Chief Meteorologist
What you'd do
The position of Chief Meteorologist is in the Office of the Chief Economist (OCE), U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). The World Agricultural Outlook Board (WAOB) is under the OCE. The mission of WAOB is to coordinate the agricultural commodity information system of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Weather being an important factor in agricultural production, the Board serves as USDA's focal point for weather and climate information.
Major duties
Provides technical leadership in the planning, coordinating, analysis and review of the weather and climate programs of the Department. Serves as the principal USDA scientist and advisor on atmospheric sciences. As such, analyzes weather and atmospheric conditions and the implication for agricultural production, and performs studies and other tasks for the Department. Provides advice and counsel to the Secretary and staff on the development of climate and weather programs to serve nationwide needs of the agricultural community and on the application of meteorological technology to other agricultural programs. Provides major technical guidance and input to the role of the USDA in the development of national atmospheric science programs and technical coordination with other agencies. Provides technical advice and guidance to the Chairperson of the WAOB and other staff specialists on the weather and atmospheric science implications for U.S. and global crop and livestock production. Represents the U.S. Government in planning and developing programs and policies dealing with scientific and technical matters related to climate and weather within National and International organizations.
What you need to qualify
The application process used to recruit for this position is RESUME-ONLY. DO NOT submit separate Technical Qualifications in lieu of a resume. Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution. Candidates will not be hired based on their race, sex, color, religion, or national origin. To apply for this position, you need only submit a resume which CANNOT exceed TWO (2) pages using 0.8-inch margins and an 11-point font. Any resume that exceeds the maximum length of two (2) pages will be removed from consideration. Your resume should include examples of experience, education, and accomplishments applicable to the qualification(s). If your resume does not reflect demonstrated evidence of these qualifications, you may not receive consideration for the position. Failure to meet the basic qualification requirement and address all Technical Qualification factors within your resume will result in your application being disqualified. There is NO requirement to prepare a narrative statement specifically addressing the Technical Qualifications (TQs). TECHNICAL QUALIFICATIONS (TQs): Please give examples and explain the complexity of the knowledge possessed and the sensitivity of the issue you handled. The Mandatory Technical Qualifications are listed below. Typically, experience of this nature will have been gained at or above the GS-14/15 grade level in the federal service or its equivalent in the private sector. Applicants must clearly demonstrate in their resume that they meet the following technical qualification(s). Failure to meet basic qualification requirements and to submit narratives for the Mandatory Technical Qualification factors will automatically disqualify an applicant. Describe your demonstrated technical expertise in agricultural meteorology and weather-related programs that support domestic or international agriculture. Include examples of developing, improving, or applying meteorological products, models, tools, or services that enhanced decision-making, operational effectiveness, or scientific outcomes. Describe your role in collaborating with partners across government, academia, or the private sector to achieve program objectives. Describe your experience translating complex meteorological analyses, forecasts, or scientific information into clear, actionable guidance for senior leaders, policymakers, emergency managers, or other non-technical audiences. Provide examples of communicating under time-sensitive conditions and explain how your analyses supported operational, policy, or resource decisions. Describe your technical knowledge of the impacts of weather and climate on agricultural systems. Include examples of evaluating meteorological risks affecting crops, livestock, rangelands, water resources, or agricultural markets. Discuss your experience producing scientifically sound assessments, forecasts, or decision-support products that informed agricultural risk management or operational planning. Time in grade requirements does not apply to SL positions. 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. Applicants must meet all qualifications and eligibility (including educational) requirements by the closing date of the announcement.
Before you apply
Federal applications are different: your resume should be 3–5 pages and mirror the language of this announcement. Read our federal resume guide first — it's the #1 reason qualified people get screened out.
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