USDA - OHRM – Diversity, Recruitment, and Work/Life Division| Students Employment Opportunities (SEO) Page 1 of 25

Last revised 4/7/2015

 Internships

 Recent Graduates

 Fellowships

 Volunteers

Student Employment Opportunities 

Diversity, Recruitment, and Work/Life Division 

Office of Human Resources Management

USDA.Internships@dm.usda.gov

www.dm.usda.gov/employ/student/index.htm

Booklet

Science and 

Technology 

 

Agribusiness 

and Industry 

Management 

 

Students Employment Opportunities

United States

Department of 

Agriculture
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Table of Contents

SECTION C ONTENT PAGE

I. T H E U . S . D E P A R T M E N T O F A G R I C U L T U R E .................... . . . . . . . . . . . . .

 Mission Areas and Agencies 

 USDA Offices

4

II U S D A A G E N C I E S C A R E E R G R I D . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .................... . . . . . . . . . . 5

III. C A R E E R S A T U S D A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

 In Management

 In Agribusiness and Industry

 In Science and Technology

 USDA Agencies Career Grid

6

III. C A R E E R O P P O R T U N T I E S F A C T S H E E T S . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

 USDA Pathways Programs

 Internship Program

 Recent Graduates Program

 Presidential Management Fellows Program

 USDA’s Higher Education Institution Program 

 1890 Historically Black Land-Grant Universities

 1994 Tribal Land-Grant Colleges and Universities

 Hispanic Serving Institutions (HSIs) – Public Service Leaders Scholars Program

 USDA Third Party Internship Programs

 Conference on Asian Pacific American Leadership (CAPAL) 

 HACU National Internship Program (HNIP)

 Junior Agricultural Ambassador Program (JAAP) 

 Student Conservation Association (SCA)

 Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP) 

 The Washington Center (TWC)

 Washington Internship for Native Students (WINS)

 Wisconsin Tribal Conservation Advisory Council (WTCAC) 

 USDA Internships for Student Veterans

 V2F Information Technology (IT) Internship program

 Veterans Administration Vocational Rehabilitation & Employment (VA-VRE)

 USDA Internship for Students with Disabilities

 Workforce Recruitment Program (WRP)

 USDA Volunteer Programs (non-paid internship 

 Dig into Rare and Special Collections Volunteer Experience (DRSCVE)

 Higher Education Institution - Student Intern Program (HEISIP)

 FSIS Volunteer Student Program (FSIS-VSP)

 NIFA Volunteer Program 

 NRCS Earth Team Volunteers (NRCSETV)

7

IV. S C H O L A R S H I P B Y U S D A P R O F E S S I O N A L O R G A N I Z A T I O N S . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

 National Organization of Professional Hispanic Natural Resources Conservation Service Employees

18

V. T I P S T O A P P L Y F O R U S D A C A R E E R S . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

 General Facts

19

VI. S T U D E N T S E M P L O Y M E N T O P P O R T U N I T I E S P O I N T S O F 

C O N T A C T . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .....

 Agencies Point of Contacts

 Administrative Offices Programs 

 Internship Programs by Third Party Internship Providers

20

VII. F R E Q U E N T L Y A S K E D Q U E S T I O N S (FAQ s ) .................... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
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I. The U.S. Department of Agriculture

The mission statement of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) is to provide leadership on food, agriculture, natural 

resources, and related issues based on sound public policy, the best available science, and efficient management.

USDA has:

7 Mission Areas

17 Agencies

16 Offices

Mission Areas and Agencies

(Mission Areas are in bold and their respective Agencies are underneath)

Farm and Foreign Agricultural Services (FFAS)

 Farm Service Agency (FSA) 

 Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) 

 Risk Management Agency (RMA)

Marketing and Regulatory Programs (MRP)

 Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) 

 Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) 

 Grain Inspection, Packers, and Stockyards 

Administration (GIPSA)

Food, Nutrition and Consumer Services (FNCS)

 Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion (CNPP)

 Food and Nutrition Service (FNS)

Natural Resources and Environment (NRE)

 Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS)

 Forest Service (FS)

Food Safety (FS)

 Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) 

Research, Education and Economics (REE)

 Agricultural Research Service (ARS)

 Economic Research Service (ERS)

 National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS)

 National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA)

 National Agricultural Library (NAL) 

Rural Development (RD)

Rural Business and Cooperative Programs (RB), Rural Housing (RH) and Rural Utilities (RU)

USDA Offices

 Office of the Chief 

Information Officer (OCIO)

 Office of the Chief Economist

(OCE)

 Office of Tribal Relations 

(OTR)

 Office of the Executive 

Secretariat (OES)

 National Appeals Division 

(NAD)

 Office of the Inspector 

General (OIG)

 Office of the General Counsel 

(OGC)

 Office of Communications 

(OC) 

 Office of Environmental 

Markets (OEM)

 Office of the Assistant 

Secretary for Civil Rights 

(OASCR)

 Office of Budget and Program Analysis 

(OBPA)

 Departmental Management

 Office of Congressional Relations (OCR)

 Office of the Chief Financial Officer (OCFO)

 Office of Advocacy and Outreach (OAO)

 Faith-based and Neighborhood 

Partnership (FBNP) 
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III. Career Opportunities at USDA

Jobs at USDA...are much more than an office job...

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) offers a variety of career opportunities for students and recent graduates to work in 

agricultural, science, technology, math, environmental, management, business and other career fields. USDA emphasis is placing on 

fostering a connection between continuing education and employment training in the Federal Government. Through our umbrella 

“Student Employment Opportunities (SEOs) program,” USDA offers the following student employment programs:

 Pathways Program, 

 Third Party Internship Program, 

 Internship for Students with Disabilities, 

 Internships for Student Veterans and

 Volunteer Program (Non-Paid Internships). 

Most interns and recent graduates are hired in paid or unpaid positions in the following Mission Critical Occupations (MCO):

Management Career Fields:

Administration and Office Support 

Student Trainee series 0399 

(Miscellaneous Clerk and Assistant, 

Receptionist, Mail and File, Office 

Automation, Administrative Officer, 

Computer Clerk, Management & 

Program Analysis, Logistics, 

Communication Clerical, 

Miscellaneous Administration & 

Program)

Financial Management Student 

Trainee series 0599 (Financial 

Clerical, Accounting, Auditing, Budget 

Clerical and Assistant, Insurance 

Accounts)

General Student Trainee series 0099

(Safety Technician, Outdoor 

Recreation Planning, Park Ranger, 

Environmental Protection Assistant, 

Fingerprint Identification, Security, 

Fire Protection and Prevention)

Human Resources Management 

Student Trainee series 0299 (Human 

Resources Assistance)

Investigation Student Trainee series 

1899 (Compliance Inspection and 

Support, Criminal Investigation, 

Investigative Analysis, Agricultural 

Warehouse Inspection, Equal 

Opportunity Investigation, Consumer 

Safety Inspection, Food Inspection)

Information and Arts Student Trainee 

series 1099 (Public Affairs, Writing 

and Editing, Audiovisual)

Legal Occupations Student Trainee 

series 0999

Agribusiness and Industry

Career Fields:

Business and Industry Student Trainee 

series 1199 (Agricultural Marketing 

Specialist, Agricultural Program 

Specialist, Procurement/Contract 

Specialist Financial Analysis, Loan 

Specialist, Purchasing, Procurement 

Clerical, Public Utilities, Trade 

Specialist, Crop Insurance 

Administration) 

Quality Inspection Student Trainee 

series 1981 (Agricultural Commodities 

Aid)

Social Science Student Trainee series 

0199 (Archaeology, Economist and 

Economic Assistant, General 

Anthropology, History, Geography, 

Foreign Agriculture Affairs, 

International Relations, Psychology, 

Social Science, Sociology, Workforce 

Research and Analysis) 

Science and Technology Fields:

Biological Science Student Trainee 

series 0499 (Agronomy, Botany, Fish 

Biology, Forestry, Range Technician, 

Soil Conservation Technician/Soil 

Conservation Specialist, General 

Natural Resources Management and 

Biological Sciences)

Engineering and Architecture Student 

Trainee series 0899 (Agricultural 

Engineering, Engineering Technical, 

Safety Engineering, Fire Protection 

Engineering, Landscape Architecture, 

Civil Engineering, Survey Technical, 

Environmental Engineering, 

Bioengineering,)

Information Technology Student 

Training series 2299

Mathematics and Statistics Student 

Trainee series 1599

Medical and Health Student Trainee 

series 0699 (Consumer Safety, 

Dietitian and Nutritionist, Public 

Health Program Specialist)

Physical Science Student Trainee 

series 1399 (Food Technology, 

Cartographic, Land Surveying, 

Geology, Hydrology, Chemistry)

Veterinary Student Trainee series 

0799 (Animal Health and Technician 

Veterinary Medical Science)
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For general questions about the recruitment of students including recent graduates, volunteers, third party internships, students with disabilities and Veterans -

please contact the Department Student Employment Program Manager, Wenndy Carrasco at USDA.Internships@dm.usda.gov. 

IV. Career Opportunities Factsheet

USDA Pathways Programs provide students enrolled in a wide variety of educational institutions, and recent graduates with 

opportunities to explore USDA careers. 

USDA Pathways Internship Program

The Internship Program provides paid work experience to 

students currently enrolled in high school or an accredited 

college or university (this includes Home-Schooling, 

Certificate Programs and Community Colleges). Interns may 

work during the summer, fall, spring, or year round. 

Eligibility:

 U.S. Citizen or U.S. Permanent Resident

 Age 16 years or older

 Enrolled in, or accepted for enrollment to, an accredited 

high school, community college, college or university; 

professional, technical, vocational, or trade school; 

advanced degree program; or other qualifying 

educational institution and pursuing a qualifying degree 

or certificate 

 A 2.0 GPA to Good Academic Standing (typically a 2.0 on 

a 4.0 scale)

 Apply to an open vacancy announcement

To apply: 

 www.usda.usajobs.gov

 Enter “Student” in the “What” field and click on Search

Sample list of career paths in the USDA Pathways Internship 

Program:

 Agricultural Marketing Service Virtual 

 Food Safety Veterinary Studies 

 Foreign Agriculture 

 Information Technology 

 International Agricultural 

 The Saul T. Wilson, Jr.

For more information, please visit www.usda.gov.

For questions: Askusdapathways@dm.usda.gov.

USDA Pathways Recent Graduates Program

The Recent Graduates Program offers opportunities for 

graduates who have completed, within the past two years, a 

qualifying associates, bachelors, masters, professional, 

doctorate, vocational or technical degree or certificate 

program. Veterans unable to apply within two years of 

receiving their degree – due to military service obligationhave six years upon degree completion to apply.

Eligibility:

 U.S. Citizen or U.S. Permanent Resident

 Must apply 2 years from date educational requirements 

are completed (eligibility period for certain Veterans may 

be extended 6 years from date of completion of 

academic requirements)

 Grade limitations apply (GS: 11)

 Sign a participant agreement 

 Apply to an open vacancy announcement 

To apply: 

 www.usda.usajobs.gov

 Enter “Recent Graduates” in the “What” field and click 

on Search

For more information, please visit www.usda.gov.

For questions: Askusdapathways@dm.usda.gov.

USDA Pathways Presidential Management Fellows Program

(PMF)

The PMF program is a prestigious competitive program that 

supports leadership development of recent graduates from 
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graduate degree programs who have been pre-qualified, or 

recommended by a network of graduate schools.

Eligibility:

 U.S. Citizen

 GPA 3.0 or higher

 Recently graduated from a graduate degree program

 Pass online and in-person assessment

 Acceptance to the fellowship program

 Find a position within the Agency.

For more information, please visit www.usda.gov.

For questions: Askusdapathways@dm.usda.gov.

Success Stories

Laura Sepulveda Ramirez, former USDA Intern, 2004.

I joined USDA, Food Safety and Inspection Service as a Human Resources Student Trainee in June, 2004 under the Student Career Experience Program 

(SCEP). While a student, I had the opportunity to work closely with members of FSIS’ Human Resources Operations (HRO) in Minneapolis, Minnesota; 

the Human Resources Policy (HRP) team in Washington, DC; and with the Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA), Veterans Health Administration (VHA) 

in Lexington, Kentucky. As a student trainee I performed a number of different functions in the HR arena including HR staffing assistant duties, 

recruitment, development and coordination of the 2005 VMO mass mailing project in HRO, and was part of the FSIS Leadership Competency Initiative 

team during the summer of 2008. While on DVA, VHA I performed duties as a Nurse Recruiter Trainee, which gave me exposure to various HR areas like 

recruitment, budget management, and labor and employee relations. All of these valuable experiences as a student trainee gave me the knowledge 

and skills to be selected for my current position after earning my MBA in Human Resources in 2009. I now manage the program that once gave me the 

opportunity to join our Agency.

Tamara Johnson, former USDA Intern, 2012.

I am a junior at The Pennsylvania State University. In May of 2014 I plan to graduate with a BA in Criminal Justice and English, and upon graduation I 

plan to attend law school to become an advocate of Family Services. I was born and raised in Washington D.C. and because I attended a law-based 

high school (Thurgood Marshall Academy), it gave me many opportunities to learn about the judicial system through connections and internships with 

law firms, the Superior Court, and The National Bar Association. However, I wanted to experience another part of the government, and to explore 

other areas of interest. The summer after my freshman year of college, I worked for USDA through the Mayor’s Summer Youth Employment Program 

(SYEP). That summer I gained valuable work experience and knowledge about what USDA does for the people and its strategic plan to protect 

America’s land. Working for USDA gave me a great opportunity to enhance my skills and to embrace a very diverse organization that is keen on equal 

opportunity and empowerment. After my experience working for USDA, I wanted to become more involved and applied for the Departmental 

Management internship through STEP (Student Temporary Employment Program). My goal for this summer experience is to expand my knowledge 

about USDA to be able to help incoming summer SYEP interns to give them the same enlightening experience that I was given.

Wenndy Carrasco, former USDA Federal Career Intern, 2011

I joined USDA as a Human Resources Specialist in September, 2007 under the Federal Career Intern Program (FCIP). While a FCIP, I had the opportunity 

to work closely with the Human Resources Operations and Policy (HRO and HRP) Deputy Director in Beltsville, Maryland. As a FCIP, I performed a 

number of different functions in the Human Resources arena including HR staffing duties, recruitment, student programs for the Research, Education 

and Economics Mission Area, and was part of several projects initiatives. The Staff I worked with was outstanding who trained and exposed me to 

various dimensions of Human Resources, such as training and development, processing, staffing and classification, human capital management, 

recruitment, labor and employee relations, mediation and EEO. All of these valuable experiences as a FCIP gave me the knowledge and skills to be 

selected to serve in the USDA Department Management Cultural Transformation Initiative Taskgroup on Student Employment Opportunities (SEOs), 

where I led several important workgroups and projects. I now manage the USDA Student Employment Opportunities that once gave me the 

opportunity to join USDA. “I am grateful for the experience I received through the FCIP at USDA. Through this program, I was exposed to many projects 

and I believe this is what drew me to want to continuing working in shaping the SEOs at USDA, and because of programs like FCIP, it was possible.” I

hold a Master’s Degree in Public Administration from Columbia University; and a Business Certificate from the Columbia Business School. I am proud to 

be the daughter of a former farmworker mother who picked grapes, tomatoes, and other vegetables throughout California!

Ian Fennell, former FNS Intern, 2012.

I was a student intern with the Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion (CNPP) in the Food, Nutrition, and Consumer Services mission area. I’m a 

behavioral and community health senior at the University of Maryland, College Park. I believe that policy development, education, and promotion are 

key to ensuring nutritional health. Interning with the Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion put me alongside others who wish to empower the 

American population by providing guidance and knowledge in the realm of dietary and nutritional needs.
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1890 National Scholars Program

The USDA/1890 National Scholars Program is a partnership 

between of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and 

the 1890 Historically Black Land-Grant Universities. The 

USDA/1890 National Scholars Program is implemented under 

the USDA Fellows Experience Program (FEP). Scholars 

accepted into the program will be appointed using the 

Schedule A(r) authority (5 CFR 213.3202) and are not eligible 

for noncompetitive conversion to full time employment upon 

graduation.

However, all USDA/1890 National Scholars are required to 

compete for appropriate employment immediately after 

graduation and, if selected, commit to at least one year of 

service to USDA for each year of financial assistance provided. 

(Note: Specific details of this service requirement will be 

outlined in the service agreement entered into by the 

selected Scholar, the University at which the Scholar is 

matriculated, and the USDA Sponsoring Agency.) 

The USDA/1890 National Scholars Program will provide full 

tuition, employment, employee benefits, fees, books, and 

room and board each year for up to 4 years to selected 

students pursuing a bachelor's degree at the following 

universities: 

 Alabama A&M University

 Alcorn State University, Mississippi 

 Central State University, Ohio

 Delaware State University 

 Florida A&M University 

 Fort Valley State University, Georgia 

 Kentucky State University 

 Langston University, Oklahoma 

 Lincoln University, Missouri 

 North Carolina A&T State University 

 Prairie View A&M University, Texas 

 South Carolina State University 

 Southern University, Louisiana 

 Tennessee State University 

 Tuskegee University, Alabama 

 University of Arkansas Pine Bluff 

 University of Maryland Eastern Shore 

 Virginia State University 

 West Virginia State University

Eligibility:

To be eligible for the USDA/1890 National Scholars Program 

scholarship a student must: 

 Be a U.S. citizen 

 Have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better (on a 4.0 

scale) 

 Have been accepted for admission or currently 

attending one of the nineteen 1890 Historically Black 

Land-Grant Universities. 

 Study agriculture, food, natural resource sciences, or 

other related academic disciplines 

 Demonstrate leadership and community service 

 Submit an official transcript with the school seal and 

an authorized official's signature 

 Submit a signed application (original signature only)

To download application and for more information, please 

visit:

http://www.outreach.usda.gov/education/1890/index.htm

For questions:

Call this number (202) 205-4307 or send an email at

1890init@usda.gov

1994 Tribal Scholars Program 

The USDA 1994 Tribal Scholars Program is an employment 

program that offers a combination of work experience and 

academic study leading to career positions within USDA. The 

program is designed to integrate classroom study with paid 

work experience. The program is conducted in accordance 

with a planned schedule and a working agreement between 

USDA’s Higher Education Institution Program provides scholarships, internships, and fellowships to students. This program closes the professional 

achievement gap by providing opportunities to talented and diverse young people to support the agricultural industry in the 21st century. 
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USDA agencies, student, and the 1994 Tribal Colleges and 

Universities.

Eligibility:

 Begin their educational career at a 1994 Land-Grant 

Institution,

 Demonstrate an interest in public service and 

pursuing a career with USDA

 High academic achievement (3.0 GPA or higher),

 Study agriculture, food, natural resource sciences, or 

other related disciplines 

 Not yet have a bachelor’s degree,

 Be a U.S. citizen.

Applications for this program can be obtained by contacting 

the USDA/1994 Programs by email at 1994@osec.usda.gov,

and including in the subject line “Tribal Scholars Application 

Request” or by phone at 202-720-7265.

Website: www.outreach.usda.gov/education/1994tlgcu/

Public Service Leader Scholarship Program

The Public Service Leader Scholars Program provides 

undergraduate and graduate level students with a challenging 

internship opportunity combined with a scholarship. The 

program is designed to promote public service and create 

access to higher education. Upon successful completion of 

program and degree requirements, participants become 

permanent employees of USDA.

Eligibility:

 Be a U.S. citizen or a national (resident of American 

Samoa or Swains Island) and Non-citizens may be 

eligible, 

 Enrolled as a degree-seeking student at an 

accredited institution in the United States,

 Have a 2.75 GPA or higher (on a 4.0 scale),

 Willingness to relocate upon graduation (Mobility 

Agreement will be signed upon selection)

 Have a strong interest in a career in public service 

with the USDA,

 Exhibit leadership and community involvement,

 Attend a mandatory leadership training in 

Washington, D.C. in June, and

 Meet major and class level requirements of the 

scholarship position for which you are applying.

To apply online: hsinp@osec.usda.gov, and attached the 

following:

 Resume

 Essays 

 Two Letters of Recommendation

 Unofficial Transcripts 

For more information, call: (202) 720-6506.

Website: http://www.hsi.usda.gov/Students/PSLS.htm

Success Story

Samantha Marin, Former PSLS Scholar, 2011

This past summer I was an intern in the USDA headquarters building in the Office of Inspector General, Office of Investigations. 

With the help of the CSUF Cal State D.C. program I was able to network with a USDA representative who helped me and other 

students attain unpaid internships with the OIG. Mr. Ron Guillen also informed me about the USDA Public Service Leaders 

Scholarship Program, a paid internship and scholarship opportunity. I applied to the USDA PSLS program doubtful that I would 

even be accepted. It seemed like an unbelievable opportunity. Half way through my unpaid internship with the OIG I was offered 

the PSL Scholarship. As a recipient, the remainder of my graduate tuition will be paid for and I will also be guaranteed a position 

with the USDA upon the completion of my degree. During the upcoming summer I will complete internship hours and I will also be 

set up with travel and housing arrangements in D.C. Upon completing a Master's degree in Public Administration at Cal State 

Fullerton, I will be transitioned into a permanent position with the USDA, APHIS, Office of Civil Rights Enforcement and 

Compliance. I am very excited to have been given such a great opportunity with a reputable agency! In my internship experience 

with the USDA I have found agency employees to be very inviting and open to diversity. Having come from a low income family I

am truly grateful for the scholarship and job opportunity!
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Conference on Asian Pacific American Leadership (CAPAL)

The CAPAL program provides agencies with highly qualified 

internship candidates representing groups that are currently 

under-represented within the Federal workforce. CAPAL 

interns hail from a diverse set of the country’s most 

prominent universities including UC Berkeley, University of 

Chicago, University of Pennsylvania, and Harvard University. 

Eligibility:

 Be a U.S. Citizen

 3.0 GPA or higher

 Enrollment in a degree-seeking program at an accredited 

institution

 Complete application online

 Submit required documentation

Deadline to apply: March for Summer Internships

To apply online: http://www.capal.org/programs/federalinternship-program/

For more information, contact: info@capal.org or 

scholarships@capal.org or applications@capal.org

Website: http://www.capal.org/programs/federal-internshipprogram/

Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU)

Since 1992 the HACU National Internship Program (HNIP) has 

recruited college students for paid summer- and semesterlong internships at federal agencies and private corporations 

in Washington, D.C. and throughout the country. These ten 

and fifteen-week internship programs give college students 

direct experience in a diverse array of careers in the federal 

and corporate sectors.

HNIP has placed over 9,000 college students in rewarding and 

challenging internships matching their majors and career 

goals. Interns have enhanced their professional skills through 

placements in departments of public affairs, accounting, 

human resources and information technology, as well as 

laboratories, hospitals, airports, and national forests and 

parks, among others. Some intern assignments have included 

completing and analyzing research, writing speeches, 

conducting audits, performing land surveys, creating web 

pages, conducting community health surveys and developing 

outreach strategies for under-served populations.

Deadlines to apply:

 Spring Session: Mid November

 Summer Session: Mid February

 Fall Session: Mid June

Eligibility:

 Authorization or eligibility to work in the United States 

 3.0 GPA or higher

 Enrollment in a degree-seeking program at an accredited 

institution

 Completion of freshman year of college before the 

internship begins.

To apply online: http://www.hacu.net/hacu/HNIP.asp

For more information, contact:

Jessica.Castro@osec.usda.gov or 202-720-6506

Junior Agricultural Ambassador Program

The Agricultural Ambassadors Program provides high school 

students with the opportunity to intern with the USDA 

Agricultural Research Service (ARS) and the Animal and Plant 

Health Inspection Service (APHIS) in Florida, Texas, and 

California. Students also attend a leadership development 

program in Washington, DC. Ambassadors are selected based 

USDA partners with several Third Party Internship Programs to provide students the opportunity to work with our 19 Agencies to 

gain practical experience in different fields. Students under these programs are considered contractors. These programs typically 

provide stipends for interns. The recruitment and eligibility determination is completed by each third party internship program point 

of contact.
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on their academic excellence, interest in science, and 

demonstrated leadership qualities.

After completing the program, Ambassadors represent USDA 

at their respective high schools and serve as a resource to 

students interested in agricultural-related fields. The program 

is funded by the USDA Hispanic-Serving Institutions National 

Program and managed in partnership with Miami Dade 

College-North, California State University–Fresno, University 

of Texas Pan American, Miami Dade County Public Schools, 

and Fresno Unified School District.

Eligibility:

 Be in good academic standing with a minimum GPA of 

3.0/4.0,

 Be a sophomore, junior or senior by September, 

 Be a student leader and committed to public service,

 Be interested in agricultural science related careers,

 Attend the required orientation accompanied by a 

parent(s) or legal guardian(s), 

 Complete the application and mail in the required 

documents, and

 Be involved in the school program after returning from 

Washington, DC with the assignments given by the USDA 

Regional Director. 

For more information or to apply:

http://www.hsi.usda.gov/Students/JAAP.htm

One City High School Internship Program (OCHSIP)

The One City High School Internship Program (OCHSIP) is a 

program administered by the DC Department of Employment 

Services (DOES. This program is designed to provide District 

high school students with structured internship opportunities 

and mentoring relationships. Through OCHSIP, we strive to 

provide students with the opportunity to: 

 Gain meaningful work experience through a paid 

internship; 

 Learn and develop skills, attitudes, and commitment 

necessary to succeed in today’s world of work; 

 Interact with dynamic working professionals in a positive 

work environment; and gain various professional 

exposure to different careers 

Eligibility:

 14 to 18 years old

 Enrolled in DC high schools

 A U.S. Citizen or a U.S. Permanent Resident

 A District of Columbia (DC) resident with valid DC 

identification and social security number.

 Completed 160 hours of community service 

 GPA 2.5 or higher.

 Only students that meet the internship requirements will 

be accepted

Deadlines or to apply:

Check website: www.youthjobs.dc.gov

For more information contact: youthjobs@dc.gov or call at 

202-698-3492.

Student Conservation Association (SCA)

The Student Conservation Association provides college and 

high school-aged students with hands-on conservation 

service opportunities in virtually every field imaginable, from 

tracking grizzlies through the Tetons to restoring desert 

ecosystems and teaching environmental education at 

Washington, D.C.’s Urban Tree House. We are truly building 

the next generation of conservation leaders. SCA partners 

with federal agencies and other public and private 

organizations to provide expense-paid internships. SCA 

recruit a national pool of applicants and help them complete 

their online application.

Eligibility:

 Enrollment in a degree-seeking program in conservation, 

environmental or related field at an accredited 

institution, 

 Completion of freshman year of college before the 

internship begins, and

 Authorization or eligibility to work in the United States 

Deadlines to apply:

 August for Fall Internships

 November for Spring Internships

 May for Summer Internships

To apply online: http://mysca.force.com/member

For more information or to apply, contact:

Admissions@thesca.org or oncampus@thesca.org.

Website: http://www.thesca.org/serve/internships

Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP)

The Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP) is a locally 

funded initiative sponsored by the District of Columbia 

Department of Employment Services (DOES) that provides 

District youth ages 14 to 21 with enriching and constructive 

summer work experience through subsidized placements in 

the government and private sectors.
USDA - OHRM – Diversity, Recruitment, and Work/Life Division| Students Employment Opportunities Page 13 of 25

Eligibility:

 14 to 21 years old

 Enrolled in school

 A U.S. Citizen or a U.S. Permanent Resident

 A District of Columbia (DC) resident with valid DC 

identification and social security number.

Deadlines or to apply:

Check website: http://www.youthjobs.dc.gov/

For more information contact: summerjobs@dc.gov or call at 

202-698-3492.

Washington Internship for Native Students (WINS)

The Washington Internships for Native Students (WINS) offers 

students of sovereign American Indian, Alaska Native, and 

Native Hawaiian (AI/AN/NH) nations the opportunity to build 

leadership skills while living, studying, and interning in 

Washington, DC. Developed in response to the White House 

Initiative on American Indians and Alaska Natives, this 

enriching program offers qualified students full scholarships 

funded by American University and sponsoring organizations. 

Participating students will gain professional work experience 

through interning at a federal agency or private firm, take 

courses focusing on Native American public policy concerns, 

and enjoy engaging social and cultural extra-curricular 

activities.

Eligibility:

 Student must be enrolled in a college or university as a 

sophomore, junior, senior, or graduate student in good 

standing (completed sophomore year with a GPA of 2.5),

 Must be a member of a Federally recognized tribe

To apply online: http://www.american.edu/wins/

For more information, contact: Amy Morrill Bijeau at 

morrill@american.edu. 

Wisconsin Tribal Conservation Advisory Council (WTCAC) 

WTCAC internship program enables students to gain the skill 

in resource conservation, biology, engineering, economics, 

soil, financial management and other natural resources and 

to prepare for lives of achievement, engagement and 

leadership.

Eligibility:

 Students must be enrolled in, or pursuing, a degree 

program in Natural Resources, Biological Sciences, 

Agriculture, Forestry, Engineering, Agricultural Business, 

or other Environmental Science degrees to qualify for the 

Wisconsin Tribal Conservation Advisory Council (WTCAC) 

Third Party Contractors (Internship) Program.

 Enrolled members of Federally Recognized Tribes in 

Wisconsin, Michigan and Minnesota.

 Enrolled members of other Federally Recognized Tribes.

 Other Tribal applicants such as descendants, etc.

 At least 16 years of age or older, and

 GPA of 2.0 or higher.

To apply online: www.WTCAC.org

For more information contact: WTCAC1@gmail.com or 

call at 715-821-0555.

The Washington Center (TWC)

Academic internship program enables students to gain the 

experience needed for entry-level employment and to 

prepare for lives of achievement, engagement and 

leadership.

Eligibility:

 Be at least 18 years of age.

 Attend an accredited college or university and have 

status as a sophomore or above during the term of their 

internship.

 Maintain a grade point average (GPA) of at least 2.75 on 

a 4.0 scale. Students with lower GPAs may be considered.

 Receive academic credit from their college or university 

for their participation in the internship program. TWC 

does not grant credit directly.

 Have the approval of their campus liaison or a faculty 

sponsor if their institution does not have a campus 

liaison.

To apply online: 

http://www.twc.edu/internships/washington-dcprograms/eligibility

For more information contact: Nick Catanzaro and he can 

be reached at 202-238-7900 and 202-238-7995, and his 

email address is nick.catanzaro@twc.edu.
USDA - OHRM – Diversity, Recruitment, and Work/Life Division| Students Employment Opportunities Page 14 of 25

USDA offers internship and training opportunities for talented student veterans and their spouses.

Vets to Feds Intern Program (V2F) 

The V2F Information Technology (IT) Internship program is 

designed to fill mission critical positions and allow student 

veterans to continue to perform valuable service to the 

American people while jump-starting their civilian Federal 

careers. Interns will receive full salary and benefits as well as 

challenging assignments, and formal professional/technical 

training.

Eligibility:

 Enrolled or accepted for enrollment as a degree student 

(diploma, certificate, etc.) in an accredited institution

 Taking at least a half time academic, vocational, or 

technical course load as determined by the school

This rigorous paid program includes:

 Formal and informal training,

 Challenging work assignments and

 Potential for accelerated promotions.

If you are selected for this opportunity, students will:

 Complete any required technical training and 

certifications,

 Be eligible to non-competitive conversion into career 

positions,

 Earn a full-time salary at the GS-3/4/5 grade level into 

the 2299/2210 IT series, and

 Be entitled to a benefit package including paid vacation, 

sick leave, health and life insurance, a retirement plan, a 

401k equivalent plan, and paid federal holidays.

For more information, or to apply contact:

Veterans.EmploymentProgram@dm.usda.gov

Website: http://www.fedshirevets.gov/vets2feds/index.aspx

VA, Vocational Rehabilitation & Employment (Non-Paid 

Work Experience) (VA-VRE)

The Veterans Administration, Vocational Rehabilitation &

Employment (VA-VRE) program provides a source for 

Veterans to gain non-paid work experience with the intent to 

hire after their training is over. Any degree from a 

Department of Education accredited college or university, 

including online schools, is accepted. The program may also 

offer transportation subsidies; please contact the program 

coordinator for more information. 

Eligibility:

 Accepted for enrollment or enrolled in a certificate, 

degree or diploma program on at least a half-time basis, 

 Sign a participant agreement with USDA,

 Age requirement is based on the labor laws of the State 

or District,

 Must submit DD-214 certification and/or certification of 

disability for veteran preference, 

 Must meet the qualification standards of the position, 

and

 Must meet security clearance or fit requirements.

For more information, or to apply contact:

Veterans.EmploymentProgram@dm.usda.gov

Deadlines to apply: Year-round

Success Story

David Najafi, former VA-VRE Intern 2011, 

converted to permanent employee in 2012. 

Hands-on training from day one to the end of 

my internship.
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Workforce Recruitment Program (WRP)

The Workforce Recruitment Program for College Students 

with Disabilities (WRP) is a recruitment and referral program 

ready to help student with disabilities search summer or 

permanent positions in the federal government. The WRP 

database contains profiles of student job candidates from 

more than 200 colleges and universities nationwide, 

representing all majors, and ranging from college freshmen to 

graduate students and law students.

Eligibility:

 Be U.S. citizen

 Have a disability 

 Be enrolled in an associate, undergraduate or graduate 

degree seeking school 

 Transcripts

*Student must be accepted to the WRP program to be placed 

in a paid internship position at USDA.

To apply to WRP program, visit the WRP student portal:

https://wrp.gov/LoginPre.do?method=login

For more Information, contact:

disabilityemploymentprogram@dm.usda.gov.

USDA offers internships opportunities for talented students with disabilities, and targeted disabilities, seeking professional work 

experience.

Success Story

Jeanna Ramos, current USDA Intern, 2013.

As an intern at the USDA Forestry Service’s Willamette and Siuslaw National Forest office, I created a training program titled “Little 

Things Mean a Lot” that is now used in the Oregon and Washington State district offices. I am a native Oregonian with Hispanic 

heritage, interning as an Equal Employment Specialist and Diversity Trainer for the Civil Rights Unit. The program was based upon 

Secretary Thomas J. Vilsack’s USDA Cultural Transformation (CT) initiative. The training teaches values, respect, and team work and 

provides Cultural Transformation strategy tools. The training program allows employees and supervisors to practice what they 

learned, so Cultural Transformation can become second nature to FS employees and supervisors. I have dyslexia, ADHD and a 

physical disability that only permits me to sit for a certain amount of time. My advice for people with disabilities: Do not be afraid 

to talk about your disabilities with others. Work hard, don’t quit. We have a voice. Be proud and never give up. I will be accepting a 

permanent position at the USDA, Forest Service, in June 2013 upon completion of my master’s degree at Oregon State University. 

My master’s thesis is titled, “The Experiences of Women of Color, Working in Natural Resources.” I’m looking forward to being a 

fulltime Forestry Service employee because I can be in a happy work environment and be in an agency where I feel valued and not 

as a second class individual. This is where I want to finish my career. The U.S. Forest Service; they fight for equality, fairness and 

justice.
USDA - OHRM – Diversity, Recruitment, and Work/Life Division| Students Employment Opportunities Page 16 of 25

USDA offers volunteer opportunities for students and career professionals who need professional work experience and/or academic 

credit.

Dig into Rare and Special Collections Volunteer Experience 

(DRSCVE) 

The National Agricultural Library (NAL) is one of four U.S. 

national libraries, houses the largest most accessible 

agricultural collection in the world, and is the nexus for a 

national network of state land-grant and USDA field libraries. 

Projects may entail: organize inventory, create databases and 

archival finding guides for special collections of photographs, 

catalogs, papers and memorabilia; web site page creation and 

content building; bibliometric analysis of e-journals; and 

more. This volunteer experience opportunity is available for 

academic credit or on a volunteer basis. The program offers a 

flexible schedule: Monday through Friday and is offered yearround.

To apply or for general questions contact:

 Main Point of Contact: Theresa.Ridgewaya@ars.usda.gov

 For the National Invasive Species Information Center: 

Joyce.Bolton@ars.usda.gov

 For DigiTop, USDA's Digital Desktop Library: 

Stan.Kosecki@ars.usda.gov

Deadlines to apply: Year-round

Website: www.nal.usda.gov

Cesar Chavez Charter School Fellowship 

High School students gain professional experience from 

experts. They impact and develop innovative services, 

programs and exhibits.

To apply or for general questions contact: Stephanie Remick

via email at stephanie.remick@chavezschools.org. 

 Capitol Hill Campus.

 Parkside Campus.

 Parkside Campus

FSIS Volunteer Student Program (VSP)

The Volunteer Student Program (VSP) was established to 

formalize the relationship between FSIS and various Colleges 

of Veterinary Medicine for the purpose of providing training 

to veterinary and graduate students with an interest in food 

safety and public health. The VSP provides experience that is 

directly related to the student's education program and 

possible career goals. We have developed the VSP to provide 

students with valuable career-related work experience in our 

public health agency. If USDA doesn’t have a formal VSP 

agreement with the student's Colleges of Veterinary 

Medicine (CVM), the student can still participate in this 

program by signing a Student Agreement form. Please keep in 

mind that there is no guarantee that there will be a mentor 

available in the area the student would like or the date’s 

student has available.

If you have seen a Volunteer Student Program (VSP) flyer at 

your College of Veterinary Medicine, please follow the 

directions on the flyer. Otherwise, submit the following 

information to FSISStudentjobs@fsis.usda.gov:

 Name, 

 Current College of Veterinary Medicine (CVM) School, 

 Graduation Date, 

 Available Dates, 

 Location(s) of Interest, 

 (Please keep in mind that this is unpaid, so the ideal 

situation is somewhere close to family/friends or school.), 

 Resume, and

 Transcripts (unofficial is fine).

To apply:

http://www.fsis.usda.gov/careers/How_to_Indicate_Interest

_VSP/index.asp
USDA - OHRM – Diversity, Recruitment, and Work/Life Division| Students Employment Opportunities (SEO) Page 17 of 25

For general questions, contact:

FSISStudentjobs@fsis.usda.gov or 

christopher.baron@fsis.usdagov

Website: 

http://www.fsis.usda.gov/Careers/Volunteer_Student_Program/

index.asp

Higher Education Institution - Student Volunteer Program 

(HEISIP)

This program was established to formalize the relationship 

between USDA and various colleges and universities across 

the nation to provide training and work experience to 

undergraduate and graduate students with an interest in 

agriculture, science, technology, engineering, mathematics, 

and other administrative career fields. The HEISIP is a nonpaid internship opportunity. This program gives students an 

insight into considering a future career with USDA. Annually, 

USDA works with students volunteers nationwide throughout 

our 7 Mission Areas, 19 agencies and 16 Administrative 

Offices.

Eligibility:

 Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, some 

international students may qualify,

 Must be enrolled in high school or pursuing an 

undergraduate or graduate degree in an accredited 

institution (community colleges) or be a career 

professional, 

 Sign a volunteer participant agreement, 

 Must meet the qualification standards of the non-pay 

position, and

 Must meet security clearance.

Generally, volunteers/interns will be placed in non-paid 

position at the GS- 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9 grade levels. The

grade level is determined by the academic level of the 

volunteer. 

To apply:

 Check with your college/university to earn credit, seek 

stipend payment and/or travel/housing assistance, if 

needed. 

 Search www.USAJOBS.gov for a USDA Volunteer nonpaid internship vacancy announcements. 

For general questions, contact:

USDA.Internships@dm.usda.gov. 

Deadlines to apply: Year-round

Website:

http://www.dm.usda.gov/employ/student/index.htm

Law Student’s Volunteer Program (LSVP)

The USDA Law Student’s Volunteer Program (LSVP) is an

experiential program being offered to Law School students 

who are possibly interested in a career in public service,

specifically working for the federal government. Here they 

can exercise their legal knowledge, skills and abilities through 

work on policy and administrative issues that affect the lives 

of everyday citizens. The LSVP is an externship and law 

students will receive academic credit from their schools at 

the end of their volunteer service with USDA. The LSVP is 

either a quarter or semester term commitment (quarter - 3 

months or semester - 6 months). Many law schools and 

professional programs require their students to acquire 

public service experience for academic credit towards 

graduation. Since it is a graduation requirement students are 

encouraged to engage with federal agencies which for many 

students is as important as earning money.

Eligibility: 

 Be a U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident

 Must be pursuing law degree in an accredited university

 Sign a volunteer agreement 

 Sign up for School internship or externship to receive 

credit

 Must meet the qualification standards of the non-pay 

position

 Must meet security clearance

To apply or for general questions, contact:

USDA.Internships@dm.usda.gov

NIFA Volunteer Program

This program is designed to help students experience working 

in a federal government setting, to assist them in applying 

various theories and skills, and to enhance their personal 

growth and development. Every intern will have a unique 

experience while working at the National Institute of Food 

and Agriculture whether they are earning University credit or 

an hourly wage; nevertheless it will be an experience that is 

invaluable later in life. Emerging into adulthood is not an easy 

transition and one that often comes with many questions, 

highs, and lows. It is our goal that your participation in the 

internship program helps to ease the transition by preparing 

you for a career, whether it is in the federal government or 

another place of interest. 
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Eligibility:

 Be a U.S. citizen

 Must be pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree 

in an accredited college or university

 Sign a volunteer agreement 

 Must meet the qualification standards of the non-pay 

position

 Must meet security clearance

To apply: dswanson@nifa.usda.gov

For general questions, contact: Eboni.Wiggins@ars.usda.gov

Deadline to apply: April for summer session

NRCS Earth Team Volunteers (NRCSETV) 

The National Volunteer Program became known as the “Earth 

Team”, the volunteer arm of the Natural Resources 

Conservation Service. The primary purpose of the Earth Team 

is, and always has been, to expand NRCS services by using 

volunteer time, talent, and energy to help meet agency 

needs. NRCS employees at the national, regional, state, and 

local level recruit and utilize volunteers for a wide variety of 

activities. As it was in the beginning, the Earth Team is 

looking for volunteers who have an interest in conserving 

natural resources.

Eligibility:

 14 years of age or older

 Interested in agricultural, management and business 

fields

 Available for part-time, evenings or weekends, and/or 

outdoors, or in local or field offices.

Deadlines to apply: Year-round

To apply online:

http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/detail/national/p

eople/volunteers/?cid=stelprdb1041482

For general questions contact: Amanda N. Hasemeier and 

Linda Bouc at scholarships@nophnrcse.org or

linda.bouc@lin.usda.gov

Website: www.nrcs.usda.gov/feature/volunteers

V. Scholarships by Professional Organizations 

The National Organization of Professional Hispanic Natural Resources Conservation Service 

Employees (NOPHNRCSE)

NOPHNRCSE offers three academic scholarships annually for deserving students who are pursuing a degree in an Agriculture, Natural 

Resources, or natural resources conservation-related fields of study at an accredited institution of higher education. The award 

amount is $1,000. The award was established by notable members and their families to encourage new generations of Hispanics to 

pursue careers in Agriculture. 

Eligibility:

 Graduating High School students accepted to an 

accredited college or university and registered fulltime students with at least one full academic year 

remaining before graduation,

 Demonstrate integrity, ability, and competence in 

work,

 Show interest in pursuing a career in Natural 

Resources Conservation,

 Have a grade point average of at least 2.75 on a 4.0 

scale, and

 Submit completed application form and requested 

documentation.

For more information please contact:

Scholarships@nophnrcse.org

Website: http://www/nophnrcse.org
Student Employment Opportunities Booklet

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VI. Tips on USDA Career Opportunities

General Facts

Methods to learn about USDA and how to search for and apply to available career opportunities 

LEARN

about USDA 

Mission 

Areas

www.USDA.gov

Agencies by Mission Area:

 Farm and Foreign Agricultural Services:

Farm Service Agency - www.fsa.usda.gov

Foreign Agriculture Service - www.fas.usda.gov

Risk Management Agency- www.rma.usda.gov

 Food, Nutrition and Consumer Services: 

Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion - www.cnpp.usda.gov

Food and Nutrition Service - http://www.fns.usda.gov

 Food Safety:

Food Safety and Inspection Service - www.fsis.usda.gov

 Marketing and Regulatory Programs:

Agricultural Marketing Service - www.ams.usda.gov

Animal Plant Health Inspection Service - www.aphis.usda.gov

Grain Inspection, Packers, and Stockyards Administration - www.gipsa.usda.gov

 Natural Resources and Environment:

Forest Service - www.fs.fed.us

Natural Resources Conservation Service - www.nrcs.usda.gov

 Research, Economics, and Education:

Agricultural Research Service - www.ars.usda.gov

Economic Research Service - www.ers.usda.gov

National Agricultural Library - www.nal.usda.gov

National Agricultural Statistics Service - www.nass.usda.gov

 Rural Development: www.rd.usda.gov

Rural Business and Cooperative Programs 

Rural Housing

Rural Utilities

SEARCH

for USDA 

Vacancies

www.USDA.USAJo

bs.gov 

 Create a profile under "My Account." The profile account is a security tool used by USAJOBS to ensure 

that information being submitted by applicants is maintained in a secure environment. 

 Create or upload resume. 

 Search for vacancy announcements and save them in your profile.

 Review vacancy announcements for eligibility, qualifications, and closing dates and follow the 

instructions to apply.

 Proceed to apply and complete the application.

 Print a copy of your application for your records.

 Human Resources Specialists review applications for their agency posted vacancy announcements. 

Contact the Human Resource Specialist listed in each vacancy announcement, for which you applied, to 

inquire on the status of your application. Be sure to have the job locator number, located in the vacancy 

announcement, to reference your application.

General 

Information 

and 

Resources

 For recruitment questions, contact the Department Student Employment Program Manager, Wenndy 

Carrasco at USDA.Internships@dm.usda.gov

 For specific questions about Pathways Programs: Askusdapathways@dm.usda.gov

 Pay Level or General Scale (GS) levels for internships vary based on the position, and level of academic 

and related experience.

 Pay Scale can be found at: www.OPM.gov, click on “View Salary Tables” 

 Most position announcements include the salary and GS level in the posting.

 USDA Jobs through USAJobs.gov: www.USDA.USAJOBs.gov

 USAStudentJobs.gov: www.studentjobs.gov

 Office of Personnel Management Website: http://www.opm.gov/employ/students/index.asp
Student Employment Opportunities Booklet

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VII. Student Employment Opportunities Point of Contacts

Agencies Programs

Agency Contact Email Phone

Department Management (DM) Wenndy Carrasco

(Oversees the recruitment & outreach 

aspects of the student programs)

wenndy.carrasco@dm.usda.gov 202-260-8335

Marcus Brownrigg

(Oversees Pathways Program Policy)

marcus.brownrigg@dm.usda.gov 202-260-8724

Carol Scott

(Oversees students training and 

development ONLY for Pathways)

carol.scott@dm.usda.gov 202-504-8364

Farm and Foreign Agricultural Services 

(FFAS)

Farm Services Agency

Risk Management Agency

Foreign Agriculture Service

Martha Gravagna

(Serves FSA, and AMS)

Greerie B. Lewis

(Serves AMS, APHIS, GIPSA and FAS)

Keisha.Jones@wdc.usda.gov

Geeriee.B.Lewis@aphis.usda.gov

202-401-0228

301-851-2870

Food, Nutrition and Consumer Services

Food and Nutrition Service

Center for Nutrition Policy and 

Promotion 

Maybelline Soto

(Serves FNS and CNPP)

StudentProgram@fns.usda.gov 703-305-2813

Food Safety

Food Safety and Inspection Service

Robbie Terry

Dwaynya (DeeDee) Goodson

fsisstudentjobs@fsis.usda.gov 202-205-4284

Natural Resources and Environment 

(NRE)

Forest Service

Natural Resources Conservation Service

Sonia Montoya

(Serves FS)

ssmontoya@fs.fed.us 505-563-9338

Michelle Williams

(Serves NRCS and OEM)

michelle.williams4@wdc.usda.gov 816-229-5113 ext 

112

Marketing and Regulatory Programs 

(MRP)

Agricultural Marketing Service; 

Animal and Plant Health Inspection 

Service; 

Grain Inspection, Packers, and 

Stockyards Administration

Greerie B. Lewis

(Serves AMS, APHIS, GIPSA & FAS)

Geeriee.B.Lewis@aphis.usda.gov 301-851-2870

Clifton Gilchrist

(serves as recruiter for student 

programs)

clifton.gilchrist@ams.usda.gov 202-720-0583

Research, Education and Economics 

(REE)

Agricultural Research Service

National Agricultural Statistics Service 

National Institute of Food and 

Agriculture

Economic Research Service

Cathy Walker

(Serves ARS)

cathy.walker@ars.usda.gov 301-504-4418

Mary DeNardo

(Serves NASS)

mary_denardo@nass.usda.gov 202-720-4971

Eboni Wiggins

(Serves NIFA)

eboni.wiggins@ars.usda.gov 301-504-1757

Loretta Miller 

(Serves ERS)

erssummerinterns@ers.usda.gov 202-694-5379

Rural Development (RD) Dominique Young 

(serves as student coordinator)

Leopoldo Gomez 

(serves as training coordinator)

dominique.young@wdc.usda.gov

torrie.mitchel@wdc.usda.gov

leopoldo.gomez@wdc.usda.gov

202-692-0199

202-720-0815

202-692-0223
Student Employment Opportunities Booklet

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Administrative Offices Programs 

Agency Contact Email Phone

Office of the Inspector General Arviet Thorpe Arviet.thorpe@oig.usda.gov 202-720-6997

USDA Information Technology 

Internship Program (ITIP)

Margaret Smith margaret.smith@ocio.usda.gov 202-694-5260

USDA National Appeal Division 

(NAD)

Steven Placek and Lisa 

Cunningham

steven.Placek@nad.usda.gov;

lisa.Cunningham@nad.usda.gov

703-305-1153; 

703-305-1158

USDA Workforce Recruitment 

Program (WRP)

Natalie Veeney disabilityemploymentprogram@dm

.usda.gov

202-260-8050

Office of Chief Financial Officer 

(OCFO)

Shandon Davis Shandon.davis@nfc.usda.gov 504 - 426-0340

Third Party Internship Providers (Contractors)

Agency Contact Email Phone

Conference on Asian Pacific 

American Leadership CAPAL 

programs (CAPAL)

Carmen Ye scholarships@capal.org or 

info@capal.org or 

applications@capal.org

n/a

USDA HACU National Internship

Program (HNIP)

Jessica Castro jessica.castro@osec.usda.gov 202-720-6506

Junior Agricultural Ambassador 

Program (JAAP)

Vladimir Diaz (FL & PR)

Juan Alvarez (CA & WA)

Ruby de La Garza (TX)

vladimir.diaz@osec.usda.gov

juan.alvarez@osec.usda.gov

ruby.deLaGarza@osec.usda.gov

305-237-8550

559-278-8311

956- 587-2656

Summer Youth Employment 

Program (SYEP)

Call to speak with a team 

member:

youthjobs@dc.gov 202-698-3492

One City High School Internship 

Program (OCHISP)

Student Conservation Association 

(SCA)

SCA partnership team: 

(Northeast, Great lakes, 

Southeast, Northwest, West)

admissions@thesca.org or

oncampus@thesca.org

603-543-1700

Washington Internships for Native 

Students (WINS) 

Amy Morrill Bijeau morrill@american.edu 202-895-4967

Vets to Feds Intern Program (V2F)

Roseal Fowlkes Veterans.EmploymentProgram@d

m.usda.gov

202-260-8375 VA, Vocational Rehabilitation & 

Employment (Non-Paid Work 

Experience) (VA-VRE)

Wisconsin Tribal Conservation 

Advisory Council (WTCAC)

Jerry Thompson wtcac1@gmail.com 715-821-0555

The Washington Center Nick Catanzaro nick.catanzaro@twc.edu 202-238-7900 

202-238-7995
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Do you know that USDA geneticist and technicians use gel electrophoresis and 

fluorescent plate readers to identify plants with markers associated with traits 

of interest, which allows the most efficient selection of corn plants with 

beneficial traits? - Agricultural Research Service

VIII. Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who qualifies to apply for the USDA Pathways 

Internship Program?

A student who is: a U.S. Citizen or U.S. Permanent 

Resident; at least 16 years of age; currently enrolled 

or accepted for future enrollment in an accredited 

school (including high schools, home-schools, 

certificate programs, college/university), available 

for full-time or part-time work; a G.P.A. of 2.0 or 

higher; and meets the requirements of the vacancy. 

2. Who qualifies to apply for the USDA Pathways 

Recent Graduates Program?

Recent graduates who have completed, within the 

previous two years, a qualifying Associates, 

Bachelor’s, Master’s, Professional, Doctorate, 

Vocational or Technical degree or certificate from a 

qualifying educational institution. Veterans unable 

to apply within two years of receiving their degree, 

due to military service obligation, have as much as 

six years after degree completion to apply.

3. Who qualifies to apply for the USDA Pathways 

Presidential Management Fellows (PMF) Program?

Individuals who have completed within the past two 

years, a qualifying advanced degree (e.g., Master’s 

or Professional degree). An individual may apply for 

the PMF Program more than once as long as he or 

she meets the eligibility criteria. However, an 

individual can become a Finalist and subsequently 

apply for the PMF Program.

4. If I graduate this spring and have not applied to 

another school am I still eligible for an internship?

If someone has just graduated from a degree 

program and has not yet applied to another school, 

the person will not qualify for an internship 

position. In order to qualify, the applicant must be 

currently enrolled in a degree or certificate program 

and/or have been accepted to another program. A 

student enrolled in GED courses and pursuing a GED 

diploma meets the definition of student. We strongly 

recommend graduates to apply to the recent 

graduates program. For more information send an 

email to USDA.internships@dm.usda.gov, or 

Askusdapathways@dm.usda.gov.

5. Are internships for the summer only?

In most cases, yes; however, some USDA internship 

opportunities are available throughout the year. 

Each agency and internship program has its own 

hiring criteria and deadlines. Students interested in 

learning more about internship opportunities, how 

to apply should contact the Agency Student 

Employment Coordinator and/or search 

www.USDA.USAJOBS.gov for vacancies.

6. What is the deadline to apply for the USDA 

Pathways Internship and/or the Recent Graduates 

Program, and when should I expect to hear if I have 

been selected?

For the Pathways Internship and Recent Graduate 

Programs the vacancy announcement will clearly 

provide the application period with a closing date. 

An applicant’s submission is reviewed by human 

resources professionals and qualified applicants are 

provided to the hiring manager. After reviewing the 

application of each qualified applicant, the hiring 

manager will contact the selected intern. This can 

take up to 2 weeks. Generally, summer internships 

are posted to www.USDA.USAJobs.gov beginning the 

last week of January through mid April. Notification 

of selection/placement is made between mid-April 

and mid-May for summer internships. Orientation 

day is typically held in mid-June for headquarter 

interns, and orientation for field interns start on 

their first day of work. For fall internships, 

applications are accepted for posted vacancies, 

beginning the last week of July through August. For 

spring internships, applications are accepted for 

posted vacancies from September through 
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Do you know that USDA scientists are working on 

biocatalytic and biomimetic reagents to produce carboncarbon and carbon-oxygen branched fatty acids, targeting 

materials with enhanced lubricity while preserving 

biodegradability? - Agricultural Research Service

November. All available internships are posted on 

www.usda.usajobs.gov. Input “student” in the 

“what” field for internship opportunities.

7. What is the deadline to apply for a

Volunteer/Unpaid Internship opportunity and 

when should I expect to hear the results?

To apply for unpaid volunteer opportunities, 

applications are accepted year round. We strongly 

suggest applicants begin searching for vacancy 

postings for the summer beginning the last week of 

January through mid April. Notifications of 

placements are made between mid-April and midMay of each year for summer. Orientation day starts 

in mid-June for headquarter interns, and orientation 

for field interns starts on their first day of work. For 

the fall and spring, go to www.usda.usajobs.gov and 

search for “student” where all available volunteer 

unpaid internships will be posted, or contact the 

Agency Student Employment Coordinator to get 

more specific details.

8. How much will students get paid? 

Most intern position announcements provide the 

salary and GS level in the vacancy announcement. 

The term "GS" stands for General Schedule. It is a 

Federal Government pay-scale. As such, pay scales 

for internships vary based on the position, level of 

experience, and educational level achieved. The 

Federal Government Pay Scale can be found at: 

www.OPM.gov, click on “View Salaries and Wages”. 

9. How long are summer internships? 

Summer internships vary in length of time based on 

agency need and position. Generally internships can 

begin anytime in May or June and usually end in 

August. Terms of employment may be negotiated on 

a case-by-case basis with the hiring manger.

10. How many interns will USDA hire?

Annually, USDA hires approximately 5,000 to 8,500 

students nationwide. This number varies each year 

and is based on workforce needs and funding 

availability. 

11. Where are internship and recent graduates’

opportunities located?

Internship, Recent Graduate, and Volunteer/Unpaid

opportunities are located across the United States 

and the District of Columbia as well as U.S. 

Territories/Possessions including American Samoa, 

Navassa Island, Northern Mariana Islands, Jarvis 

Island, Baker Island, Guam, Howland Island, 

Johnston Atoll, Kingman Reef, Midway Islands, 

Palmyra Atoll, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, and 

Wake Atoll. Each vacancy announcement lists the 

location of the opportunity.

12. Where can I find information about USDA, Mission 

Areas and Agencies/Offices?

Visit our website, www.usda.gov. Scroll down until 

you see "Mission Areas and Offices" to learn about 

our 7 Mission Areas, 19 Agencies, or 16 Offices.

13. Sustainability is an initiative. Are there internships 

for those with Sustainability Studies majors?

Yes. Students with diverse majors and interests are 

sought by USDA agencies for work on the 

Sustainability Initiative. Agencies more likely to be 

focused on the balance between economic growth 

and conservation, environmental policies, and ethics 

would be Agricultural Research Service (ARS), 

Economic Research Service (ERS), Forest Service, 

Natural Resources and Conservation Service (NRCS), 

National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA), 

and Rural Development (RD) to name a few. If you 

are interested, visit the Mission Area Natural 

Resources and Environment which has two agencies: 

Forest Service (http://www.fs.fed.us/fsjobs/) and 

Natural Resources Conservation Service 

(http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/about/employment.html

) 

14. If an applicant is particularly interested in a 

discipline, for example, Soil Science, where can this 

applicant apply for an internship?

If an applicant’s interest is soil science, the applicant 

should search and apply on www.usda.usajobs.gov 

for any internship, volunteer or recent graduate 

opportunity offered through the Agricultural 

Research Service, Forest Service, National Institute 

of Food and Agriculture, and Natural Resources 

Conservation Service.
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15. If an applicant is particularly interested in a 

discipline, for example, Animal Science, where can 

this applicant apply for an internship?

If an applicant’s interest is animal science, the 

applicant can search on USAjobs.gov and apply for 

any internship, volunteer or recent graduate 

opportunity offered through the Agricultural

Marketing Services; Agricultural Research Service; 

Animal Plant Health Inspection Service; Grain 

Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration; 

and National Institute of Food and Agriculture.

16. If an applicant is particularly interested in a 

discipline, for example, Agricultural Management, 

where can this applicant apply for an internship?

If an applicant’s interest is agricultural management, 

the applicant can search on USAjobs.gov and apply 

for any internship, volunteer or recent graduate 

opportunity offered through the Agricultural

Marketing Services; Agricultural Research Service; 

Animal Plant Health Inspection Service; Farm Service 

Agency; Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards 

Administration; and National Institute of Food and 

Agriculture.

17. If an applicant is particularly interested in a 

discipline, for example, IT Computer Science, where 

can this applicant apply for an internship?

If an applicant’s interest is IT computer science, the 

applicant can search on USAjobs.gov and apply for 

any internship, volunteer or recent graduate 

opportunity offered through the Agricultural

Marketing Services; Agricultural Research Service;

Animal Plant Health Inspection Service; Economics 

Research Services; Farm Service Agency; Food and 

Nutrition Services; Food Safety and Inspection 

Service; Forest Service; Grain Inspection, Packers and 

Stockyards Administration; National Institute of 

Food and Agriculture; and Rural Development.

18. How long is my application kept after I apply? Do I 

need to apply again after the summer for the 

Fall/next year?

You must apply to each vacancy announcement 

separately. Your file is only maintained for the 

position to which you apply. 

19. What work schedule is expected of an Intern?

Your work schedule will depend on the requirements 

of the position and need by the Agency. The hiring 

manager will determine your work schedule, to 

include hours, days of the week, and start and end 

dates. 

20. Do I have to write an essay?

No. Essays are not required. A complete online 

application is required to compete for all USDA 

student employment programs.

21. What happens after the completion and conversion 

process of the USDA Pathways Internship Program?

Interns may be converted to a permanent position 

or, in some limited circumstances, to a term position 

lasting 1-4 years, within 120 days of successful 

completion of the program. This type of position will 

be identified in the vacancy announcement as 

conversion eligible. To be eligible for conversion, 

Interns must:

o Complete at least 640 hours of work experience 

acquired through the Internship Program.

o Complete degree or certificate requirements.

o Meet the qualification standards for the position 

to which the Intern will be converted.

o Meet agency-specific requirements as specified in 

the Participant’s Agreement

o Perform their job successfully

o Agencies may waive up to 320 of the required 640 

hours of work for Interns who demonstrate high 

potential as evidenced by outstanding academic 

achievement and exceptional job performance.

o In addition, students working in agencies through 

third-party internship providers may use up to 320 

hours toward the 640 hour requirement.

o Time spent under previous Internship Program 

appointments may count towards required work 

experience hours.

22. What happens after completion of the USDA Pathways 

Recent Graduates Program?

Recent Graduates may be converted to a permanent 

position or, in some limited circumstances a term 

appointment lasting 1-4 years. To be eligible for 

conversion, Recent Graduates must have:

o Successfully completed at least 1-year of continuous 

service in addition to all requirements of the 

Program.

o Demonstrated successful job performance.
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o Met the qualifications for the position to which the 

Recent Graduate will be converted.

23. What happens after the completion of the PMF 

program?

After successful Program completion and job 

performance, the PMF may be converted to a permanent 

position or, in some limited circumstances a term 

appointment lasting 1-4 years in the competitive service.

24. What about English Language proficiency?

Successful candidates for internships, recent graduates 

and fellowships will possess skills in listening, reading, 

speaking and writing in English. It is recommended that 

applicants are able to write comprehensively in English 

as an intern.

United States Department of Agriculture

Student Employment Opportunities (SEOs)

Diversity, Recruitment, and Work/Life Division 

Office of Human Resources Management

1400 Independence Avenue, S.W. – Room 17-W

Washington, D.C. 20250

“USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.”

It is commonly said that everyone who eats, wears clothes, lives in a house or visits a rural area or a 

national forest benefits from the Department. USDA remains committed to assisting America's farmers and 

ranchers, but it does much more than that.

Come work for USDA!

Did you know?

USDA leads the federal anti-hunger effort with the Food Stamp, School Lunch, School Breakfast and Special Supplemental Program for 

Women, Infants and Children (WIC) programs,

USDA is the steward of our nation's 192 million acres of national forests and rangelands,

USDA is the country's largest conservation agency, encouraging voluntary efforts to protect soil, water and wildlife on the 70 percent of 

America's lands that are in private hands,

USDA brings housing, modern telecommunications and safe drinking water to rural America,

USDA is responsible for the safety of meat, poultry and egg products,

USDA is a research leader in everything from human nutrition to new crop technologies that allow us to grow more food and fiber using less 

water and pesticides, and

USDA helps ensure open markets for U.S. agricultural products and provides food aid to needy people overseas.