The incumbent serves as Director of the Market and Trade Economics Division (MTED). This Division is responsible for a program of economic research, market intelligence gathering, analysis, and data development and dissemination focused on commodity markets and trade in food and agricultural products. Data indicators, forecasts, and special studies are disseminated to policy makers, program officials, and the public in peer-reviewed publications, briefings, and electronic products.

Duties

The duties and responsibilities of this Senior Science and Technology Service (SSTS) position include, but are not limited to: Formulate current and long-range policies and programs to carry out the Division's economic research, market monitoring and analysis, data and statistical indicators, and staff and policy analysis of domestic and international markets and trade. Provides intellectual leadership by developing, clearly articulating, and implementing to Agency and Division management and staff a vision to fill important knowledge gaps while addressing Agency and USDA priorities. Strives for a Division research program that directly addresses policy relevant issues, focuses on the contributions that economics can make to those issues' illumination, and makes the best use of ERS' comparative advantages. Assembles research, leads and partners with colleagues to eliminate barriers that better support USDA's and technological efforts. Creates, develops and recommends economic policies and strategic solutions for breakthroughs in economic science problems defined as highly complex or unsolvable. Manages timely and policy-relevant research in collaboration with associates to inform and enhance decision-making by senior officials for the understanding of the contributions of various USDA programs. Directs the overall administration of MTED programs and coordinates broad phases of MTED policy and program execution. The major programs of MTED are Global market, International trade policy, Domestic policies and agricultural market, Market Outlook and Forecasting, Data, and Cross Division Analysis.

Requirements

• Veterans Preference is applicable in the Senior Science and Technology Service (SSTS).
• A 1-year probationary period may be required.
• You must upload a response to the five criterion questions also referred to as the SSTS Professional Recognition Documentation.
• Background Investigation required/and or security investigation required.
• U.S. citizens, nationals or those who owe allegiance to the US are eligible.
• A Ph.D. is required for appointment to SSTS.

Qualifications

You must: - Have conducted and published outstanding research in the field of economic and social science theory and methods of research, and their application to complex problems as determined by a Qualifications Assessment Board; - Have earned a doctoral level degree at an institution of higher education [as defined in section 101 of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1001)]; - Have national or international recognition as an authority and provide leadership in an area of widespread scientific interest and investigation; and - Meet the qualification standards prescribed by the Office of Personnel Management for appointment to a position at the GS-15 level of the General Schedule.

Education

A Ph.D. in Economics (economics, that included at least 21 semester hours in economics and 3 semester hours in statistics, accounting, or calculus) or closely related discipline is required.

Contacts

• Address Economic Research Service 355 E. Street, SW Washington, DC 20024 US
• Name: Rhonda Pratt
• Phone: 202-260-8724
• Email: [email protected]