Agricultural Commodity Grader (Grain)
About this role
The USDA’s Federal Grain Inspection Service is hiring Agricultural Commodity Graders (Grain) at GS-05, GS-07, and GS-09 levels, with the announcement open from November 4 to November 10, 2026. In this role you will make official grade determinations on grain and related commodities, inspect storage and handling facilities, and certify weights that underpin America’s grain trade. It is hands-on federal work that rotates between grain facilities in your assigned area, and it offers a clear ladder from developmental grades to full performance. A bachelor’s degree can qualify you at GS-05, and a valid driver’s licence and US citizenship are required.
This listing sits in our Government Jobs section and was posted on November 07, 2026. The role is based on site in United States, so it suits candidates within commuting distance. On this page you will find the responsibilities, the requirements the employer is screening for, the benefits on offer, and a step-by-step route to submit your application.
Job snapshot
| Employer | USDA Federal Grain Inspection Service |
|---|---|
| Job title | Agricultural Commodity Grader (Grain) |
| Location | United States |
| Workplace | On-site |
| Job type | Full-time |
| Category | Government Jobs |
| Salary | See source listing |
| Posted | November 07, 2026 |
| Listing source | USAJOBS |
What you will do day to day
While every employer organises the work slightly differently, the core of this Agricultural Commodity Grader (Grain) role at USDA Federal Grain Inspection Service covers the following:
- Determine the grade of grain and related commodities and make independent decisions on difficult and borderline cases
- Conduct stowage examinations of ship holds, barges, hopper cars, and other containers for cleanliness and acceptability
- Inspect and check-test weighing equipment and diverter samplers used for official inspection
- Ensure accurate weights and documentation supporting official weight certificates
- Act as a lead and point of contact for elevator personnel and field management
- Rotate between facilities in the assigned area and learn the full range of weighing activities
What you will need
- US citizen or US national; valid state driver’s licence required at application
- For GS-05: three years of progressively responsible experience, or a four-year bachelor’s degree (or equivalent combination)
- For GS-07: one year of specialised experience in inspecting or grading products, or one year of graduate education
- For GS-09: one year of specialised experience at the GS-07 level, or a master’s degree or two years of graduate education
- Ability to plan and organise work, use office software, and make sound decisions
- Must pass a background investigation, pre-employment medical statement or exam, and a one-year probationary period
This role suits a candidate who is comfortable with formal processes, documentation, and eligibility rules, and who values long-term stability and public service.
Pay and benefits
USDA Federal Grain Inspection Service has not published a fixed salary range in this listing, which is common for roles where pay is set by experience, grade, or location. Check the source listing for the current pay details, and compare the benefits below when judging the overall package.
Benefits listed by the employer
- Federal GS-05/07/09 career ladder with promotion potential
- Federal benefits package including health coverage and retirement
- Paid training in official grain grading and weighing procedures
- Work that supports US grain exports and food supply chains
- Direct deposit pay and continuous vetting enrolment as a federal employee
How to apply
- Read the requirements above carefully and check you meet the essentials — US employers screen against them closely.
- Update your résumé so the skills named in this listing are easy to find, using the same wording where it honestly matches your experience.
- Click the Apply button on this page. It takes you to the source listing (USAJOBS), where the original posting is linked — always confirm the role, pay and deadline there before applying.
- Complete every field of the application on the source listing and double-check your contact details before submitting.
- Keep a note of the posting date and job title so you can follow up politely if you have not heard back within two weeks.
Tips to strengthen your application
- Apply well before the closing date — government portals rarely grant extensions.
- Answer every questionnaire item and align your résumé wording with the announcement.
- Check citizenship, clearance, and education requirements before investing time.
- Federal résumés can be longer than private-sector ones; include hours, grades, and duties in detail.
Frequently asked questions
When does this announcement close?
The announcement is open November 4-10, 2026, and the full application package must be submitted by 11:59pm ET on the closing date.
Can a degree qualify me without grading experience?
Yes — a four-year bachelor’s degree qualifies for GS-05, and graduate education or superior academic achievement can qualify at higher grades.
How do I apply for the Agricultural Commodity Grader (Grain) position?
Use the Apply button on this page — it opens the source listing on USAJOBS. US Jobs Hub never charges job seekers and does not collect applications itself.
Where is this job located?
This position is listed for United States and is a On-site role. Confirm the exact workplace address on the official listing.
Need help applying? Read our guide: Job Interview Preparation: A Practical Guide — written for government jobs applicants in the USA.
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