Launch Your Career: Program Support Assistant with the USDA
Are you seeking a career that combines organizational expertise with a mission-driven environment? The USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS) is currently accepting applications for Program Support Assistant roles in Miami and Fort Lauderdale, Florida. This position is central to the daily success of the Subtropical Horticulture Research Station and the Invasive Plant Research Laboratory.
Job Responsibilities
As a Program Support Assistant, you are the backbone of the office. Your primary responsibilities include:
- Administrative Liaison: Serving as the main point of contact for staff, providing technical advice on administrative policies.
- Travel Coordination: Preparing travel vouchers and logistical arrangements for both domestic and international trips.
- Financial Oversight: Assisting leadership with budget planning, monitoring spending, and preparing reports.
- Office Operations: Maintaining time and attendance records, managing procurement requests, and overseeing office automation systems.
Comparison of Grade Levels
| Feature | GS-06 Requirements | GS-07 Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Specialized Experience | 1 Year at GS-05 | 1 Year at GS-06 |
| Budgetary Duties | Financial monitoring | Financial planning & reports |
| Technical Scope | Basic office systems | Advanced software & travel coordination |
Requirements
To be considered, candidates must meet all eligibility requirements by the closing date, including:
- Proof of U.S. citizenship.
- Minimum typing proficiency of 40 words per minute.
- Clean background and fingerprint check.
- Registration with the Selective Service (if applicable).
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary ranging from $48,361 to $69,864 per year. Beyond base pay, federal employees enjoy comprehensive benefits, which often include health insurance options, retirement programs, and potential opportunities for flexible telework schedules.
Application Tips
- Watch the Length: Your resume must be two pages or fewer.
- Documentation: Ensure transcripts are included if you are qualifying based on education.
- Assessments: Set aside 1–2 hours to complete the USA Hire Assessments after your initial submission.
If you are a detail-oriented professional ready to support world-class scientific research, we encourage you to apply. This role offers the unique chance to contribute to the nation’s agricultural future while working within a supportive, stable federal environment.
Why This Program Support Assistant Job Matters
Launch your career with the USDA: Provide critical administrative support to scientific leaders in Miami and Fort Lauderdale.
Program Support Assistant Job Overview
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Agricultural Research Service (ARS) is seeking detail-oriented Program Support Assistants to join the Subtropical Horticulture Research Station and the Invasive Plant Research Laboratory. In this role, you will serve as a key administrative liaison, ensuring the efficient daily operations of our research units. From managing complex travel arrangements and timekeeping to navigating procurement processes, your support will directly enable the vital scientific work that keeps American agriculture thriving.
Requirements for Program Support Assistant
- U.S. Citizenship or National status
- Registration with the Selective Service for males born after December 31, 1959
- Ability to type 40 words per minute
- Successful completion of a background investigation and fingerprint check
- Enrollment in federal direct deposit for salary payments
- Successful completion of a 1-year probationary period
Preferred Qualifications for Program Support Assistant
- Experience in coordinating office administrative and clerical procedures
- Proficiency in managing budgets, tracking expenditures, and preparing financial reports
- Strong technical skills in word processing, spreadsheets, and presentation software
- Demonstrated ability to coordinate domestic and foreign travel for staff
- Experience providing customer service in a professional, public-facing environment
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Federal salary and benefits package
- ✓Opportunities for professional growth and career development
- ✓Potential for flexible work arrangements
- ✓Continuous learning through agency-provided training
- ✓Structured career ladder with promotion potential
💡 How to Apply Program Support Assistant Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Program Support Assistant Job
- Create or update your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume that does not exceed the two-page limit.
- Click the apply link to complete the online questionnaire.
- Upload all necessary documentation, including transcripts if education is used for qualification.
- Complete the required USA Hire Assessments once notified.
- Submit your final application package before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume strictly adheres to the two-page maximum; longer resumes will result in automatic disqualification.
- Be precise when describing your work history, including hours worked per week and specific dates.
- Take the USA Hire assessment in a quiet, distraction-free environment.
- Double-check that all uploaded documents are in accepted formats like PDF or TXT.
- Track your application status periodically through your USAJOBS dashboard.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the promotion potential for this role?
The position is advertised at the GS-06/07 level, with a full promotion potential to the GS-07 grade.
Is telework available?
Yes, this position is eligible for telework arrangements as determined by agency policy.
Are there specific education requirements?
Education may be used to meet qualification requirements, but you must submit copies of your transcripts to receive credit.
Job from Agricultural Research Service
The Agricultural Research Service is the primary in-house scientific research agency of the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Our mission is to solve complex agricultural challenges through rigorous science. From developing more resilient crops to protecting domestic plants from invasive threats, our team members play a behind-the-scenes role in ensuring food security and environmental health for all Americans.