Launch Your Engineering Career with the USDA

Are you looking to pivot your electrical engineering expertise toward a role that truly serves the public interest? The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) is currently seeking a motivated Electrical Engineer to join their Engineering Services Branch. This position offers a unique chance to work on high-stakes infrastructure projects while contributing to a mission that protects the health of American agriculture.

Job Responsibilities

As an Electrical Engineer, your daily tasks will involve more than just circuit analysis. You will be a key contributor to the agency's facility lifecycle. Responsibilities include:

Planning and Design: Developing criteria, specifications, and cost estimates for major construction projects.
Project Management: Acting as a project manager to oversee building alterations, repairs, and utilities upgrades.
Compliance Monitoring: Ensuring all construction work adheres to strict electrical design standards and safety regulations.
Technical Leadership: Advising Contracting Officers, evaluating contractor proposals, and resolving complex technical issues on-site.

Requirements

To be considered, candidates must meet the following eligibility requirements:

Requirement Type	Detail
Education	Bachelor's degree in Engineering (ABET-accredited)
Experience	One year of specialized experience at the GS-07 equivalent level
Certification	Ability to obtain COR credentials within 6 months
Clearance	Moderate Risk (MR) background check required

Salary and Benefits

This position is structured at the GS-09 level, with an annual salary range of $61,722 to $80,243. While this role begins at the GS-09 level, it features a promotion potential of up to GS-13, allowing for significant professional advancement for high-performing employees. Federal employment also includes a robust suite of benefits, including health and retirement plans, and the satisfaction of contributing to government efficiency.

Application Tips

Applying for a federal position can be competitive. Follow these steps to improve your chances:

Customize Your Resume: Ensure it highlights specific achievements in electrical engineering. Do not exceed the two-page limit.
Supporting Documentation: If using education to qualify, ensure your transcripts are legible and include all necessary course data.
Assessments: Be prepared to complete the USA Hire competency assessments if invited. These measure critical skills like teamwork and reasoning.

Is there a probationary period?

Yes, all new hires must serve a one-year probationary period to evaluate their fitness and contribution to agency goals.

If you are an engineer who values stability, the opportunity to impact national infrastructure, and a clear path for professional growth, this USDA position is an excellent opportunity. Review the requirements carefully and submit your application before the closing date to join the APHIS team.

Why This Electrical Engineer Job Matters

Power the future of agricultural protection—join the USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service as an Electrical Engineer and manage high-impact facility projects across the nation.

Electrical Engineer Job Overview

The USDA's Marketing and Regulatory Programs division is seeking a dedicated Electrical Engineer to join the Engineering Services Branch. You will play a vital role in the planning, design, and construction of agency-owned and leased facilities. This position offers the opportunity to serve as a project manager and technical expert, ensuring that critical infrastructure meets rigorous safety, code, and agency standards. You will collaborate with diverse teams to maintain the electrical systems that support our national agricultural health mission.

Requirements for Electrical Engineer

U.S. Citizenship.
Bachelor's degree in Engineering (from an ABET-accredited program) OR a combination of education and experience equivalent to engineering requirements.
One year of specialized experience at the GS-07 level or equivalent.
Ability to obtain Contracting Officer's Representative (COR) credentials within 6 months of hire.
Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds.
Ability to pass a Moderate Risk (MR) background investigation.
Financial disclosure statement submission required.

Preferred Qualifications for Electrical Engineer

Professional Engineer (PE) licensure.
Engineer in Training (EIT) certification.
Demonstrated experience in project management for major construction initiatives.
Strong technical background in electrical design, construction compliance, and safety standards.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive federal benefits package.
✓Opportunities for career growth and promotion potential up to GS-13.
✓Exposure to high-level agency facility planning.
✓Structured training for specialized certifications like COR.

💡 How to Apply Electrical Engineer Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Electrical Engineer Job

Create or update your profile on USAJOBS.
Prepare a resume that does not exceed two pages, detailing your specific duties, hours worked, and supervisor contact information.
Submit your application through the online portal, ensuring all required documents (transcripts, etc.) are attached.
Complete the required online Occupational Questionnaire.
If notified, complete the USA Hire Competency Based Assessments within the specified deadline.

💡 General Tips

Tailor your resume to directly address the major duties listed in the job announcement.
Ensure your resume explicitly maps your experience to the GS-09 level requirements.
Double-check that all uploaded documents are under 5MB and in supported formats (PDF, DOC, etc.).
Set up automated email notifications in USAJOBS to stay informed about your application status.
Ensure all education transcripts are clear and show the institution name and relevant course completion.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the promotion potential for this position?

This role is currently advertised at the GS-09 level but has a career promotion potential up to GS-13, subject to management approval and performance.

Can I relocate for this position?

No, travel, transportation, and relocation expenses will not be paid by the agency.

Does this position allow for remote work?

No, this position requires physical presence for project management, site visits, and construction inspections.

Job from Animal And Plant Health Inspection Service

The Marketing and Regulatory Programs (MRP) division of the USDA operates on both domestic and global fronts to facilitate safe agricultural trade and protect animal and plant resources. Working at APHIS is more than just a job; it is a commitment to national security and food safety. The agency is known for being an emergency response force, meaning employees may be called upon to support critical programs as needed, making every day on the job impactful.