About the role#
This is a paid, full-time Student Trainee position with the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service. You will gain hands-on experience in soil science through the Pathways Student Internship Authority. This role is designed for students currently enrolled at least half-time in an accredited educational institution. The internship takes place during the summer of 2027.
What you'll do#
- Perform field examinations of soils using an auger to collect soil borings.
- Work alongside experienced staff to determine soil types and assess remaining topsoil.
- Compare soil samples against existing descriptions and legends to classify soil types.
- Assist the MLRA Soil Survey Leader in tabulating survey data and maintaining progress maps.
- Identify farm boundaries on aerial photographs and prepare photo coverage for mapping.
- Attend office meetings and maintain accurate daily records of your work and time.
- Prepare and update various technical reports as required.
What you'll need#
- Enrollment at least half-time in an accredited high school, college, or graduate program.
- Minimum GPA of 2.5 or higher.
- Commitment to complete at least 480 hours of work experience before degree completion.
- Valid state motor vehicle operator's license.
- US Citizenship or status as a US National.
- Registration with the Selective Service for males born after 12/31/1959.
- Ability to pass a background investigation, fingerprint check, and E-Verify employment verification.
- Signed participant agreement.
Location & details#
- Location: Owensboro, Kentucky.
- Modality: Hybrid.
- Compensation: $35,749 - $47,334 per year.
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.
