Agriculturist; Containment Scientist​/Agriculturist; Senior Regulatory Policy Specialist

Job Summary

This position will serve as an Agriculturist (Containment Scientist) or Agriculturist (Senior Regulatory Policy Specialist) who will lead implementation and adhere to Plant Protection and Quarantine policies for permitting and evaluating containment of regulated pests and organisms, provider of policy and program support to plant health programs.

Applicants must meet all qualifications and eligibility requirements by the closing date of the announcement, including specialized experience and/or education, as defined below. BASIC REQUIREMENT:
Degree: biological sciences, agriculture, natural resource management, chemistry, or related disciplines appropriate to the position. OR Combination of education and experience: post high school education with courses equivalent to a major, which is defined as 24 semester/36 quarter hours, in the biological sciences, agriculture, natural resources management, chemistry or related disciplines appropriate to the position, PLUS appropriate experience or additional course work.

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:
Accomplished in developing, adjusting, and applying regulatory and operational policies, guidelines, and procedures. Experience supporting report development and updating procedures based on knowledge of regulatory procedures, laws, and compliance requirements. Knowledge of federal statutes, regulations, and agency policies governing plant protection, quarantine, and containment. Experience providing recommendations on containment measures for plant pests or pathogens in laboratories, greenhouses, or field environments.

Note:

There is no education substitution for this grade level. TRANSCRIPTS are required if:
This position requires specific coursework or a degree in a specific field to be basically qualified. You are qualifying for the position based on education. You are qualifying for this position based on a combination of experience and education. This education must have been successfully completed and obtained from an accredited school, college, or university. Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, Ameri Corps) 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.

• Reviews draft permits and associated documents to ensure that permit conditions are appropriate and sufficient to prevent the escape of regulated articles.
• Reviews and evaluates scientific documents, construction proposals, standard operating procedures and inspection reports.
• Consults and advises other Animal Plant Health Inspection Service officials concerning quarantine requirements.
• Recommends changes in program policy and procedures.
• Informs Plant Protection and Quarantine officials of individual/team activities results that may impact the planning, development, and administration of other agency programs.

Position

Start Date:

06/30/2026

Position Close Date: 07/07/2026

Salary Offered: 111147 - 154280 USD Per Year