Advance Agricultural Health: Mathematical Statistician Position at USDA APHIS

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) is looking for a dedicated and analytical mind to join the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS). If you are an expert in quantitative risk analysis and have a passion for public service, this role as a Mathematical Statistician (GS-14) offers an unparalleled opportunity to impact national agricultural safety. Located in the scenic town of Buzzards Bay, Massachusetts, this position serves at the forefront of the New World Screwworm (NWS) eradication initiative.

Job Responsibilities

As a senior quantitative risk analyst, you will be instrumental in the NWS eradication efforts. Your primary duties will include:

• Quantitative Risk Analysis: Developing and overseeing data analyses for NWS case reports and international surveillance data.
• Statistical Modeling: Creating and adapting advanced statistical tools to predict disease spread and evaluate the efficacy of management strategies.
• Advisory Role: Serving as the principal specialist for NWS case analysis, integrating epidemiological and geospatial factors into agency strategy.
• Leadership: Representing APHIS in international and interagency forums, ensuring that evidence-based recommendations are clearly communicated to stakeholders.

Comparison: Standard Data Roles vs. APHIS Statistician

Feature	Private Sector Statistician	APHIS Mathematical Statistician
Core Goal	Market Profitability	Agricultural/Public Health Safety
Scope	Localized/Company Data	International/Ecological Surveillance
Impact	Competitive Advantage	National Security & Biological Integrity

Requirements

To be considered for this high-level position, you must demonstrate:

• Educational Background: A degree with at least 24 semester hours of math and statistics.
• Specialized Experience: One year of professional experience equivalent to the GS-13 grade level.
• Assessment Proficiency: Successful completion of the USA Hire Competency Based Assessments.
• Documentation: A concise, two-page maximum resume highlighting your relevant accomplishments and work history.

Salary Overview

This position is classified at the GS-14 level, offering a competitive annual salary ranging from $142,452 to $185,193. This reflects the high level of technical expertise and leadership responsibility required for the role.

Benefits

Working for the federal government provides a comprehensive suite of benefits, including:

• Robust health and life insurance options.
• Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
• Paid annual leave and federal holidays.
• Opportunities for professional growth and specialized training.

Application Tips

1. Focus on Quality: Ensure your resume highlights quantifiable results rather than just duties.
2. Adhere to Constraints: The two-page resume limit is strictly enforced. Focus on the most pertinent information related to the major duties.
3. Prepare for Assessments: Use the USA Hire Applicant Resource Center to familiarize yourself with the testing format.
4. Monitor Your Status: Use the USAJOBS portal to track your application status to ensure you don't miss important communications from the agency.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What is the security level for this position? A: This position is designated as High Risk (HR), requiring a comprehensive background investigation.

Q: Can I submit a resume longer than two pages? A: No. Applicants who submit a resume exceeding two pages will be automatically removed from consideration.

Q: Is there an education substitution for this grade level? A: No, there is no education substitution for the GS-14 level; applicants must demonstrate the required specialized experience.

If you are a mathematical professional seeking to apply your skills in a setting where they directly support the health of the American landscape, this position at APHIS is an exceptional opportunity. We encourage all qualified applicants to review the full job announcement carefully and submit a comprehensive, compliant application package.