Launch Your Federal Career as a Data Scientist with the USDA
Are you looking to apply your technical expertise to projects that truly matter? The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is currently seeking a Data Scientist to join the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS). This is a unique opportunity to influence national agricultural policy through rigorous data analysis, geospatial modeling, and modern software development.
Job Responsibilities
As a Data Scientist, your day-to-day will be dynamic and impactful. You will be responsible for:
- Data Lifecycle Management: Overseeing data from ingestion and storage to final reporting.
- Technical Development: Using Python, SQL, and R to conduct advanced statistical analyses.
- Visualization: Creating interactive dashboards using Power BI, Tableau, and ESRI to translate data into policy-ready insights.
- Consultation: Serving as a technical advisor for enterprise-level data challenges.
Requirements
To be considered for this GS-13 position, applicants must meet strict criteria:
- Education: A degree in a relevant field such as Mathematics, Statistics, or Computer Science.
- Experience: One year of specialized experience at the GS-12 level involving complex data projects.
- Documentation: A resume (maximum of two pages) that details your specific work experience and accomplishments.
Comparison of Potential Work Locations
| Location | Regional Focus | Why Consider It? |
|---|---|---|
| Fort Collins, CO | Research/Agricultural Hub | Proximity to national research labs |
| Minneapolis, MN | Logistics/Trade Analysis | Major urban economic center |
| Raleigh, NC | Innovation/Tech Corridor | Close to top-tier research universities |
Salary Overview
This position is categorized under the GS-13 pay scale, offering a highly competitive annual salary ranging from $106,437 to $138,370, depending on duty location and locality pay adjustments.
Benefits
Federal employees enjoy a robust benefits package, including:
- Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- Excellent health and life insurance options.
- Flexible telework arrangements.
- Comprehensive leave policies.
Application Tips
- Customize Your Resume: Do not just list your duties; quantify your impact.
- Mind the Window: Once you submit, watch your email closely for the USA Hire assessment link.
- Follow Format Rules: Keep your resume to exactly two pages to ensure it is reviewed.
If you are a dedicated data professional looking to serve the public interest, the USDA APHIS role is an outstanding path for your career. Prepare your application materials today and help us safeguard the future of U.S. agriculture.
Why This Data Scientist Job Matters
Transform agricultural policy through advanced analytics as a Data Scientist with the USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service.
Data Scientist Job Overview
The USDA's Marketing and Regulatory Programs (MRP) is seeking a skilled Data Scientist to serve as a technical expert for mission-critical operations. In this role, you will bridge the gap between complex data and actionable policy, managing geospatial and non-geospatial datasets to support the health and protection of American agriculture. You will be responsible for the full data lifecycle—from ingestion and modeling to visualization and strategic reporting—ensuring that our agency remains at the forefront of data-driven decision-making.
Requirements for Data Scientist
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Must meet time-in-grade requirements if currently a federal employee.
- Hold a degree in mathematics, statistics, computer science, or data science.
- One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-12 level.
- Ability to pass a Moderate Risk background check.
- Submission of a resume not exceeding two pages.
- Completion of the USA Hire Competency Based Assessments.
Preferred Qualifications for Data Scientist
- Proven experience in developing standards for emerging data analytics technologies.
- Expertise in designing complex data flows for enterprise-level decision support.
- Demonstrated ability to communicate technical data insights to non-technical stakeholders.
- Proficiency in geospatial data management and interactive visualization design.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal health, vision, and dental insurance programs.
- ✓Comprehensive federal retirement plan including pension and TSP.
- ✓Paid federal holidays and generous leave accrual.
- ✓Telework eligibility to support work-life balance.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and career advancement.
💡 How to Apply Data Scientist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Data Scientist Job
- Create a profile on the official USAJOBS portal.
- Prepare a focused two-page resume highlighting your data science achievements.
- Submit your online application and Occupational Questionnaire.
- Complete the required USA Hire Competency Based Assessments within 48 hours of notification.
- Monitor your application status through your USAJOBS account dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Your resume must explicitly map your experience to the duties listed in the job announcement.
- Review the USA Hire practice assessments available on the OPM website before your window opens.
- Ensure your document uploads are under 5MB and use standard formats like PDF or Word.
- Set up email notifications in USAJOBS so you don't miss assessment links or status updates.
- Double-check that your resume does not exceed the two-page limit to avoid disqualification.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use education to substitute for the GS-13 experience requirement?
No, for the GS-13 grade level, professional experience is required, and education cannot be used as a substitute.
What is the expected timeline for a final job offer?
The agency aims to issue final job offers approximately 40 days after the closing date of the job announcement.
What is the risk level of this position?
This is a Moderate Risk (MR) position requiring background suitability checks.
Can I work remotely?
The position is telework-eligible, though not fully remote.
Job from Animal And Plant Health Inspection Service
The Marketing and Regulatory Programs (MRP) division within the USDA plays a vital role in ensuring the health and care of animals and plants across the United States. As an emergency response agency, APHIS operates on both domestic and global scales, protecting the agricultural industry and supporting the American food supply. Working here means joining a team dedicated to public service, integrity, and scientific excellence.