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USDA Agricultural Commodity Grader

USDA, Agricultural Marketing Service
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Hello,

My name is Rupert Richards, and I’m the Outreach Coordinator with the USDA’s Specialty Crops Inspection (SCI) Division.


We are excited to announce an opening for a part-time – temporary mixed tour vacancy Agricultural Commodity Grader (ACG) in our Philadelphia office. This role offers an excellent opportunity to gain hands-on experience in agricultural inspection and quality assurance to ensure the quality and availability of wholesome food for consumers across the country and around the world. Considering our current workload, the schedule would likely be full time but not guaranteed.

 

USDA Agricultural Commodity Grader

GS-5/7 ($21.29-27.68 per hour)
 

Why Consider This Role?

  • Growth Potential – Successful candidates will be strongly encouraged to apply for full-time permanent positions as they become available.
  • Valuable Experience – Work directly with agricultural products while learning federal inspection standards.
  • Meaningful Work – Play a key role in ensuring consumers receive safe and wholesome fresh and processed fruits and vegetables and related products.

What We’re Looking For:

  • Ability to lift over 55 lbs consistently and stand/walk for 8+ hours daily
  • Basic math skills (calculating percentages, addition, subtraction)
  • Basic computer proficiency (Microsoft Office, Adobe)
  • Flexibility to work overtime, nights, weekends, and holidays when needed


This is a great entry point into a career with the USDA, and we are looking for motivated individuals who are ready to learn and grow with us.

 

DUTIES

As a temporary USDA Agricultural Commodity Grader, you will be trained to: (1) collect and examine samples of fruits, vegetables, and related products, and then determine their grade, condition, and wholesomeness based on specific criteria; (2) observe food facilities’ operating methods, processing equipment, and personnel to see if they are in compliance with Federal requirements; and (3) perform a limited number of analytical determinations by prescribed methods and techniques.

 

QUALIFICATIONS

U.S. citizen with a valid driver’s license who is at least 18 years old.

Completed a 4-year course of study above high school leading to a bachelor's degree in any field OR have 3 years of general work experience in the public or private sector that demonstrates your ability to: (1) analyze problems and recognize solutions; (2) plan and organize work; and (3) communicate effectively orally and in writing.

Pass a physical examination from your doctor after being selected to ensure you can safely perform the duties of this position, which includes the ability to lift and carry objects that weigh up to 50 pounds, climb stairs and ladders, and work safely in a plant environment.

 

APPLY NOW! 

We are accepting applications for temporary Agricultural Commodity Grader positions through 11:59 PM Eastern on August 6, 2025. To apply submit a copy of your resume and any transcripts to rupertg.richards@usda.gov for consideration.

If you have any questions about the position or how to apply, please call Rupert Richards on (540) 361-2743.

USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

I look forward to hearing from you and hopefully welcoming you to our team!

Best regards,

Rupert Richards 
Outreach Coordinator
Specialty Crops Inspection (SCI) Division
U.S. Department of Agriculture