Advance Your Career: Supervisory Research Roles at the USDA
Are you a visionary scientist looking to lead high-impact research? The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Agricultural Research Service (ARS) is hiring a Supervisory Research Plant Pathologist or Supervisory Research Geneticist in Aberdeen, Idaho. This is a premier opportunity to steer research initiatives that ensure food security and improve agricultural technology across the nation.
Job Responsibilities
In this leadership position, you will be responsible for:
- Strategic Leadership: Managing human, fiscal, and physical resources to ensure the unit remains productive and innovative.
- Research Execution: Overseeing projects centered on breeding, pathology, and genetics of small grains and potatoes.
- Genetic Development: Developing genomic tools to identify and map genes for disease resistance and crop quality.
- Stakeholder Collaboration: Working closely with commodity groups, university researchers, and industry representatives to prioritize research needs.
Qualifications Comparison
| Feature | GS-14 Requirements | GS-15 Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Experience Level | 1 year at GS-13 level | 1 year at GS-14 level |
| Primary Focus | Project Leadership | Program & Team Management |
| Stakeholder Engagement | Internal/Scientific | National/Industry-wide |
| Research Output | Publication/Presentation | Strategic Prioritization |
Requirements
Candidates must possess advanced degrees in Plant Pathology or Genetics, meeting specific semester-hour requirements for botany, plant science, or related genetics coursework. Beyond technical expertise, you must demonstrate the ability to lead, mentor, and foster a collaborative environment.
Salary & Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $125,776 to $192,331 per year. Employees enjoy comprehensive federal benefits, including:
- Health and Life Insurance options.
- A robust retirement plan with agency-matched contributions.
- Generous paid leave accrual.
- Flexible scheduling and telework potential.
How to Apply
- Prepare: Ensure your resume highlights your leadership and specific technical research experience within the two-page limit.
- Document: Have your transcripts and professional credentials ready.
- Submit: Complete the assessment questionnaire on the USAJOBS platform before November 27, 2026.
This role is more than just a job; it is an opportunity to shape the future of agricultural science. If you have the scientific acumen and the leadership capabilities to advance our research mission, apply today.
Why This Supervisory Research Plant Pathologist/Supervisory Research Geneticist Job Matters
Lead cutting-edge agricultural research and influence the future of crop genetics at the USDA's Small Grains and Potato Germplasm Research Unit.
Supervisory Research Plant Pathologist/Supervisory Research Geneticist Job Overview
The USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS) is seeking a visionary Supervisory Research Plant Pathologist or Supervisory Research Geneticist to join our team in Aberdeen, Idaho. This leadership role is pivotal in advancing small grains and potato research, fostering scientific innovation, and managing a unit dedicated to solving critical agricultural challenges. You will oversee diverse research projects, manage human and fiscal resources, and engage with national stakeholders to improve crop productivity and disease resistance.
Requirements for Supervisory Research Plant Pathologist/Supervisory Research Geneticist
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Completion of a graduate degree in Plant Pathology, Genetics, or a closely related biological science.
- For GS-14: At least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-13 grade level.
- For GS-15: At least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-14 grade level.
- Demonstrated ability to manage research projects, lead teams, and secure funding or resources.
- Submission of a two-page maximum resume and necessary academic transcripts.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Moderate Risk security clearance.
Preferred Qualifications for Supervisory Research Plant Pathologist/Supervisory Research Geneticist
- Proven track record of publishing research in high-impact scientific journals.
- Experience in cross-functional team leadership and conflict resolution.
- Established networks within national commodity groups and agricultural industries.
- Experience developing genomic tools for crop germplasm enhancement.
- Strong communication skills for presenting research to diverse professional audiences.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal health, dental, and vision insurance programs.
- ✓Comprehensive retirement planning, including the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- ✓Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching.
- ✓Flexible work arrangements, including potential telework options up to four days per week.
- ✓Paid vacation and sick leave.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and career progression.
- ✓Relocation incentives may be authorized for qualified candidates.
💡 How to Apply Supervisory Research Plant Pathologist/Supervisory Research Geneticist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Supervisory Research Plant Pathologist/Supervisory Research Geneticist Job
- Create a profile on the official USAJOBS platform.
- Review the full vacancy announcement carefully.
- Prepare a resume that specifically addresses the major duties and does not exceed two pages.
- Gather and upload required supporting documents (transcripts, SF-50s, DD214 if applicable).
- Complete the online assessment questionnaire.
- Submit your application package before the closing date.
- Monitor your status via the online application dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume strictly adheres to the two-page limit; exceeding this will result in disqualification.
- Clearly link your work experience to the specific duties mentioned in the job posting.
- Include an abstract of your thesis or dissertation to bolster your qualification assessment.
- Verify that your uploaded documents are not in 'Adobe Portfolio' format.
- Apply well in advance of the deadline to avoid technical issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary mission of this unit?
The Small Grains and Potato Germplasm Research Unit focuses on enhancing crop production through genetic mapping, disease resistance screening, and the development of new cultivars tailored for western U.S. climates.
Is relocation assistance provided?
Relocation incentives may be authorized for the selected candidate, subject to final determination by the hiring official at the time of the job offer.
Are there opportunities for remote work?
While this position is based in Aberdeen, Idaho, it is eligible for telework up to four days per week, depending on current agency policy and duties.
Job from Agricultural Research Service
The Agricultural Research Service is the USDA’s internal scientific powerhouse. We bridge the gap from field to table, finding innovative solutions to complex agricultural problems. By joining the Small Grains and Potato Germplasm Research Unit, you become part of a legacy of scientific excellence dedicated to the resilience of American agriculture.