summer Agricultural Science Aid positions - usda

The USDA, Agricultural Research Service, Genetic Improvement of Fruits and Vegetables Laboratory in Beltsville, MD, is accepting applications for two temporary Agricultural Science Aid positions. Full-time work during the summer can transition to part-time during the school year if desired. US citizenship is required. Selective Service Registration is required for males 18 years old. Applicants must be capable of following directions, keeping detailed and accurate records, using a computer, willing and able to undertake some strenuous tasks in outdoor and greenhouse work environments, able to lift a minimum of 25 lbs, and have a valid US-issued driver’s license. Freshmen can be hired at a GS2 level ($14.99/hr) with 3 or more months of general work experience. Those with at least 6 semester hours in any combination of scientific or technical courses such as biology, chemistry, statistics, entomology, animal husbandry, botany, physics, agriculture, or mathematics, can be hired at a GS3 level ($16.36/hr). 

The project is about strawberry breeding with opportunities to learn basic skills and safety protocols in the field, and greenhouse, working with experienced technicians and scientists. We’re looking for students who want practical experience to support their careers in agriculture. E-mail Dr. Kim Lewers (Kim.Lewers@usda.gov) with your available dates, hours and resume; include contact information for listed references. It may seem early to apply for a summer job, but the hiring process takes at least two months after we select people for the job, so please consider reaching out today.

Pay table web site: https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/pay-leave/salaries-wages/salary-tables/23Tables/html/DCB_h.aspx

Field work includes planting, maintaining, weeding, and harvesting crop plantings, packaging fruit for further evaluation and maintaining plant identity through labeling. Greenhouse work includes transplanting seedlings, potting and propagating, fertilizing plants and managing pests with predator insects. In addition to on-the-job experience, access may be provided to Ag-Learn, a USDA on-line training site that provides excellent on-line training in many diverse areas important for all jobs: internet security awareness, environmentally friendly waste management, diversity in the workplace, MS Office proficiency, lab safety, and many others.