Program Assistant

• The duties described are for the full-performance level. At developmental grade levels assignments will be of more limited scope performed with less independence and limited complexity.
• The duties may include but are not limited to:
• Analyzes program-related information and data for the Biotechnology Risk Analysis Programs (BRAP) to identify trends validate accuracy and prepare findings for reports and briefings.
• Develops administrative and automated support procedures by gathering organizing and evaluating information to improve consistency transparency and workflow effectiveness.
• Reviews monthly accounting and financial transaction reports to identify discrepancies compile supporting documentation and submit corrected information to Resource Management Services.
• Prepares graphic materials visual aids and assembled program documents for meetings conferences and briefings ensuring accuracy clarity and timely availability.
• Researches and synthesizes information from files documents and databases to design produce and edit correspondence reports publications regulatory documents and other program materials.
• Maintains clerical administrative and technical processes for the unit recommending and implementing procedural improvements to support operational efficiency and quality assurance.
• Responds to internal and external inquiries by providing technical information resolving routine issues and directing callers to appropriate staff with needed background materials.
• Prepares correspondence memoranda personnel documents time and attendance reports travel actions and procurement requests and monitors their progression through agency processing channels.

• You must be a US Citizen or US National.
• Individuals who were born male after 12/31/1959 must be Selective Service registered or exempt.
• Subject to satisfactory adjudication of background investigation and/or fingerprint check.
• Successful completion of one-year probationary period unless previously served. Refer to the Next Steps section for more information.
• Direct Deposit: Per Public Law 104-134 all Federal employees are required to have federal payments made by direct deposit to their financial institution.
• Successfully pass the E-Verify employment verification check. To learn more about E-Verify including your rights and responsibilities visit E-Verify at USDA employees are required to be enrolled in Continuous Vetting which authorizes government agencies to receive notifications of criminal activity on individuals who hold low risk public trust or national security positions.

Applicants must meet all qualifications and eligibility requirements by the closing date of the announcement including specialized experience and/or education as defined below.

FOR THE GS-07 LEVEL: Applicants must have one year of specialized experience (equivalent to the GS-GS 06 grade level) that demonstrates:

- Utilized understanding of Agencys or programs structure and needs to: identify urgent or sensitive inquiries screen requests for information and resolve non routine or technical issues in alignment with agency priorities.
- Applied spelling grammar and formatting standards to prepare and edit correspondence surveys charts and briefing materials ensuring professional quality and adherence to Agency or programs communication guidelines.
- Recommended process improvements and developed administrative procedures that enhanced office efficiency workflow and record management supporting stronger overall program operations.
- Communicated effectively in both verbal and written formats to: respond to inquiries coordinate activities with team members and assist internal and external stakeholders with a customer focused solutions oriented approach.
- Operated office automation tools-including word processing database management and spreadsheet software-to prepare forms reports graphics and charts; maintain program databases; and process electronic submissions.

Note: There is no education substitution for this grade level.