing USDA farm bill programs and policies.
- Providing essential support for farm loan programs.
- Directing the activities of a talented subordinate staff.
- Engaging in both office and field-based activities to ensure program objectives are met.
Requirements
Candidates must be current permanent FSA employees in Kentucky. Eligibility is determined by professional experience or academic standing as defined in Handbook 27-PM. Key requirements include:
- Specialized experience equivalent to the CO-5 through CO-11 levels.
- Proficiency in agricultural program analysis.
- Ability to interpret complex regulatory guidelines.
Qualification Comparison Table
| Education Level | Experience Requirement | Target Grade |
|---|---|---|
| Graduate Education | 1 Year Specialized | CO-07 |
| Master's Degree | 1 Year Experience | CO-09 |
| Bachelor's (Superior Academic Achievement) | N/A | CO-07 |
| Current Federal Experience | Varies | CO-11/12 |
Salary Overview
The salary range for this position is $50,460 to $116,362 per year, depending on qualifications and grade level upon selection.
Benefits
Working with the USDA comes with a suite of benefits designed to support your total well-being:
- Health, Vision, and Dental Insurance
- Retirement Savings Plans
- Generous Leave Policy
- Flexible Spending Accounts
Application Tips
- Be Detailed: Ensure your resume clearly lists the hours worked per week and specific dates for all job entries.
- Verify Documents: Check that your transcript clearly shows course titles and credits.
- Start Early: Technical issues can occur; do not wait until the final hours on the closing date to apply.
This is a unique opportunity to lead agricultural initiatives in Kentucky. If you have the experience and the passion for public service, apply today to help us continue supporting our nation's farmers.
Why This County Executive Director Expanded Job Matters
Advance your career in agricultural leadership with the USDA Farm Service Agency. Lead essential county programs and drive the future of local farming operations in Kentucky.
County Executive Director Expanded Job Overview
The USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) is seeking a motivated County Executive Director (CED) for locations in Greenville and Lexington, Kentucky. This leadership role involves managing comprehensive agricultural programs, overseeing administrative operations, and providing critical support to the local farming community. Successful candidates will manage staff, implement Farm Bill policies, and ensure the efficient delivery of USDA services.
Requirements for County Executive Director Expanded
- Must be a current permanent FSA employee in Kentucky.
- Completion of specialized experience or educational requirements per Handbook 27-PM.
- Ability to analyze agricultural program requirements and provide technical recommendations.
- Knowledge of supervisory practices for managing office and field operations.
- Submission of unofficial transcripts if qualifying based on education.
- Completion of the CEDT training program if not previously certified.
Preferred Qualifications for County Executive Director Expanded
- Prior experience in agricultural program management or loan administration.
- Proven track record in staff supervision and performance management.
- Experience in data analysis and evaluative techniques within a federal or agricultural context.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Federal Salary
- ✓Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
- ✓Paid vacation and sick leave
- ✓Retirement and supplemental savings plans
- ✓Flexible work schedules
- ✓Life insurance options
- ✓Flexible spending accounts
💡 How to Apply County Executive Director Expanded Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for County Executive Director Expanded Job
- Review the full announcement and Handbook 27-PM requirements.
- Prepare a resume not exceeding two pages, detailing your experience and specific dates.
- Log into the application portal to complete the assessment questionnaire.
- Upload unofficial transcripts and any optional supporting documents like your most recent SF-50.
- Submit your electronic application before the closing date of September 9, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume includes your title, series, and grade for all federal or FSA positions.
- Verify that your uploaded documents have transferred correctly into the agency staffing system.
- Double-check that your resume explicitly supports the answers provided in the assessment questionnaire to avoid being flagged for inflation.
- Save a copy of your submitted application and the list of uploaded documents for your personal records.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible to apply for this position?
This position is currently open to current permanent FSA employees in Kentucky.
What happens if I need an accommodation to apply?
The agency provides reasonable accommodation on a case-by-case basis; please contact the agency representative provided in the announcement.
Is relocation assistance offered?
No, relocation expenses are not authorized for this position.
Are veterans' preferences applied?
Veterans' preference does not apply to this specific Title 7 appointment.
Can I apply if I don't have a transcript?
If you are using education to qualify, you must submit transcripts at the time of application.
Job from Farm Service Agency
The Farm Service Agency serves as the heartbeat of the agricultural community. By implementing Farm Bill programs and managing loan services, we ensure that farmers have the resources they need to thrive. Joining the FSA means becoming part of a supportive, diverse team that values work-life balance and career development.