Become an Entomologist with the USDA: A Vital Role in Animal Health
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) is currently looking for an expert Entomologist to join the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS). Located in Ames, Iowa, this position is at the forefront of protecting American agriculture and domestic animal health. If you have a background in biological sciences and a passion for vector control, this is a unique opportunity to contribute to national security.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will work within the National Veterinary Services Laboratories. Key responsibilities include:
- Definitive Identification: Identifying external parasites on domestic animals and wildlife.
- Surveillance Leadership: Directing the National Tick Surveillance Program report.
- Expert Consultation: Providing guidance on parasites and vector-borne diseases to field personnel.
- Curating Collections: Maintaining the program’s Parasite Reference Collection.
Requirements
To be eligible, candidates must meet specific criteria:
- Education: A degree in entomology or a biological science with at least 16 semester hours in entomology.
- Experience: One year of specialized experience at the GS-11 level or equivalent.
- Documentation: A two-page maximum resume is mandatory.
Comparison Table: Qualifications
| Qualification | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Academic Field | Entomology or Biological Sciences |
| Entomology Credits | 16 Semester Hours |
| Specialized Experience | 1 Year (GS-11 level) |
| Resume Length | Max 2 Pages |
Salary and Benefits
This GS-12 position offers a competitive salary range of $90,937 to $118,221 per year. Employees also benefit from federal health, leave, and retirement programs.
Application Tips
- Be Concise: Since the limit is two pages, focus on your most relevant achievements.
- Verify Documentation: Ensure all transcripts are legible and in English.
- Prepare for Assessments: If required, set aside 1-2 hours for the USA Hire assessments.
This role is an excellent fit for entomologists who want to apply their knowledge to large-scale public service. If you meet the qualifications, we encourage you to apply before the closing date.
Why This Entomologist Job Matters
Protect American agriculture by becoming a lead expert in parasite identification at the National Veterinary Services Laboratories.
Entomologist Job Overview
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is seeking a dedicated Entomologist to join the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) in Ames, Iowa. In this vital role, you will perform definitive identifications of external parasites affecting domestic and wild animals, contributing directly to national surveillance programs and foreign animal disease eradication efforts. This position is ideal for a specialist passionate about biological science and its application to animal health and economic security.
Requirements for Entomologist
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Degree in entomology or a related biological/physical science with at least 16 semester hours in entomology.
- Combination of education and experience equivalent to a major in the field.
- One year of specialized experience at the GS-11 level or equivalent.
- Ability to identify arthropod parasites and pests based on morphology, host association, and distribution.
- Capability to maintain, organize, and catalog scientific specimen collections.
- Completion of a one-year probationary period.
Preferred Qualifications for Entomologist
- Expertise in vector identification for foreign animal diseases.
- Experience in directing large-scale scientific programs, such as the National Tick Surveillance Program.
- Strong communication skills for consulting with university faculties and field personnel.
- Proven proficiency in conducting field investigations and literature reviews.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal government health and retirement benefits
- ✓Telework eligibility
- ✓Opportunities for professional development
- ✓Relocation incentives may be authorized
- ✓Supportive work environment dedicated to national health security
💡 How to Apply Entomologist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Entomologist Job
- Create a profile on the USAJOBS platform.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly limited to two pages.
- Upload required documentation, including college transcripts.
- Complete the online application and occupational questionnaire.
- Undergo USA Hire Competency Based Assessments if notified.
- Monitor application status through the USAJOBS dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume strictly under two pages to avoid immediate disqualification.
- Ensure your resume explicitly maps your experience to the duties mentioned in the announcement.
- Provide contact information and names for all supervisors listed in your employment history.
- Use the USA Hire practice resources to prepare for competency assessments.
- Set up automatic notifications in your USAJOBS account to track status changes in real-time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the appointment type for this role?
This is a term appointment for an initial period of 13 months, which may be extended up to a total of 10 years.
Is a security clearance required?
No security clearance is required, though the position is designated as a Moderate Risk (MR) role.
Can I use volunteer work to qualify?
Yes, relevant volunteer work, including service with organizations like AmeriCorps or the Peace Corps, is accepted.
Job from Animal And Plant Health Inspection Service
APHIS is an emergency response agency committed to facilitating the trade of U.S. agricultural products while protecting the health and care of animals and plants. By working with APHIS, you join a team of professionals dedicated to maintaining the integrity of U.S. markets and the safety of our ecosystem.