| Agricultural Statistician |
The Minnesota office of NASS is a good place to work. Duties
(conducting surveys of crops and livestock) are mentally challenging,
demand good computer skills, some knowledge of statistics, and knowledge
of crops, livestock, and commodity markets. Training opportunities
excellent, both in-house and occasionally from private vendors. Lots of
opportunities for young people from an ag background with computer
skills. Cooperation and teamwork important skills, also being able to
talk with farmers and ranchers and to persuade them to cooperate.
Advancement to full-performance level generally requires a move to
another State; supervisory positions at the State level require a tour
of duty in Washington, D.C. after second State assignment. HQ a good
place to work although affordable housing in D.C. is a major issue. The
Civil Service hiring register for ag statisticians has been open since
1998; few people have both knowledge of ag and statistics. Agency is
small but offers good opportunities for advancement if one is willing to
relocate. Has 46 State offices, each with 2-25 (MN = 21) people,
typically located in the State capital close to the State's Dept. of
Agriculture. Flexible hours, business casual dress M-Th (ties not
required), casual Fri. Good representation of African-Americans and
other minorities in this office and others, and they are treated well.
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United States Department of Agriculture Interview Surveys
