Job summary
Job post source
This job is directly from USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)
Job overview
The Botanist at USDA APHIS serves as an authority in plant identification and taxonomy, impacting plant health protection and quarantine efforts.
Responsibilities and impact
The Botanist makes final taxonomic determinations of seeds and plants, manages seed and herbarium collections, evaluates quarantine risks of exotic plants, provides technical guidance, collaborates with national and international scientists, and publishes scientific papers.
Compensation and benefits
The salary range is $120,579 to $156,755 per year with federal benefits typical of USDA positions, including health insurance and retirement plans.
Experience and skills
Applicants need a degree in botany or related plant science with 24 semester hours in botany, plus specialized experience equivalent to GS-12 level involving plant taxonomy, legal taxonomic determinations, use of taxonomic databases, microscopy, and scientific publication.
Career development
The role offers opportunities to work with international scientific communities and contribute to emergency response programs, supporting professional growth in plant health and regulatory science.
Work environment and culture
APHIS values commitment to protecting U.S. agriculture and operates as an emergency response agency requiring flexibility for temporary duty assignments.
Company information
USDA APHIS protects animal and plant health in the U.S. through regulatory programs and emergency response, supporting domestic and international agricultural markets.
Job location and travel
The position is likely based in a USDA facility with potential for domestic and international collaboration; specific location not stated.
Application process
Applicants must meet qualifications by the closing date, submit transcripts if required, and apply via USAJobs by the stated deadline.
Unique job features
The job includes unique responsibilities in quarantine plant identification and international scientific collaboration, with opportunities to influence plant health policy and emergency response.
Company overview
The USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) is a federal agency responsible for protecting and promoting U.S. agricultural health. They ensure the health of animals and plants by preventing the introduction and spread of pests and diseases, which in turn supports the agricultural economy. APHIS makes money through various services, including inspections, certifications, and regulatory compliance fees. Established in 1972, APHIS has played a crucial role in safeguarding the nation's agriculture and natural resources, making it a key player in maintaining the safety and quality of the U.S. food supply.
How to land this job
Position your resume to highlight your expertise in plant taxonomy, seed identification, and taxonomic determinations, emphasizing experience with dissecting microscopes and digital imaging systems as outlined in the job description.
Showcase your ability to manage and curate herbaria and seed collections, and include any experience with scientific literature reviews and evaluating quarantine significance of exotic plants or weeds.
Apply through multiple platforms including the USDA APHIS official careers site and LinkedIn to maximize your application visibility for the Botanist role.
Connect with current USDA APHIS botanists or plant health specialists on LinkedIn; use ice breakers such as commenting on recent APHIS publications or expressing interest in their work on quarantine plant identification to initiate conversation.
Optimize your resume for ATS by incorporating keywords like 'plant taxonomy,' 'seed identification,' 'herbarium curation,' 'taxonomic databases,' and 'quarantine plant evaluation' to ensure it passes initial automated screenings.
Utilize Jennie Johnson's Power Apply feature to automate tailored applications, identify all open application portals, and find relevant LinkedIn contacts, freeing you to focus on preparing for interviews and networking effectively.
Jennie Johnson works for you!
Here’s what we do to make sure you’re successful:
Targeted Resume Revamp:
We expertly craft your resume to navigate Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and showcase your qualifications, making you stand out as a top-tier candidate.
Job Description Dissection:
Unpack the job posting with expert analysis, ensuring your application hits every key requirement.
Bespoke Cover Letter:
Capture the attention of hiring managers with a personalized cover letter that highlights how your skills align perfectly with the job's needs.
Interview Mastery:
Prepare for interviews like a pro with likely questions, strategic answers, and insightful questions for you to ask, setting you apart as an informed candidate.
Direct Application Insights:
Receive tailored advice on the best places to apply, ensuring your applications are seen by the right employers.
Skills and Gaps Assessment:
Identify and close critical skills gaps to position yourself as the best-fit candidate for your ideal job.
Personalized Email Pitch:
Make a memorable first impression with an email template crafted to engage potential employers and initiate meaningful conversations.
In-depth Research Guide:
Leverage comprehensive research tools to gather effective insights on companies, industry trends, and role-specific challenges.
Detailed Company Analysis:
Gain in-depth understanding of your prospective employer, giving you the edge in applications and interviews.
Strategic Candidate Overview:
Understand your unique value and why companies would want to interview you, highlighting your background and positioning.