Leading the Future of Animal Health: Executive Director of Field Operations

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) is calling for visionary leaders to step into the role of Executive Director for Field Operations within the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS). This is a premier Senior Executive Service (SES) opportunity designed for professionals who possess the strategic acumen to safeguard American agriculture, facilitate international trade, and lead complex regulatory initiatives.

Job Responsibilities

In this role, you will oversee critical functions that maintain the integrity of U.S. animal health systems. Key responsibilities include:

Advising the Associate Deputy Administrator on strategic priorities and program operations.
Leading national efforts in surveillance, preparedness, and disease response.
Supervising major units, including Veterinary Export Trade Services and Port Services.
Coordinating complex emergency response activities to manage zoonotic health threats.
Aligning operational budgets with national agricultural goals.

Requirements

Success in this role requires a blend of high-level leadership and specific veterinary expertise. Candidates must ensure their resume addresses both the Executive Core Qualifications (ECQs) and Technical Qualifications (TQ) in a 2-page format.

Comparison of Qualifications

Qualification Type	Requirement Focus	Documentation Method
Executive Core (ECQ)	Leadership and Strategy	Embedded in 2-page Resume
Technical (TQ)	Veterinary Ops & Trade	Embedded in 2-page Resume
Education	DVM/VMD Degree	Transcript/Credential Copy

Salary Overview

This position offers a highly competitive salary consistent with SES Level II standards, ranging from $204,122 to $216,010 per year, depending on qualifications and performance history.

Benefits

Federal retirement and savings plans.
Comprehensive health and life insurance.
Performance-based incentive awards.
Leadership development and training.

Application Tips

Be Concise: The 2-page limit for your resume is strictly enforced.
Be Specific: Provide concrete examples of how you have driven efficiency and managed resources.
Formatting: Use 11-point font and 0.8-inch margins. Excess pages will not be reviewed.

Serving as the Executive Director for Field Operations is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the American system of government and the protection of our agricultural heritage. If you are prepared to lead at the highest levels, we encourage you to apply.

Why This Executive Director Field Operations Job Matters

Lead the future of U.S. animal health and agricultural security in this pivotal Senior Executive Service (SES) role with the USDA.

Executive Director Field Operations Job Overview

The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) is seeking a visionary Executive Director for Field Operations within Veterinary Services. In this high-level leadership role, you will shape national policies, drive operational excellence, and safeguard the health and security of U.S. animal resources through strategic surveillance, trade facilitation, and emergency response.

Requirements for Executive Director Field Operations

Possession of a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) or equivalent degree from an AVMA-accredited institution.
Must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret level security clearance.
U.S. citizenship is required.
Must be able to address Executive Core Qualifications (ECQs) and Technical Qualifications (TQs) directly within a 2-page resume.
Ability to serve a one-year probationary period upon appointment.
Submission of required SF-50 forms for current or former Federal employees.

Preferred Qualifications for Executive Director Field Operations

Proven track record of leadership in veterinary services field operations.
Experience managing large-scale regulatory oversight, surveillance, and emergency response programs.
Expertise in international trade requirements for live animals and animal products.
Demonstrated ability to manage complex budgets, technological upgrades, and organizational change.
Certified by a Qualifications Review Board (QRB) or completion of an SES Candidate Development Program.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive Senior Executive Service (SES) salary structure.
✓Eligibility for performance-based bonuses and awards.
✓Comprehensive Federal health and retirement benefits.
✓Opportunities for professional growth within the USDA.
✓Telework flexibility where applicable.

💡 How to Apply Executive Director Field Operations Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Executive Director Field Operations Job

Create or update your account on the official federal jobs portal.
Prepare a concise 2-page resume that integrates your accomplishments with the specific ECQs and TQs.
Gather supporting documentation including transcripts and proof of veterinary licensing.
Complete the online questionnaire through the application link.
Upload all documents as PDF or other accepted formats, ensuring total files are under 5MB.
Submit your application package before the closing date.

💡 General Tips

Do not submit separate narrative statements for ECQs; these must be embedded within your 2-page resume.
Ensure your resume strictly adheres to the 11-point font and 0.8-inch margin requirements.
Clearly highlight your experience with international animal exports and biosecurity protocols.
Spell out all acronyms upon first use to ensure clarity for the review board.
Verify that your application status is confirmed via the portal after submission.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I submit a separate document for my Executive Core Qualifications?

No. The application is strictly resume-only. You must embed your ECQ and TQ accomplishments directly into your 2-page resume.

Are there specific requirements for my veterinary degree?

Yes, you must hold a DVM or equivalent from an AVMA-accredited school or provide documentation of foreign education equivalency.

What is the security clearance requirement?

This position requires a Secret security clearance.

Can foreign-educated veterinarians apply?

Yes, provided they meet specific equivalency and licensure standards as detailed in the announcement.

Job from Animal And Plant Health Inspection Service

APHIS is at the forefront of protecting and promoting U.S. agricultural health. By working with international partners, state agencies, and private organizations, APHIS ensures the safety and security of our food supply and the health of the nation's livestock. As an Executive Director, you will join an agency dedicated to high-level policy implementation and emergency preparedness.