Grants Management Specialist

Agricultural Marketing Service•Tucson, AZ

21h

About The Position

The Trade and Marketing Program (TM) analyzes industry needs and provides grants and technical assistance to improve domestic and international market access for U.S. agricultural producers. The Grants Management Specialist develops and applies grant and assistance management policies, evaluates applicant eligibility and program submissions, and negotiates award terms related to costs, timelines, and oversight responsibilities. The role manages grant and financial assistance activities from program announcements and application solicitations through award processing, recipient monitoring, reporting, and resolution of audit findings. It involves serving as a liaison between the Government and grant recipient organizations to communicate requirements, clarify policies, and resolve issues. The position involves mobile work, characterized by routine and regular travel to customer or other worksites.

Requirements

For the GS-12 level, one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-11 level.
Experience applying Federal grant and financial assistance regulations to review awards and resolve routine grant issues.
Experience supporting pre-award and post-award grant activities by reviewing and analyzing applications, evaluating budgets and project plans, and preparing financial and performance reports.
Experience communicating grant requirements and findings through clear written reports and oral briefings to applicants, recipients, and program officials.
Must be a U.S. Citizen or U.S. National.
Individuals born male after December 31, 1959, must be registered with Selective Service or exempt.
Must pass satisfactory background investigation and/or fingerprint check and successfully pass E-Verify employment verification.
Must complete a one-year probationary period unless previously served.
Must use direct deposit for Federal payments.
USDA employees must be enrolled in Continuous Vetting.
Applicants must meet all qualifications and eligibility requirements by the announcement closing date.
No education substitution is available for the GS-12 experience requirement.

Responsibilities

Design, develop, implement, and interpret grant and assistance management policies, procedures, and practices.
Monitor, analyze, and assess recipient performance and compliance with award terms and conditions, ensuring alignment with established performance measures.
Oversee, review, analyze, and evaluate grant and assistance applications, plans, and estimates for compliance with Federal laws, regulations, and award terms.
Prepare, process, issue, and track grants and assistance awards and monitor compliance with reporting requirements.
Conduct risk assessments and business reviews, and evaluate the adequacy of grantees’ policies and procedures.
Resolve audit findings or monitor audit resolution in partnership with resolution officials.
Announce programs and solicit applications or proposals for funding.
Serve as a liaison between the Government and grant recipient organizations to clarify, interpret, and resolve issues, and communicate grant requirements and expectations.