Launch Your Career as a Quantitative Risk Analyst with the USDA
Are you a scientist looking to translate complex data into real-world regulatory solutions? The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) is currently seeking talented Biological Scientists and Agriculturists to join our team in Ames, Iowa, or Raleigh, North Carolina. This is a vital role for professionals who thrive at the intersection of biological science, advanced statistics, and public policy.
Job Responsibilities
This position is centered on the application of quantitative methods to high-stakes regulatory environments:
- Ames, IA: You will support the Veterinary Biologics Program, focusing on protein expression studies, pathogen detection, and regulatory compliance.
- Raleigh, NC: You will develop spatial and predictive models to assess the introduction, spread, and impacts of plant pests and diseases.
Core Duties Table
| Function | Focus Area | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Model Development | Quantitative Analysis | Influences national policy |
| Scientific Study | Laboratory/Field Analysis | Ensures scientific integrity |
| Collaboration | Regulatory/Technical | Bridges science and operations |
Requirements
To be considered for this GS-12 position, applicants must meet specific criteria:
- Education: A degree in biological sciences, chemistry, agriculture, or natural resource management.
- Experience: One year of specialized experience at the GS-11 level demonstrating the ability to conduct complex scientific studies or risk assessments.
- Compliance: Ability to pass a drug test and maintain suitability standards.
Salary Overview
The salary range for this position is $90,234 to $121,511 per year, commensurate with your duty station and professional experience.
Benefits
Working for the federal government provides robust benefits including:
- Health and Wellness: Premium federal health, dental, and vision insurance.
- Retirement: Access to the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- Work-Life Balance: Telework flexibility and generous paid time off.
Application Tips
- Resume Precision: Keep your resume under two pages and ensure it highlights your specific contributions to quantitative research.
- Quantifiable Success: Use metrics to describe how your risk assessments or scientific methodologies influenced program outcomes.
This is more than just a job; it is a mission to protect the American agricultural landscape. If you possess the analytical skills to model the future of our food supply, we encourage you to submit your application by the closing date.
Why This Biological Scientist/Agriculturist (Quantitative Risk Analyst) Job Matters
Advance your career as a quantitative risk expert with the USDA and protect the future of American agriculture.
Biological Scientist/Agriculturist (Quantitative Risk Analyst) Job Overview
The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) is seeking highly motivated Biological Scientists and Agriculturists to join our team in either Ames, Iowa, or Raleigh, North Carolina. As a Quantitative Risk Analyst, you will play a critical role in upholding scientific integrity, supporting the Virus-Serum-Toxin Act, and conducting complex risk modeling to secure the health of U.S. plants and animals. This position offers a unique opportunity to shape national programs through data-driven decision-making.
Requirements for Biological Scientist/Agriculturist (Quantitative Risk Analyst)
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Completion of a degree in biological sciences, agriculture, natural resource management, chemistry, or a related field.
- One year of specialized experience at the GS-11 grade level (or equivalent in private/public sector).
- Must be able to pass a drug test and meet suitability/fitness requirements.
- Ability to work in an emergency response capacity as needed.
- Submission of a resume not exceeding two pages.
Preferred Qualifications for Biological Scientist/Agriculturist (Quantitative Risk Analyst)
- Expertise in applying scientific principles to epidemiology, microbiology, or ecology.
- Proven track record in designing and interpreting complex experimental data or risk models.
- Demonstrated experience in developing scientific methodologies or sampling schemes.
- Strong communication skills for documenting scientific findings through peer-reviewed reports or technical presentations.
- Experience collaborating with diverse regulatory partners to influence national programs.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal career advancement opportunities
- ✓Promotion potential up to the GS-13 level
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance
- ✓Retirement and pension programs
- ✓Telework opportunities
- ✓Work-life balance with competitive leave policies
💡 How to Apply Biological Scientist/Agriculturist (Quantitative Risk Analyst) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Biological Scientist/Agriculturist (Quantitative Risk Analyst) Job
- Register for a USAJOBS account to track your application status.
- Create or update your resume, ensuring it does not exceed two pages.
- Gather your academic transcripts, showing all relevant coursework.
- Submit your application through the online portal, including the Occupational Questionnaire.
- Monitor your email for notifications regarding your application status.
💡 General Tips
- Your resume must explicitly detail duties and accomplishments that align with the major duties listed in the announcement.
- Ensure your resume includes supervisors' contact information for each role listed.
- Check for document formatting requirements (PDF, Word, or TXT) and ensure files are under 5MB.
- Use the 'Preview Questionnaire' link to understand the assessment criteria before you begin.
- Contact the provided agency help desk if you require reasonable accommodations for a disability.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum page length for my resume?
Your resume must be exactly two pages or fewer. Any resume exceeding this limit will result in disqualification.
Is this a remote position?
No, this is not a fully remote position, though it is telework-eligible. Candidates must be able to report to their duty station in Ames, IA, or Raleigh, NC.
Does veterans' preference apply to this role?
No, veterans' preference does not apply to this specific vacancy as it is being filled under Direct Hire Authority.
Job from Animal And Plant Health Inspection Service
The USDA’s Marketing and Regulatory Programs (MRP) protects the health and care of animals and plants in the United States. We facilitate domestic and global trade while ensuring the safety of our food supply. By joining APHIS, you become part of an essential team that responds to national agricultural emergencies and sets the standard for scientific integrity.