Launch Your Career: Food Technologist at the USDA
Are you looking for a career that combines scientific rigor with public service? The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is currently hiring for a Food Technologist position within the Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS). This role is perfect for professionals dedicated to maintaining the high quality and integrity of American agricultural products.
About the Agricultural Marketing Service
The Science and Technology Program (S&T) under the AMS works to facilitate the marketing and trade of U.S. agricultural commodities. By providing certification, analytical, and scientific services, the agency ensures that goods meet both domestic and international standards. Working here means joining a team that values public health, safety, and economic stability.
Job Responsibilities
As a Food Technologist, your primary goal is to ensure that Quality Management Systems (QMS) remain fit-for-purpose. Key responsibilities include:
- Collaborating with laboratory staff and management to maintain operational standards.
- Investigating adverse quality trends and conducting root cause analysis.
- Managing and coordinating internal audits and management reviews.
- Ensuring all data and operational records remain accurate and defensible.
- Communicating technical findings clearly to leadership to guide improvements.
Requirements
To qualify for this position, applicants must meet specific educational and professional criteria:
- Education: A degree in food technology, microbiology, biology, chemistry, physics, or a related science is required. Your transcripts must reflect at least 30 semester hours in biological/physical sciences and 20 hours specifically in food technology.
- Experience: One year of specialized experience at the GS-9 level is required for GS-11 consideration.
- Assessment: Completion of the USA Hire competency-based assessment is mandatory.
Quick Qualification Comparison
| Qualification | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Education | Relevant Science Degree |
| Specialized Experience | 1 Year at GS-9 level |
| Assessment | USA Hire Required |
| Residency | U.S. Citizenship |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $74,678 to $99,252 per year. Beyond the paycheck, the federal government provides a comprehensive benefits package that supports your long-term success, including:
- Comprehensive health and life insurance.
- Generous retirement contributions via FERS and TSP.
- Flexible leave policies.
- Opportunities for telework.
Application Tips
- Respect the Limit: Keep your resume to two pages or less.
- Documentation: Ensure all transcripts clearly display your name and course history.
- Stay Alert: Watch your email for the USA Hire assessment link; you only have a short window to complete it.
- Detail Everything: Clearly outline your work history and specific experience with ISO standards in your resume.
If you have a passion for food science and want to contribute to the nation’s agricultural infrastructure, this USDA position offers a unique and impactful career path. Ensure your application is thorough, follow the instructions precisely, and take the first step toward a rewarding federal service career.
Why This Food Technologist Job Matters
Take your food science career to the next level with the USDA. Play a vital role in ensuring quality and integrity in America's agricultural commodities.
Food Technologist Job Overview
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is seeking a motivated Food Technologist to join the Agricultural Marketing Service. In this role, you will help protect the quality and wholesomeness of agricultural products, supporting both domestic and global trade. You will work closely with laboratory staff and management to maintain rigorous quality management systems and ensure data integrity.
Requirements for Food Technologist
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Must meet Time-in-Grade requirements for internal applicants (52 weeks at the next lower grade).
- Bachelor's degree in food technology, dairy technology, microbiology, biology, chemistry, physics, or a closely related biological/physical science field.
- Minimum of 30 semester hours in basic biological and physical sciences.
- Minimum of 20 semester hours in food technology subjects or directly applicable fields.
- Completion of the online USA Hire assessment.
- Must adhere to a 1-year probationary period.
Preferred Qualifications for Food Technologist
- Experience administering Quality Management Systems such as ISO 9001:2015, ISO 17025:2017, or ISO 19011:2018.
- Proficiency in performing root cause analysis and implementing corrective action processes.
- Demonstrated ability to manage quality data and verify compliance with regulatory standards.
- Three years of progressively higher-level graduate education leading to a Ph.D. in a relevant scientific field.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive health insurance options
- ✓Retirement planning through the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS)
- ✓Participation in the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and career growth
- ✓Paid federal holidays, vacation, and sick leave
- ✓Telework eligibility
💡 How to Apply Food Technologist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Food Technologist Job
- Create a profile on the official federal employment portal.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less.
- Apply online by submitting your resume, transcripts, and required questionnaires.
- Complete the mandatory USA Hire competency-based assessments within the assigned window.
- Monitor your application status through the online portal to receive updates.
💡 General Tips
- Customize your resume to specifically reflect the major duties mentioned in the announcement.
- Ensure your resume includes supervisors' phone numbers and indicates whether they may be contacted.
- Do not exceed the two-page limit for your resume, as longer documents will disqualify you.
- Double-check that all uploaded transcripts are legible and include your name and course information.
- Set aside 1-2 hours to complete the USA Hire assessment as soon as you receive the link.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I submit a resume longer than two pages?
No. The application guidelines strictly state that a resume exceeding two pages will result in automatic removal from consideration.
What is the USA Hire assessment?
It is a mandatory, competency-based assessment required for this role. You will receive a unique link via email after submitting your initial application.
What is the probationary period?
New hires must complete a 1-year probationary period to evaluate performance and suitability.
Can I apply if I am not a federal employee?
Yes, this position is open to various hiring paths, including special authorities.