Become an Associate Deputy Administrator: A High-Impact Leadership Role at the USDA
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) is looking for a seasoned executive to fill the position of Associate Deputy Administrator within the Agricultural Research Service (ARS). This is a premier opportunity for a visionary leader to influence the administrative and operational backbone of one of the world's most critical research agencies.
Job Responsibilities
As an Associate Deputy Administrator, you will be responsible for:
- Designing organizational strategies to improve program delivery for Research, Education, and Economics (REE) agencies.
- Overseeing the operational and financial health of the mission area.
- Leading and inspiring a workforce of over 400 federal employees across the country.
- Ensuring all administrative policies align with OPM and OMB regulations.
Requirements
This position requires an elite level of experience. Candidates must address the following Executive Core Qualifications (ECQ) and Technical Qualifications (TQ) within a two-page resume:
- Rule of Law & Principles of the American Founding
- Driving Efficiency
- Merit and Competence
- Leading People
- Achieving Results
Qualifications Comparison Table
| Criteria | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Clearance | Moderate Risk (MR) |
| Education/Experience | Executive-level leadership required |
| Document Limit | 2-Page Resume Max |
| Location | Beltsville, Maryland |
Salary Overview
This SES Level 2 position offers a highly competitive salary range between $204,122 and $216,010 per year, commensurate with experience and executive accomplishments.
Benefits
Beyond the base salary, selectees are eligible for performance bonuses and the comprehensive federal benefits package associated with the Senior Executive Service.
Application Tips
To succeed, focus on "results-oriented" language in your resume. Use the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) method to concisely address the ECQs within the two-page limit. Always double-check your formatting before hitting submit.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: When does the application period close? A: The deadline for this vacancy is October 15, 2026.
Q: Is relocation assistance provided? A: Yes, relocation benefits are available for this position.
This role offers a unique intersection of high-level management and public service. If you are prepared to lead at the enterprise level, we encourage you to apply and contribute your talents to the USDA's mission.
Why This Associate Deputy Administrator Job Matters
Lead the future of agricultural research and administrative excellence as an Associate Deputy Administrator with the USDA.
Associate Deputy Administrator Job Overview
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Agricultural Research Service is seeking a high-level executive to join the Business and Research Services team. As an Associate Deputy Administrator, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the operational strategies that support vital research initiatives across the nation. This career-reserved Senior Executive Service (SES) position requires a leader with a proven track record in financial management, complex organizational oversight, and strategic planning. You will lead over 400 federal personnel while managing critical administrative functions that sustain the agency's mission to improve the quality of life for all Americans.
Requirements for Associate Deputy Administrator
- U.S. Citizenship is required.
- Must be able to obtain and maintain a Moderate Risk (MR) security clearance.
- Submission of a concise, 2-page maximum resume addressing all ECQs and TQs.
- Adherence to formatting requirements: 11-point font and 0.8-inch margins.
- Registration with the Selective Service System for male applicants born after December 31, 1959.
- Ability to file an Executive Personnel Financial Disclosure Report (SF-278).
Preferred Qualifications for Associate Deputy Administrator
- Demonstrated expertise in leading large-scale, enterprise-wide business and administrative service units.
- Extensive experience managing financial, human resources, IT, and procurement portfolios at an executive level.
- Proven history of managing fee-for-service or reimbursable programs.
- Success in implementing continuous improvement initiatives while maintaining regulatory compliance.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Senior Executive Service (SES) salary
- ✓Performance-based bonuses and awards
- ✓Comprehensive federal benefits package
- ✓Opportunities for professional growth within a mission-critical federal agency
💡 How to Apply Associate Deputy Administrator Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Associate Deputy Administrator Job
- Create a profile on the official USAJOBS platform.
- Prepare a resume not exceeding two pages that integrates your Executive Core Qualifications (ECQ) and Technical Qualifications (TQ).
- Identify and upload all required supporting documentation, such as SF-50 forms or SES certification.
- Complete the online application and questionnaire before the closing date of October 15, 2026.
- Monitor your status via the online dashboard to ensure all documents have successfully transferred.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume strictly to the two-page limit; excess content will not be evaluated.
- Use specific, quantitative examples to demonstrate your accomplishments related to the TQs.
- Ensure all personally identifiable information (PII) is removed from uploaded documents.
- Double-check that all requested documents, including SF-50s if applicable, are attached before submitting.
- Spell out all acronyms upon their first use in your application.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to write a separate narrative for my Executive Core Qualifications?
No. The application process is resume-only. All ECQ and TQ responses must be integrated directly into your two-page resume.
What happens if I submit a resume longer than two pages?
Any content beyond page two will not be reviewed, and you risk disqualification for failing to follow formatting instructions.
Is this position eligible for telework?
Yes, this position is eligible for telework according to agency policy.
Job from Agricultural Research Service
The Agricultural Research Service is at the forefront of innovation. By conducting high-quality research and providing operational leadership, the ARS ensures that the American agricultural sector remains competitive while addressing global food safety and accessibility. Working here means joining a community dedicated to the public good and the stewardship of the American republic.