FFA members, did you know about the different opportunities with the USDA for internships? Here’s a run down, with where to go to find more information! But pay attention – the window to apply is very short (January 22-26, 2018).
Who: Present collegiate students (sophomore status and above) or students having completed one full year of college, professional program, trade school, or other, with a direct interest in agriculture (production, law, communications, business, technology, etc.).
What: The USDA Internship Program provides paid and unpaid work experience to students who are in high school or pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree in an accredited college or university (including Home-Schooling, Certificate Programs and Community Colleges).
When: Semester-long internships each semester with scheduling variances – Spring, Summer, Fall.
Where: All over the United States, including at the USDA headquarters in Washington, D.C.
How Much: Compensation: PAID! Payment is tied to qualifications and location and will vary depending on status in school, location, etc. To find out what compensation you could apply for, visit www.opm.gov and check out the GS2-GS5 pay scales, then divide by 12 months, and that should give you an okay idea of where you might begin. Could even range from $2-6K.
How Can I Find out More: Summer 2018 internship application period open on January 22 and closes on January 26, and will be made available on www.USAjobs.gov – then look for One USDA Internships. Applications should also include one PDF document containing a resume and cover letter and an official transcript. Applicants will be notified on or around February 23. Fall 2018 internship application period will open in April 2018. Spring 2019 internship application period will open in September 2018.
Click here for a list of other internships opportunities with the USDA.