Launch Your Data Science Career with the USDA FSIS

In an era driven by information, the role of a Data Scientist has never been more critical to the function of our federal agencies. The USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is currently seeking talented, analytical minds to join their Data Analytics and Innovation Staff. If you are passionate about using data to protect public health and streamline complex operations, this position offers an unparalleled opportunity to make a tangible impact.

Job Responsibilities

As a Data Scientist, your day-to-day work will be both varied and impactful. You will be responsible for:

Developing algorithms to solve complex public health challenges.
Cleaning and preprocessing massive, messy datasets to ensure integrity.
Performing deep-dive statistical analysis and trend identification.
Creating high-impact data visualizations for key stakeholders.
Documenting data requirements to ensure clarity in collaborative projects.

Core Competencies Comparison

Competency	Relevance to FSIS
Statistical Reasoning	High (Fundamental for trend analysis)
Analytical Programming	High (Core for Python/R/SQL use)
Problem Solving	Medium-High (Required for risk mitigation)
Interpersonal Skills	Medium (Crucial for cross-team collaboration)

Requirements

To be considered, you must demonstrate a foundation in data science. You need either one year of specialized experience equivalent to a GS-07, or a qualifying master's degree (or equivalent graduate study) in a field like mathematics, statistics, or computer science. Precise documentation of your coding experience in Python, R, SAS, or SQL is essential to show your ability to clean and analyze data efficiently.

Salary Overview

The compensation for this position is set between $62,223 and $89,470 annually. This range reflects the critical nature of the work and the professional expertise required to perform advanced data modeling and risk assessment within a regulatory environment.

Benefits

Employees at the USDA enjoy a suite of federal benefits. Beyond standard health and retirement plans, this role offers specific advantages, including:

Public Service Loan Forgiveness: Potential for federal student loan relief.
Annual Leave Accrual: Options for creditable service based on your background.
Flexibility: Telework eligibility helps balance your professional and personal life.

Application Tips

Respect the Constraints: The two-page resume limit is a hard requirement. Candidates who exceed this limit will be automatically disqualified.
Customize Your Narrative: Use the language from the "Major Duties" section in your resume to ensure you hit the keywords for the automated screening systems.
Submit Early: Do not wait until the final hours to apply. Technical issues or document formatting errors can derail your submission.

This role is more than just a job; it is a chance to use your technical skills to serve the public interest. By joining the USDA FSIS team, you will contribute directly to the safety of the food on every American table. Apply today to start your journey.

Why This Data Scientist Job Matters

Transform public health data into meaningful insights at the USDA's Food Safety and Inspection Service. Shape the future of food safety through advanced analytics and innovation.

Data Scientist Job Overview

The Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is seeking a skilled Data Scientist to join the Office of Planning, Analysis, and Risk Management (OPARM). In this role, you will be part of a centralized analytics team dedicated to integrating and analyzing complex relational data. Your work will directly support critical decision-making, policy development, risk management, and strategic planning initiatives that ensure the safety of the nation's meat, poultry, and processed egg supply.

Requirements for Data Scientist

Must be a U.S. Citizen.
Must meet all qualifications by the closing date of the announcement.
Possess one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-07 level in the federal service or equivalent private sector experience.
Experience must include writing algorithms (Python, R, SAS, or SQL) and cleaning/transforming data.
Alternatively, hold a master's degree or two years of progressively higher-level graduate education in a relevant field.
Combination of graduate-level education and specialized experience is acceptable if total percentages equal 100%.
Must submit a resume not exceeding two pages.
Must provide academic transcripts.

Preferred Qualifications for Data Scientist

Strong proficiency in relational database management and data extraction.
Advanced experience in developing data visualizations for executive-level decision support.
Proven ability to translate complex data science requirements into actionable business documentation.
Expertise in conducting statistical trend analysis and predictive modeling.
Collaborative mindset with experience working alongside subject matter experts.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Program eligibility.
✓Creditable Service for Annual Leave Accrual (CSALA).
✓Telework opportunities.
✓Comprehensive federal health, retirement, and insurance benefits.
✓Career development and potential for non-competitive promotion.

💡 How to Apply Data Scientist Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Data Scientist Job

Review the full job announcement on USAJOBS carefully.
Prepare a resume that is strictly limited to two pages.
Gather all academic transcripts and, if applicable, military/CTAP documentation.
Click the Apply Online button and complete the required questionnaires.
Upload all documents in permitted formats (PDF, Word, TXT, etc.).
Monitor email for potential USA Hire assessment invitations.
Submit your application package before 11:59 PM ET on the closing date.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume clearly connects your work history to the specific major duties listed in the announcement.
Do not exceed the two-page limit for your resume, as this will lead to disqualification.
Double-check your application for accurate information; providing false data may lead to removal from consideration.
Set aside at least three hours for the USA Hire assessment if prompted.
Verify that your uploaded documents have successfully transferred to the agency's internal system.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I work remotely?

This position is eligible for telework, but it is not a fully remote position. You will be based in either Fort Collins, CO, or Urbandale, IA.

What happens after I apply?

Your application will be evaluated for eligibility and qualifications. If you are determined to be in the 'best qualified' category, you may be referred to the selecting official for further review or an interview.

Is a security clearance required?

This position requires a Moderate Risk (MR) suitability determination and is subject to continuous vetting processes.

What is the probationary period?

You will be required to serve a one-year probationary period to evaluate your fitness and contributions to the agency’s mission.

Can I update my application after submission?

Yes, you can edit your application via your USAJOBS account while the vacancy remains open.

Job from Food Safety And Inspection Service

The Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is the public health regulatory agency within the USDA responsible for ensuring that the nation's supply of meat, poultry, and processed eggs is safe, wholesome, and correctly labeled and packaged. The OPARM team, where this role is housed, acts as the central hub for analytics, providing the strategic insights needed to guide food safety policy and risk management across the country.