Launch Your Career as a County Program Analyst with the USDA FSA
Are you looking to pivot your career toward public service while staying connected to the agricultural industry? The USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) is currently hiring a County Program Analyst in Hamilton, Alabama. This role is a fantastic opportunity for individuals eager to support local producers and help manage the programs that keep American agriculture running smoothly.
Job Responsibilities
As a County Program Analyst, your day-to-day duties will be varied and impactful. You will:
- Carry out office activities pertaining to agricultural program areas.
- Interpret and explain complex program regulations and forms to farmers and internal staff.
- Utilize specialized web-based software to maintain and process producer data.
- Apply initiative and professional judgment to resolve problems and improve office efficiency.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, applicants must be U.S. citizens and meet the specific criteria outlined in the vacancy announcement. Depending on the grade level (CO-05 to CO-09), requirements vary between education, experience, or a combination of both.
| Level | Qualifying Experience / Education |
|---|---|
| CO-05 | 4-year degree OR 1 year of general office/agricultural experience |
| CO-07 | 1 year graduate study OR Superior Academic Achievement OR 1 year specialized experience |
| CO-09 | Master's degree OR 2 years graduate study OR 1 year specialized experience |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary structure ranging from $40,736 to $80,243 per year. Beyond the paycheck, the USDA offers an extensive benefits package:
- Health & Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans.
- Future Planning: Retirement and supplemental savings plans (TSP).
- Time Off: Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
- Flexibility: Work-life balance through flexible schedules and potential telework opportunities.
How to Apply
Applying is a straightforward, electronic process. Ensure your resume is limited to two pages and clearly outlines your work history with dates and hours worked per week. You must submit unofficial transcripts if you are using your education to qualify. Visit the official USAJOBS portal to start your application and ensure all documents are uploaded before the closing date.
Working with the Farm Service Agency is more than just a job; it is a chance to serve your community and the American public. If you possess strong analytical skills and a desire to contribute to agricultural success, we encourage you to submit your application today.
Why This County Program Analyst Job Matters
Launch a meaningful career supporting the agricultural backbone of Alabama by joining the Farm Service Agency as a County Program Analyst.
County Program Analyst Job Overview
The USDA Farm Service Agency is seeking a dedicated professional for a County Program Analyst role based in Hamilton, Alabama. This position is ideal for individuals who are passionate about supporting American agriculture and navigating complex government programs. In this role, you will act as a key liaison between the agency and producers, helping to manage administrative functions, interpret federal regulations, and implement vital agricultural support programs. This is a non-federal, Title 7 position offering a competitive salary range of $40,736 to $80,243, depending on qualifications.
Requirements for County Program Analyst
- U.S. Citizenship is required.
- Must be able to meet eligibility requirements by the closing date.
- Ability to submit a resume not exceeding 2 pages.
- Must provide unofficial college transcripts at the time of application if qualifying via education.
- Ability to pass standard background and credentialing checks.
- Proficiency in basic analytical, fact-finding, and problem-solving techniques.
Preferred Qualifications for County Program Analyst
- Bachelor’s degree or higher in a relevant field.
- One year of specialized experience equivalent to the CO-05 or CO-07 grade level in federal service.
- Superior Academic Achievement (3.0 GPA or higher on a 4.0 scale).
- Experience in agricultural operations or government program management.
- Strong proficiency in utilizing web-based software and automated office systems.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Paid vacation and sick leave
- ✓Paid federal holidays
- ✓Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
- ✓Life insurance plans
- ✓Retirement and supplemental savings plans (TSP)
- ✓Flexible spending accounts
- ✓Flexible work schedules and telework eligibility
💡 How to Apply County Program Analyst Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for County Program Analyst Job
- Review the full vacancy announcement thoroughly.
- Prepare a resume that specifically highlights your work experience, including dates, hours per week, and job titles.
- Gather your college transcripts if using education to qualify.
- Create or update your USAJOBS profile.
- Click the Apply button to access the online assessment questionnaire.
- Upload all required documentation (Resume, Transcripts) in approved formats (PDF, Word, TXT, etc.).
- Submit your application package by 11:59 p.m. ET on the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume includes detailed information about your work history, specifically titles and the grade/series if you are a current or former federal employee.
- Do not exceed the two-page limit for your resume.
- Verify that your uploaded documents appear correctly in the staffing system after transfer.
- Turn on email notifications in your USAJOBS profile to receive status updates.
- If you encounter technical difficulties, reach out to the contact provided in the announcement well before the deadline.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary role of a County Program Analyst?
You will be responsible for interpreting agricultural program regulations, maintaining producer data in web-based software, and providing guidance to producers and agency staff.
Is this a federal civil service position?
No, this is a Title 7, non-federal, non-civil service position within the Farm Service Agency.
Can I apply if I do not have a degree?
Yes, you can qualify through a combination of education and general work experience in agricultural operations or office/customer service functions.
Job from Farm Service Agency
The Farm Service Agency, a branch of the USDA, works to provide services that support the well-being of American agriculture. By managing commodity, credit, conservation, and disaster programs, the FSA serves as a bridge between federal resources and the farmers who feed the nation. Joining the FSA means becoming part of a professional, supportive team that values work-life balance and community impact.