The Agricultural Specialist (mid-level specialist) is responsible for representing the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) in Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi and Malawi. The incumbent monitors, analyzes, and prepares highly specialized reports on agricultural, marketing and trade policy developments for assigned agricultural commodities. Responsibilities also include working with U.S. and host country government agencies and industries to resolve trade complaints, issues of non-compliance with host country import regulations, and administering market development programs. The incumbent develops and maintains key professional and social relationships (mid-to-high levels) to exchange information and gain cooperation on substantive trade and agricultural policy matters.

Qualifications and Evaluations

EXPERIENCE: 

• Minimum five years of work experience in one or more fields of agricultural economics, agricultural policy, commodity trade, and marketing analysis/research that includes extensive analysis and report writing on complex subjects.

JOB KNOWLEDGE:

Detailed knowledge of FAS goals, programs, reporting requirements and procedures, and of U.S. agricultural policies and trading practices followed by American exporters. Thorough knowledge of agricultural practices, market conditions, and government policies in the host country. Knowledge of host government structure and responsibilities of various Ministries and offices, congressional and legislative processes as it relates to economic, trade, and agricultural policy matters is required. Significant knowledge of international agreements relating to agricultural policy, and a strong understanding of agricultural economic supply/demand theories and concepts.

Education Requirements:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Agricultural Economics, Food and Agricultural Marketing, Agriculture, Agribusiness, or International Trade.

Evaluations:

LANGUAGE: English Level IV (Fluent, Speaking/Reading/Writing is required (This may be tested).

SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

Good working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) to create documents and spreadsheets, maintain and update databases, and develop presentations. Use of FAS specialized software and data analysis programs. Must be knowledgeable in analyzing agricultural production, global agricultural trade concepts, and economic supply/demand concepts. Required to analyze and apply complex statistical data and maintain data sets for accurate commodity and trade reporting. Drafts highly specialized reports on markets and trade policy, Must have excellent time management skills to cope with the diversity of work and deadlines. Ability to work effectively with government, public, and private individuals to obtain information and resolve trade issues.

How to Apply

• All candidates must be able to obtain and hold a Public Trust clearance.
• To apply for this position click the “Submit Application” button.  For more information on how to apply visit the Mission internet site.

Required Documents:

• In order to qualify based on education, you MUST submit the requested diploma and / or transcripts as verification of educational requirement by the closing date of this announcement. If you fail to provide requested information, or the information you submit is insufficient to verify your eligibility, you will not be considered for this position.
• Copy of Orders/Assignment Notification (or equivalent)
• Residency and/or Work Permit
• Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Economics, Food and Agricultural Marketing, Agriculture, Agribusiness, or International Trade
• Curriculum-vitae (cv)
• DD-214 – Member Copy 4, Letter from Veterans’ Affairs, or other supporting documentation (if applicable)
• SF-50 (if applicable)
• Next Steps:
• Applicants who are invited to take a language or skills test, or who are selected for an interview will be contacted via email.
• For further information – the complete position description listing all of the duties, responsibilities, required qualifications, etc. may be obtained by contacting the Human Resources Office.

Thank you for your application and your interest in working at the U.S. Mission in Nairobi, Kenya.

Qualifications:

• All applicants under consideration will be required to pass medical and security certifications.

Other Information:

HIRING PREFERENCE SELECTION PROCESS:  Applicants in the following hiring preference categories are extended a hiring preference in the order listed below.  Therefore, it is essential that these applicants accurately describe their status on the application. Failure to do so may result in a determination that the applicant is not eligible for a hiring preference.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY (EEO): The U.S. Mission provides equal opportunity and fair and equitable treatment in employment to all people without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, political affiliation, marital status, or sexual orientation