The USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS) offers multiple pathways for students to gain experience in agricultural science and research. As the principal in-house research agency of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, ARS addresses challenges in food safety, nutrition, crop production, and environmental sustainability.

Program Options: The Student Internship Program serves high school through graduate students with duties aligned to academic and career goals, with positions up to GS-11 grade. The Recent Graduates Program provides one-year developmental positions for degree holders within two years of graduation. STEM positions may reach GS-11 and GS-12 levels.

HACU Partnership: Through the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities, ARS offers paid internships at $15.25/hour for undergraduates and $17.00/hour for graduate students, with three annual intake periods. Participants attend orientation in Washington, DC.

Presidential Management Fellows: Advanced degree holders can pursue leadership positions through the competitive PMF program, targeting excellence in public service management.

Eligibility: Requirements vary by program but generally include maintaining good academic standing (2.0-3.0 GPA minimum), U.S. citizenship for some programs, and meeting enrollment or degree-completion timelines.

How to Apply: Most positions are posted on USAJobs.gov. HACU and PMF programs have dedicated application portals.