Launch Your Federal Career: Program Assistant at the USDA NIFA
Are you looking to make a meaningful impact within the federal government? The National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA), a key agency within the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), is currently seeking a talented and detail-oriented Program Assistant (OA) to join their team in Kansas City, Missouri. This role is a fantastic opportunity for individuals looking to gain experience in program administration, grant management, and agency operations.
About the Agency: National Institute of Food and Agriculture
NIFA serves as the federal hub for a massive, nationwide network of research, outreach, and educational programs. By partnering with land-grant universities and scientific organizations, the agency supports the global agricultural enterprise. Working at NIFA means you are contributing to a mission that supports science-based solutions for food, environment, and agricultural challenges.
Job Responsibilities
As a Program Assistant, your primary duty is to act as a central hub for information flow. You will be responsible for:
- Document Management: Preparing and maintaining official personnel and program-related documentation.
- Data Gathering: Summarizing information on grant program allocations and competitive awards.
- Public Outreach: Responding to inquiries from the public, state legislatures, and congressional offices regarding grant procedures.
- Information Dissemination: Reformatting complex technical data into accessible brochures, handouts, and web content.
- Coordination: Supporting travel arrangements and vouchers for program staff.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, you must meet several key criteria:
- You must be a U.S. citizen or national.
- You must be able to type a minimum of 40 words per minute.
- You must be able to clear a moderate-risk background investigation.
- Males born after December 31, 1959, must be registered with the Selective Service.
Comparison of Grade Requirements
| Grade Level | Specialized Experience Focus |
|---|---|
| GS-05 | Maintaining documents, tracking requests, and project summaries. |
| GS-06 | Includes GS-05 tasks plus travel/voucher preparation. |
| GS-07 | Includes GS-06 tasks plus gathering/analyzing data from varied sources. |
Salary and Benefits
The annual salary for this position ranges from $41,400 to $66,670, depending on experience and grade level. In addition to a steady federal salary, employees benefit from a robust benefits package, which typically includes health insurance, retirement contributions, and the potential for career growth within the federal system.
Application Tips
Applying for federal jobs can be complex. To maximize your chances:
- Watch the Length: Your resume cannot exceed two pages. This is a strict requirement.
- Customize Your Resume: Clearly list your hours worked per week, dates of employment, and specific tasks that align with the major duties listed above.
- Use the Provided Links: Utilize the USA Hire resources to prepare for any required assessments.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the closing date for this application? A: The announcement closes on November 4, 2026.
Q: Can I update my application after I have submitted it? A: Yes, during the open period of the announcement, you can log back into your USAJOBS account to edit your application materials.
Joining the USDA as a Program Assistant (OA) is an excellent way to start a stable and rewarding government career. If you are ready to apply your organizational skills to the mission of American agriculture, ensure your documentation is prepared, your resume meets the length requirements, and submit your application via the official USAJOBS platform before the deadline.
Why This Program Assistant Oa Job Matters
Launch your career in federal program support with the USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture—where your administrative talents help shape the future of science-based agriculture.
Program Assistant Oa Job Overview
The National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) is seeking a motivated Program Assistant (OA) to join its team in Kansas City, Missouri. This role serves as a vital coordination point for the documentation and information management supporting various grant-related programs. If you are organized, detail-oriented, and enjoy supporting a mission-driven team, this position offers a pathway to professional growth within the Department of Agriculture.
Requirements for Program Assistant Oa
- U.S. Citizenship or National status.
- Registration with the Selective Service (for males born after 12/31/1959).
- Ability to type 40 words per minute.
- Successful completion of a background investigation and/or fingerprint check.
- Enrollment in federal direct deposit for salary payments.
- Successful passage of an E-Verify check.
- Completion of a 1-year probationary period.
- Resume limit: Must not exceed two pages.
Preferred Qualifications for Program Assistant Oa
- Experience maintaining official documents and tracking project statuses.
- Ability to analyze data from multiple sources to create project summary reports.
- Experience in travel coordination and voucher preparation.
- Proficiency in reformatting technical information for brochures or web dissemination.
- Strong communication skills for responding to congressional or public inquiries.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- âś“Competitive federal salary and step increases.
- âś“Career development and potential for non-competitive promotions.
- âś“Opportunity for telework participation.
- âś“Comprehensive federal benefits package, including health, life, and retirement planning.
- âś“Structured training and support within the USDA environment.
đź’ˇ How to Apply Program Assistant Oa Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Program Assistant Oa Job
- Prepare a resume that specifically addresses your experience with document tracking, travel arrangements, and program support (maximum 2 pages).
- Click the apply link to begin the questionnaire and provide required documentation.
- Complete the required USA Hire Assessments if prompted after submission.
- Submit your application package by 11:59 PM (ET) on the closing date.
- Monitor your status via the USAJOBS portal to track your progress and any required actions.
đź’ˇ General Tips
- Ensure your resume strictly adheres to the two-page limit; submissions exceeding this will be disqualified.
- Clearly link your past experience to the duties listed in the job description to showcase your qualifications.
- Set aside 1-2 hours of quiet time to complete the USA Hire assessment if notified.
- Verify that your uploaded documents are not encrypted and follow the specified format requirements.
- Turn on email notifications in your USAJOBS profile so you do not miss crucial updates regarding your application status.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the pay range for this position?
The salary for the Program Assistant (OA) position is $41,400 to $66,670 per year.
Is this a remote role?
This position is located in Kansas City, Missouri. While it is telework-eligible, it is not listed as a fully remote position.
What happens if I submit a resume longer than two pages?
According to the announcement, applicants who submit a resume that exceeds two pages will be removed from consideration.