The Specialty Crops Inspection (SCI) Division is responsible for developing U.S. grade standards and providing inspection, grading, certification, and audit-based services nation-wide on a user-fee basis for fresh and processed fruits and vegetables and related products. In this regional Branch Chief position, you will be responsible for overseeing federal inspection management operations of the Eastern Region Federal Inspection Operations Branch.
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-14 LEVEL: Applicants must have one year of specialized experience (equivalent to the GS-13 level) that may have been obtained in the private or public (local, county, state, Federal) sectors which demonstrates: Experience independently applying the policies and procedures of a complex national program related to agricultural products. Experience developing and using quality management systems. Experience demonstrating knowledge of fruits, vegetables, and specialty products in the application of grade standards, certification practices, and pertinent regulations of the fruit and vegetable industry. Experience providing leadership, coordination, and direction of an agricultural focused program. 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:
Plans, formulates, organizes, directs, coordinates and controls the Divisions region-wide inspection program to ensure the accuracy and uniformity of the grading and inspection service.
Promotes and directs program operations within the region to ensure expeditious inspection service, uniform program operations, and accurate and consistent application of Federal standards.
Oversees the development of policies, procedures, and instructions for performing inspection and certification for fresh and processed fruits and vegetables and related products.
Notifies field personnel of revised policies and procedures; advises stakeholders on specific problems or new developments.
Serves as decision maker within the Region with regard to inspection and administrative matters.
Represents the Division in meetings with industry trade associations, advisory groups, and committees.
Exercises administrative and technical supervision over Region staff and Officers-in-Charge (OICs) of area offices.