About the role#
The USDA Economic Research Service is seeking an Economics Student Trainee for a volunteer, project-based position. You will support a research economist by updating the SNAP Distribution Schedule Database. This is an unpaid, part-time role requiring 8 to 20 hours of work per week for at least 90 days.
What you'll do#
- Update the SNAP Distribution Schedule Database through 2025 or 2026.
- Gather information using publicly available data, such as web histories, press releases, and news postings.
- Document your update methods and the contents of your work using statistical software.
- Complete all required onboarding documentation, safety training, and background checks.
What you'll need#
- Current enrollment of at least half-time in an accredited educational institution and good academic standing.
- Permission from your educational institution to participate.
- U.S. Citizenship or U.S. National status.
- Experience with statistical software such as SAS, Stata, Python, Matlab, or R.
- Ability to export results in spreadsheet form.
- Proficiency in Excel and strong internet research and organizational skills.
Location & details#
- This position is fully remote and open to students located anywhere in the United States.
- This is an unpaid volunteer opportunity. You are not considered a Federal employee, and this role does not provide compensation, stipends, or hiring preference.
About USDA
The United States Department of Agriculture is a federal executive department. It manages government policy regarding farming, food, and agriculture. The agency works to support ranchers and farmers while promoting agricultural trade. It also oversees food safety, rural community development, and natural resource protection. The department maintains offices in Washington, DC and other locations.
How to get in at USDA
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