Embark on a Meaningful Career: Program Support Assistant at the USDA ARS

Are you looking to transition into a career where your organizational talents directly support scientific discovery? The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Agricultural Research Service (ARS) is currently hiring Program Support Assistants to provide the essential administrative infrastructure our scientists need to solve the world's most pressing agricultural challenges.

Job Responsibilities

As a Program Support Assistant, you are the heartbeat of the office. Your role is dynamic and multifaceted, involving:

Financial Coordination: Managing budgets, tracking procurement of supplies, and handling financial forms.
Administrative Oversight: Acting as the primary point of contact for office administrative processes.
Scientific Support: Assisting in the preparation of manuscripts, creating charts for research presentations, and coordinating project logistics.
Process Improvement: Developing and implementing new administrative systems to streamline unit operations.

Requirements

To qualify for this position, candidates must demonstrate a strong background in administrative support. Key requirements include:

Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen.
Skill Requirements: Minimum typing speed of 40 words per minute.
Security: Ability to pass a federal background check and fingerprinting.
Compliance: Adherence to direct deposit and E-Verify protocols.

Feature	Details
Hiring Agency	USDA Agricultural Research Service
Series	0303 - Miscellaneous Clerk and Assistant
Grade Levels	GS-6 to GS-7
Work Schedule	Full-time
Telework	Eligible

Salary Overview

The salary range for this position varies by location due to locality pay adjustments, spanning from $45,409 to $77,306 annually. Please review the specific location listing to determine the pay band for your area of interest.

Benefits

Federal employment offers a comprehensive benefits package that is hard to beat, including:

Extensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
Paid annual and sick leave.
Opportunities for professional growth and training.

Application Tips

Watch the Length: Your resume must be two pages or less. Submissions exceeding this limit will not be considered.
Be Thorough: Ensure you detail your experience in financial and clerical work in your resume.
Assessments: Do not overlook the USA Hire assessment link; failing to complete this step will result in an incomplete application.

Is previous federal experience required?

No, this role is open to the public, provided you meet the minimum qualifications listed.

If you are a detail-oriented professional looking to provide mission-critical support in a federal environment, this Program Support Assistant role is the perfect way to begin your journey with the USDA. Apply today and help us support the science that feeds the world.

Why This Program Support Assistant Job Matters

Launch your administrative career with a science-driven mission—support life-changing agricultural research at the USDA.

Program Support Assistant Job Overview

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Agricultural Research Service (ARS) is seeking dedicated Program Support Assistants to join our administrative teams nationwide. As a key partner to our Research Leaders and scientific staff, you will facilitate the critical behind-the-scenes work that enables ground-breaking agricultural discovery. This role offers the opportunity to apply your organizational, financial, and administrative expertise in a high-impact federal environment.

Requirements for Program Support Assistant

Must be a United States Citizen or National.
Males born after 12/31/1959 must be registered with the Selective Service.
Must successfully pass a background investigation and fingerprint check.
Ability to type at least 40 words per minute.
Required to sign up for direct deposit for salary payments.
Must complete a 1-year probationary or 2-year trial period.
Submission of a professional resume not exceeding two pages.

Preferred Qualifications for Program Support Assistant

Experience in financial document preparation and budget tracking.
Proficiency with office software to manage reports, graphics, and data visualization.
Strong communication skills for editing scientific manuscripts and reports.
Experience coordinating complex travel arrangements and unit logistics.
Demonstrated ability to maintain detailed office records and handle procurement procedures.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Federal health, dental, and vision insurance options.
✓Comprehensive retirement planning including FERS.
✓Generous paid vacation and sick leave.
✓Flexible work arrangements, including telework eligibility.
✓Career development and potential for internal promotion.

💡 How to Apply Program Support Assistant Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Program Support Assistant Job

Log into your USAJOBS account and review the full job announcement carefully.
Prepare a resume that does not exceed the two-page limit.
Click the Apply Online button and complete all mandatory questionnaires.
Attach all required supporting documentation (SF-50, transcripts, veteran proof if applicable).
Submit your application package before 11:59 PM ET on the closing date.
Monitor your email for a link to the USA Hire assessment and complete it within the designated timeframe.

💡 General Tips

Verify that your resume strictly adheres to the two-page limit; submissions exceeding this will be disqualified.
Check your USAJOBS profile settings to ensure you are receiving email notifications regarding your application status.
Use the USA Hire Applicant Resource Center to practice assessment modules before your official test.
Ensure all uploaded documents are under 5MB and in supported formats like PDF or Word.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary role of a Program Support Assistant at the ARS?

You will serve as an administrative anchor for a scientific unit, assisting research leaders with financial documentation, travel coordination, manuscript preparation, and general office workflow.

Is this position eligible for remote work?

The position is not fully remote; however, it is telework-eligible, meaning you may be able to utilize flexible work arrangements as determined by agency policy.

Can I apply if I am not a current federal employee?

Yes, this position is open to all qualified candidates under the delegated examining announcement.

What is the difference between this and the other ARS announcements?

This position is part of a concurrent recruitment strategy. Applying to all relevant announcements may increase your visibility to hiring managers.

Job from Agricultural Research Service

The Agricultural Research Service is the in-house research arm of the USDA. Our mission is to conduct research that delivers solutions to agricultural problems from the field to the table. Our employees are integral to ensuring the safety, sustainability, and efficiency of the food systems that impact millions of lives daily.