Advance Your Career as a Secretary (OA) with the USDA in Manhattan
Are you looking to pivot into a challenging, high-impact administrative role? The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is looking for a dedicated Secretary (OA) to support the National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility (NBAF) in Manhattan, Kansas. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to the nation’s agricultural security while working at one of the most advanced research centers in the country.
Job Responsibilities
As a Secretary (OA), you are the heartbeat of the Director's office. Your primary responsibilities include:
- Executive Assistance: Providing confidential, high-level administrative and program support to the NBAF Director.
- Operational Management: Managing the Director’s daily calendar, which includes scheduling complex meetings and conferences without constant supervision.
- Communications: Serving as a primary point of contact for the office, handling phone calls, screening correspondence, and directing visitors with professional tact.
- Process Enhancement: Reviewing incoming regulations and directives, and recommending ways to streamline office procedures for better efficiency.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, you must meet the following criteria by the closing date:
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen or National.
- Experience: One year of specialized experience comparable to the GS-07 level.
- Typing Skills: Ability to type a minimum of 40 words per minute.
- Professionalism: Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive high-profile tasks independently.
Comparison Table: Why Choose this Role?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary Range | $55,882 - $72,644 per year |
| Location | Manhattan, Kansas |
| Role Type | Competitive Service |
| Career Path | Administrative/Secretarial |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary ranging from $55,882 to $72,644 per year. Beyond the paycheck, federal employment with the USDA provides a robust benefits package, including health insurance, generous leave policies, and a stable retirement plan through the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
Application Tips
To ensure your application is successful, follow these tips:
- Strictly follow the resume format: Keep it to exactly two pages. The system will discard any resume exceeding this limit.
- Be specific: When describing your experience, detail the hours worked per week and the specific duties that align with the major duties listed in the job description.
- Prepare for assessments: You may be asked to take the USA Hire assessment. Use the resources on the USA Hire Applicant Resource Center to prepare.
This position is more than just a job; it is a chance to provide the essential administrative infrastructure that enables world-class agricultural research. If you are ready to make a significant impact in a fast-paced environment, apply today.
Why This Secretary (Oa) Job Matters
Launch a high-impact career at the forefront of agricultural science and national biosecurity as a Secretary for the USDA's National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility.
Secretary (Oa) Job Overview
The USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS) is seeking a highly organized and detail-oriented Secretary (OA) to support the Director's office at the state-of-the-art National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility (NBAF) in Manhattan, Kansas. In this pivotal role, you will act as a key administrative partner to the Director, managing complex scheduling, high-level communications, and office procedures that support critical national research missions.
Requirements for Secretary (Oa)
- U.S. Citizenship or National status
- Must be registered with the Selective Service (if born after 12/31/1959)
- Must be able to type at least 40 words per minute
- One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-07 grade level
- Ability to successfully pass a background investigation and fingerprint check
- Completion of a 1-year probationary period
- Mandatory enrollment in direct deposit for federal pay
Preferred Qualifications for Secretary (Oa)
- Experience managing executive-level calendars and scheduling
- Strong proficiency in composing professional correspondence
- Demonstrated ability to improve or streamline office administrative procedures
- Excellent interpersonal skills for handling high-profile visitors and inquiries
- Proven track record of managing confidential and sensitive information
Federal Benefits & Perks
- âś“Competitive Federal Salary
- âś“Health and Life Insurance options
- âś“Retirement savings plans (FERS)
- âś“Paid vacation and sick leave
- âś“Flexible work arrangements (telework eligible)
- âś“Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives
đź’ˇ How to Apply Secretary (Oa) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Secretary (Oa) Job
- Review the full vacancy announcement thoroughly.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly limited to two pages.
- Click the Apply Online button to access the USA Staffing system.
- Complete all required questionnaires and assessment components.
- Upload all necessary supporting documents (SF-50s, transcripts, etc.).
- Submit your complete application package before the 11:59 PM ET deadline on September 14, 2026.
đź’ˇ General Tips
- Ensure your resume strictly adheres to the two-page limit; exceeding this will disqualify your application.
- Have your most recent SF-50 and performance appraisal ready if you are a current or former federal employee.
- Save your progress frequently within the application portal.
- Set aside 1-2 hours to complete the required USA Hire assessments in a quiet, distraction-free environment.
- Double-check that all uploaded document files are under 5MB and in supported formats like PDF or Word.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position eligible for telework?
Yes, this role is eligible for telework, subject to agency policy and applicable collective bargaining agreements.
What is the maximum page count for the resume?
Your resume must not exceed two pages. Applications exceeding this limit will be automatically removed from consideration.
Do I need to take assessments for this job?
Yes, you may be required to complete USA Hire assessments. You will be notified via email with a unique link if this applies to your application.
Job from Agricultural Research Service
The Agricultural Research Service (ARS) serves as the primary internal research agency for the USDA. The National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility (NBAF) represents the future of U.S. biosecurity, focusing on preventing and controlling foreign animal diseases that could threaten the nation's food supply and economy. As an employee of the NBAF, you will support a mission-driven organization that values innovation, integrity, and public service.