Advance Your Career as an Administrative Officer with the USDA

Are you looking for a role that combines high-level administrative strategy with a meaningful, life-saving mission? The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is currently seeking a highly skilled Administrative Officer to join the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS). This is a unique opportunity to contribute to the agency's efforts in managing the New World Screwworm (NWS) outbreak response.

Job Responsibilities

In this GS-13 position, you will serve as a key consultant to leadership. Your primary responsibilities include:

Strategic Resource Management: Directing the allocation of administrative resources to ensure mission-critical outcomes.
Data Analysis: Evaluating work measurements to optimize efficiency and address resource gaps.
Leadership Consultation: Providing guidance on personnel management and organizational policy.
Reporting: Managing the preparation of complex financial and analytical reports for the NWS Directorate.

Requirements

To be considered for this role, applicants must meet several rigorous standards:

Experience: One year of specialized experience at the GS-12 level or equivalent.
Time-in-Grade: Current federal employees must have 52 weeks of service at the next lower grade.
Assessments: Completion of the USA Hire competency-based assessments within the 48-hour window post-closing.
Documentation: A resume that strictly does not exceed two pages.

Qualifications Comparison Table

Feature	Requirement Status
Citizenship	Required (U.S.)
Education Substitution	Not Permitted
Probationary Period	1 Year Required
Security Clearance	Not Required (Moderate Risk)

Salary and Benefits

This position offers a competitive salary range of $106,437 to $172,980 per year. Beyond the salary, employees enjoy the standard federal benefits package, which includes robust retirement options, comprehensive health insurance, and the opportunity for professional growth within one of the largest agencies in the federal government.

Application Tips

Be Concise: Your resume must be two pages or less. Focus on the accomplishments that directly align with the duties of an Administrative Officer.
Check Your Status: Use the application portal to monitor your submission status regularly.
Prepare for Assessments: The USA Hire assessment is a critical component of the evaluation. Utilize the OPM resource center to prepare.

Working for the USDA as an Administrative Officer is more than just a job; it is a chance to provide the operational backbone for vital agricultural protection programs. If you meet the criteria and are ready to tackle complex challenges, submit your application through the official portal before the closing date.

Why This Administrative Officer Job Matters

Join the USDA’s mission to safeguard America’s agriculture and livestock by providing critical resource management leadership in the fight against the New World Screwworm.

Administrative Officer Job Overview

The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) is seeking a highly motivated Administrative Officer to join the Marketing and Regulatory Programs division. This high-impact role centers on providing strategic administrative, personnel, and resource management support for the New World Screwworm (NWS) outbreak response. The successful candidate will analyze complex data, optimize budget allocation, and provide essential consultation to leadership to ensure mission success in both domestic and global agricultural markets.

Requirements for Administrative Officer

Must be a U.S. citizen.
Must meet time-in-grade requirements (52 weeks at the GS-12 level or equivalent for current federal employees).
Must possess one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-12 level in the public or private sector.
Must complete the mandatory USA Hire online assessment within the specified window.
Must submit a resume not exceeding two pages.
Must be able to pass a background check for a Moderate Risk (MR) position.

Preferred Qualifications for Administrative Officer

Proven track record in designing and overseeing work measurement systems.
Experience in coordinating multi-disciplinary administrative teams including IT, budget, and human capital.
Demonstrated ability to prepare and present complex financial reports to senior leadership.
Success in developing systematic approaches to resolve administrative bottlenecks and improve operational efficiency.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive federal salary with step increases.
✓Comprehensive health and life insurance options.
✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
✓Opportunities for professional development and training.
✓Flexible work arrangements, including telework eligibility.

💡 How to Apply Administrative Officer Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Administrative Officer Job

Create or update your account on the official federal hiring portal.
Prepare a concise resume (max 2 pages) highlighting your relevant experience and specific duties.
Submit your online application and complete the required occupational questionnaire.
Watch for an email notification inviting you to complete the USA Hire competency-based assessments.
Monitor your application status through the online portal to confirm receipt of all documents.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume strictly adheres to the two-page limit to avoid disqualification.
Tailor your resume to directly address the major duties listed in the job announcement.
Complete your USA Hire assessment as soon as you receive the link; do not wait until the last minute.
Verify that all uploaded documents (SF-50s, transcripts, etc.) are in a readable format and clearly legible.
Use the 'Application Status' feature to verify that your uploaded documents have successfully transferred to the agency's system.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary mission of this Administrative Officer role?

The role focuses on supporting the New World Screwworm outbreak response by providing leadership in resource management, data analysis, and administrative consultation to directorate officials.

Is this position eligible for telework?

Yes, this position is eligible for telework, though specific arrangements will be managed in accordance with agency policy.

What happens if my resume is longer than two pages?

Submissions that exceed the two-page limit will be automatically removed from consideration, so please ensure your document is concise.

Does APHIS require travel?

As an emergency response agency, you may be called upon to participate in temporary duty assignments to support emergency programs.

Can I update my application after I have submitted it?

Yes, you can update your materials through the 'Application Status' page as long as the announcement is still open.

Job from Animal And Plant Health Inspection Service

The Marketing and Regulatory Programs (MRP) division of the USDA is dedicated to facilitating the movement of U.S. agricultural products while protecting the health and care of plants and animals. As an emergency response agency, APHIS serves as the first line of defense for America's agricultural infrastructure. Employees here are committed to global market stability and the protection of the American people.