The incumbent will serve as an International Trade Specialist for the Office of TradeMissions and Shows. The Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) works to improve foreign market access for U.S. products, build new markets, improve the competitive position of U.S. agriculture in the global marketplace.

Duties

The duties may include, but are not limited to: Develops, plans, and conducts in-depth analysis of complex issues which contribute to the accomplishment of the agency mission to expand and maintain international market opportunities for U.S. agriculture. Conducts assessments and develops interpretation of international trade issues, conditions, or events in support of decision-making, policy formulation, or program development by FAS and USDA. Provides assistance to businesses seeking information relative to the export of commodities to foreign countries, addressing industry and political considerations. Assures compliance with policy, philosophy, and mission requirements, and responds effectively to changing economic and political situations.

Requirements

• You must be a US Citizen or US National.
• Males born after 12/31/1959 must be Selective Service registered or exempt.
• Subject to satisfactory adjudication of background investigation and/or fingerprint check.
• Successful completion of one year probationary period, unless previously served.
• Direct Deposit: Per Public Law 104-134 all Federal employees are required to have federal payments made by direct deposit to their financial institution.
• Testing Designated Position: Selectee must submit to a urinalysis to screen for illegal drug use prior to appointment and random testing thereafter. Final appointment and continued employment is conditional on negative results for illegal drug use.
• Selectee must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
• Successfully pass the E-Verify employment verification check. To learn more about E-Verify, including your rights and responsibilities, visit https://www.e-verify.gov/.
• This position is a bargaining with American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME), Local 3976.

Qualifications

Applicants must meet all qualifications and eligibility requirements by the closing date of the announcement, including specialized experience and/or education, as defined below. FOR THE GS-13 LEVEL: Applicants must have one year of specialized experience (equivalent to the GS-12 level) that may have been obtained in the private or public (local, county, state, Federal) sectors which demonstrates: Advance knowledge of practices of internal program management to implement, coordinate, and evaluate agricultural marketing programs and trade promotion programs. Advanced knowledge and skill sufficient to provide technical leadership, staff coordination, and consultation for the assigned area, including formulating guidelines, implementing new developments, and providing policy interpretation and recommendations. Advanced knowledge of pertinent U.S. agricultural trade legislation, regulations, and international agreements. Advanced knowledge and skill to analyze international trade promotion programs, evaluation of proposals and budgets, develop recommendations, and oversight of U.S. agricultural trade promotion programs and events. Broad experience and expertise in analyzing, investigating, and resolving complex,unique, and sensitive international problems and issues, to recommend guidance andpolicy. Expertise and skill to in developing relationships, coordinating with internal and external stakeholders, and engagement with USDA senior leadership. Strong proficiency with computer and software tools, especially Microsoft Office Suite, with an understanding of their applicability. Note: There is no education substitution for this grade level. Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional, philanthropic, religious, spiritual, community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.

Education

This position does not have an education qualification requirement.

Contacts

• Address Foreign Agricultural Service Human Capital Management Division 1400 Independence Avenue, SW Washington, DC 20250 US
• Name: Paige Payne
• Phone: 202-572-5970
• Email: [email protected]