Serves as a cotton classer responsible for the technical supervision of cotton classification services performed by the Cotton Program. Other responsibilities will consist of installing mechanical and electrical components on High Volume Instruments (HVI's), supervising the evaluation of HVI's, supervising and evaluating the performance of operating software for the HVI's, supervising shift operations and subordinates, and other assignments which are related to cotton classification programs.
Applicants must meet all qualifications and eligibility requirements by the closing date of the announcement including time-in-grade restrictions, specialized experience and/or education, as defined below. TIME-IN-GRADE: Current federal employees applying for a promotion opportunity must meet time-in-grade (TIG) requirement of 52 weeks of service at the next lower grade level in the normal line of progression for the position being filled. FOR THE GS-12 LEVEL: Applicants must have one year of specialized experience (equivalent to the GS-11 level) that may have been obtained in the private or public (local, county, state, Federal) sectors which demonstrates: Independent experience leading, directing, and supervising staff of permanent and seasonal employees working multiple shifts. Experience applying Cotton Classing standards, administering a Quality Management Program, conducting High Volume Instrument grading, data analysis, equipment and building maintenance. Experience overseeing operations and provides communication and facilitating the priorities, mission, and vision of the organization. Experience in written and oral communication on technical matters, operational, and personnel matters to large and small groups, and to individuals. 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.
The duties may include, but are not limited to:
Determines the appropriate grade and extraneous matter of samples submitted for classification.
Participates in maintaining nationwide uniformity in interpretation and application of official standards and regulations.
Reviews classifications originally made by the field classing offices and appealed to the Quality Assurance Branch.
Shares limited responsibility for direct and indirect technical and administrative supervision of the personnel assigned to the branch.
Performs original classification of samples of special domestic and foreign growth cotton submitted by members of the cotton industry and others.
Performs classification of cotton futures.
Visits field classing offices to make appraisals of the classification work, investigates complaints and works out solutions or makes appropriate recommendations to the Chief, Quality Assurance Branch
Supervises the evaluation of new HVI' s being delivered against a procurement contact.
Performs and assists on special projects such as preparing presentations and briefing papers on cotton quality issues.