Farming
Federal Wage Grade position performing agricultural farming operations including planting, cultivating, and harvesting crops on federal lands, research stations, military installations, and government agricultural facilities.
💰WG-5002 Salary Information
Federal Wage System Pay
Federal Wage Grade (WG) pay varies by geographic location and is determined by local prevailing wage surveys.
Look Up WG Pay by LocationSource: DoD Civilian Personnel Advisory Service
Qualification Requirements
Official OPM qualification standards for WG-5002
Qualification requirements not yet available for this series.
🎖️Tips for Veterans
- ✓Translate military experience: Map duties to civilian terminology.
- ✓Highlight training: Include courses and certifications.
- ✓Veterans preference: Claim your 5 or 10-point preference.
- ✓Experience substitution: Military experience may substitute for education.
📝How to Qualify for WG-5002
Step-by-step guide to landing a federal farming position
- 1
Review Trade/Craft Requirements
WG positions require demonstrated skill in a specific trade or craft. Review the job announcement for required certifications, licenses, and hands-on experience.
- 2
Document Your Experience
WG positions are experience-based, not grade-based. Document your years of hands-on trade experience, apprenticeships completed, and journeyman status if applicable.
- 3
Gather Credentials
Collect your DD-214, trade certifications (welding, electrical, HVAC, etc.), apprenticeship completion certificates, and any specialized licenses required for your trade.
- 4
Build Your Federal Resume
Create a detailed federal resume highlighting your hands-on trade experience, tools and equipment operated, safety training, and specific projects completed. Include hours worked per week.
- 5
Apply on USAJOBS
Search for WG positions in your trade specialty, carefully answer assessment questions about your skill level and experience, and submit before the closing date.
📋Typical Duties
- •Perform skilled trade work in accordance with established standards, specifications, and safety procedures
- •Operate, maintain, and repair trade-specific equipment, tools, and machinery
- •Read and interpret blueprints, technical manuals, work orders, and specifications
- •Inspect completed work for quality, accuracy, and compliance with requirements
- •Maintain tools, equipment, and work areas in clean, safe, and operational condition
- •Document work performed including time, materials used, and completion status
- •Coordinate with supervisors and other trades on project requirements and schedules
- •Follow all safety protocols including proper use of PPE and hazardous material handling
- •Train and assist lower-grade workers in trade techniques and procedures
- •Requisition materials, parts, and supplies needed to complete assigned work
🎯Key Competencies
Understanding of trade-specific tools, equipment, materials, and techniques required for the position
Physical coordination and skill in using hands and tools to perform precise work
Knowledge of workplace safety procedures, OSHA standards, and proper use of personal protective equipment
Ability to diagnose issues, troubleshoot problems, and determine effective repair solutions
Attention to detail ensuring work meets specifications, standards, and quality requirements
Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, schematics, diagrams, and work orders
Proficiency in operating trade-specific machinery, power tools, and specialized equipment
Knowledge of preventive maintenance, inspection protocols, and equipment care
Ability to communicate effectively with supervisors, coworkers, and customers about work status
Flexibility to work in various conditions and adjust to changing priorities and assignments
🔑Resume Keywords
💡 Use these phrases to help ATS systems and human recruiters find your qualifications.
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Grade Levels
Grade information not available
Related Series
❓Frequently Asked Questions about WG-5002
What is a federal Farmer?
A federal Farmer (WG-5002) performs agricultural farming operations including planting, cultivating, and harvesting crops on federal lands, research stations, military installations, and government agricultural facilities. They support food production and agricultural research programs.
How much does a federal Farmer make?
Federal Farmers (WG-5002) are paid under the Federal Wage System based on local prevailing rates. Typical wages range $18-$32 per hour depending on locality and skill level. Annual earnings range $37,000-$67,000. Farm managers earn higher rates.
What are the requirements for WG-5002 positions?
WG-5002 requires demonstrated farming skills. Qualifications include crop cultivation knowledge, equipment operation, understanding of soil and plant science, and ability to perform physical agricultural labor. Research farm positions may require familiarity with experimental protocols.
Can military experience substitute for education in WG-5002?
Military agricultural or food production experience may help qualify. Soldiers with farming backgrounds who worked in food service or agricultural support have relevant skills. The physical fitness and work ethic from military service also transfer well to agricultural work.
What is the career progression for Farming?
Farmers progress through skill levels to farm manager positions. Career paths include transition to GS agricultural technician or specialist roles (GS-0400 series), research support positions, or agricultural program management at USDA facilities.
How do I apply for WG-5002 jobs on USAJOBS?
Search USAJOBS for 'Farmer' or 'Agricultural Worker' or series '5002.' Positions exist at USDA research stations, military installations, and federal prisons. Highlight your farming experience, equipment operation, and crop knowledge. Veterans receive preference.
Ready to Apply for WG-5002?
Create a tailored federal resume that meets OPM standards.