Pursue a Career in Agricultural Innovation: Agronomist (Farm Manager) at the USDA
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) is inviting applications for the position of Agronomist (Farm Manager) at the Agricultural Research Service (ARS) in Corvallis, Oregon. This is a unique opportunity for professionals dedicated to plant science to contribute directly to the global food supply chain through the preservation of genetic resources.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will manage field germplasm collections, which are critical for research and long-term conservation. Your daily duties will include:
- Planning and executing field plot layouts.
- Ensuring plant health through precise irrigation, pest control, and soil management.
- Operating and maintaining specialized farm machinery and facilities.
- Performing statistical analysis on experimental data and drafting research reports.
Requirements
To be eligible for this position, applicants must meet specific federal standards, including:
- U.S. Citizenship or National status.
- Proficiency in agronomic sciences through education or a combination of experience and education.
- Ability to secure a pesticide applicator license.
- A two-page limit on your resume submission.
Salary and Grade Comparison
| Grade Level | Education/Experience Requirement | Expected Salary Range |
|---|---|---|
| GS-09 | Master's degree or 1 year of specialized experience | $66,505 - $104,610 |
| GS-11 | Ph.D. or 1 year of GS-09 equivalent experience | $66,505 - $104,610 |
Benefits
Employees of the USDA enjoy a robust federal benefits package, including comprehensive health insurance, federal retirement programs, and generous paid time off. The position also offers the potential for recruitment or relocation incentives for highly qualified candidates.
Application Tips
- Follow the two-page resume rule strictly.
- Ensure your transcripts are accessible and legible.
- Utilize the USA Hire resources for assessment preparation.
If you are ready to apply your agronomy skills in a research-driven environment, the USDA Agricultural Research Service offers an unparalleled platform for professional growth and service to the agricultural community. Apply today to secure your future in federal science.
Why This Agronomist (Farm Manager) Job Matters
Lead vital agricultural research and food security efforts as an Agronomist and Farm Manager at the USDA's National Clonal Germplasm Repository.
Agronomist (Farm Manager) Job Overview
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Agricultural Research Service (ARS) is seeking a dedicated Agronomist to join the National Clonal Germplasm Repository in Corvallis, Oregon. This role is pivotal in managing and preserving essential genetic resources for fruit, nut, and specialty crops. You will play a hands-on role in field operations, supporting the agency’s mission to ensure global food security by maintaining high-quality experimental collections.
Requirements for Agronomist (Farm Manager)
- U.S. Citizenship or National status
- Registration with the Selective Service for males born after December 31, 1959
- Ability to obtain and maintain a pesticide applicator license
- Successful adjudication of a background investigation and fingerprint check
- Completion of a one-year probationary period
- Submission of a resume not exceeding two pages
Preferred Qualifications for Agronomist (Farm Manager)
- Experience in establishing and maintaining conditions for optimum plant health (irrigation, weed/disease/insect control)
- Proficiency in operating and maintaining farm equipment and facilities
- Expertise in organizing and managing field plots and germplasm collections
- Advanced skills in statistical data analysis and scientific reporting
- Graduate-level education in Agronomy, Crop Science, Horticulture, or related plant sciences
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Health and Life Insurance
- ✓Federal Retirement Plans
- ✓Paid Federal Holidays
- ✓Vacation and Sick Leave
- ✓Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives
- ✓Opportunities for professional career development
💡 How to Apply Agronomist (Farm Manager) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Agronomist (Farm Manager) Job
- Review the full vacancy announcement details carefully.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly limited to two pages.
- Create a USAJOBS account to track your application status.
- Click the Apply Online button and complete all mandatory questionnaires.
- Upload all required supporting documentation, including transcripts and SF-50s if applicable.
- Complete the USA Hire Competency-Based Assessments if prompted via email link.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume concise; any resume exceeding two pages will lead to automatic disqualification.
- Ensure all uploaded documents are legible and in a supported format (PDF, TXT, DOC, etc.) under 5MB.
- Check your email frequently, including spam folders, for assessment notifications.
- Submit your application well before the 11:59 PM ET deadline on the closing date.
- Use the USA Hire Applicant Resource Center to practice and prepare for assessments.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary mission of the National Clonal Germplasm Repository?
The repository focuses on acquiring, evaluating, characterizing, and distributing genetic resources for temperate fruit, nut, and specialty crops to support long-term food security.
Can I apply if I am a current federal employee?
Yes, federal employees are encouraged to apply. You must submit your most recent non-award SF-50 and performance appraisal to be considered.
What are the physical requirements for this role?
The position involves significant outdoor work, including pruning, planting, operating farm equipment, and data collection, often during critical peak seasons.
What is the work environment like?
The work is primarily field-based, requiring stamina for outdoor activities such as planting, pruning, and equipment maintenance.
Is there promotion potential?
This position offers promotion potential up to the GS-11 grade level, subject to management approval and individual performance.
Job from Agricultural Research Service
The Agricultural Research Service is the premier in-house scientific agency for the USDA. Focused on finding practical solutions to the most pressing challenges in agriculture, the ARS conducts high-impact research from the field to the table. Working at the National Clonal Germplasm Repository means joining a team dedicated to scientific excellence and ecological sustainability.