About the role#
The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service offers this student internship to provide a practical introduction to Soil Conservation Management Programs. This is a developmental role designed to build your skills in federal conservation practices while you complete your education. You will receive on-the-job training in agency policies and technical field work, with the goal of preparing you for a potential permanent position in soil conservation upon graduation.
What you'll do#
- Assist in program and conservation planning for soil and water practices, such as farm drainage systems, terraces, and waterways.
- Perform surveys and set construction stakes for various conservation projects.
- Operate specialized instruments like rods or chains to lay out practices.
- Manage data and files using personal computers.
- Participate in training sessions covering OPM and Department of Agriculture regulations, work processes, and agency policies.
What you'll need#
- Enrollment at least half-time at an accredited educational institution in a field such as Agriculture, Soil Science, or related natural resource disciplines.
- A minimum GPA of 2.5 or higher.
- Completion of at least 480 hours of work experience before finishing your degree.
- A valid state motor vehicle operator's license.
- US Citizenship or status as a US National.
- Registration with the Selective Service for males born after December 31, 1959.
- Ability to pass a background investigation, fingerprint check, and E-Verify employment verification.
Location & details#
This position is based on-site at various locations across the United States, including sites in Alaska, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, Washington, and Guam. Interns work full-time during summer breaks and may work part-time during the school year. You must sign a participant agreement and complete a trial period as part of your employment.
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
Securing an internship at the USDA requires a proactive approach to navigating federal hiring cycles. Because early applicants are often reviewed before the applicant pool becomes unmanageable, Intern Insider sends an instant alert the moment a role matching your target is published, helping you apply among the first. This timing can be the difference between your application being seen and getting lost in a large volume of submissions. You can also improve your response rates by reaching out to the recruiters behind these roles directly. Intern Insider surfaces the specific recruiters behind the USDA roles, allowing you to ask relevant questions about the position or inquire about a referral. Connecting with the right person often provides the clarity needed to stand out in a competitive government hiring process.
