About the role#
This position is a paid student internship with the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service. It is designed for students enrolled in high school, college, or graduate programs who are interested in soil science. Interns gain hands-on experience through developmental assignments and work alongside experienced professionals. This role offers the possibility of non-competitive conversion to a permanent position upon successful completion of the program requirements.
What you'll do#
- Perform field examinations of soil using an auger.
- Determine soil types and estimate the amount of topsoil remaining.
- Compare soil samples with existing descriptions and legends to classify soil types.
- Assist in tabulating soil survey data and maintaining progress maps.
- Identify farm boundaries on aerial photographs and prepare mapping coverage.
- Attend soil survey office meetings.
- Maintain accurate daily records of work accomplishments and time distribution.
- Prepare and manage various technical reports and records.
What you'll need#
- Enrollment at least half-time in an accredited high school, college, or graduate institution.
- Pursuit of a degree or certificate in Soil Science, Pedology, Soil Chemistry, Soil Physics, Soil Fertility, or a related biological, physical, or earth science.
- A minimum GPA of 2.5 or higher.
- US Citizenship or status as a US National.
- A valid state motor vehicle operator's license.
- Registration with the Selective Service if you are a male born after December 31, 1959.
- Ability to complete at least 480 hours of work experience before graduating.
- Academic standing based on the following: GS-2 requires a high school diploma or GED; GS-3 requires one full academic year of post-high school study; GS-4 requires two full academic years of post-high school study.
Location & details#
- Location: Hamilton Square, New Jersey.
- Modality: Hybrid.
- Schedule: Full-time hours are required during summer breaks, with potential for part-time work during the school year.
- Requirements: A signed participant agreement, background investigation, and fingerprint check are required for 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.
