NRCS Makes Positions Available to Students

January 11, 2008

For More Information:
Sharon Huber, 406-587-6937
Robert Moler, 406-587-6842

Bozeman--Students interested in natural resource fields can gain practical experience by working with the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). The Student Career Experience Program (SCEP) provides an opportunity for high school and undergraduate students to participate in planned on-the-job training during the summer while attending college during the school year. NRCS will accept applications for ten positions across Montana until March 3, 2008. Applicants must be 16 years or older.

"These positions provide an opportunity for students to learn about conservation processes and make a difference in agricultural communities across Montana," said Dave Kascht, NRCS acting state conservationist. "By working with producers to implement conservation practices, SCEP students can help landowners reach their management goals."

Ten positions under the SCEP are available throughout Montana. Students selected to participate in the SCEP are required to work a minimum of 640 hours under the program, which normally takes two summers. Upon college graduation, student trainees may be converted to permanent employment with the NRCS in Montana. Work locations will vary each summer, so SCEP students need to be willing to work in any county in Montana. Wages will vary depending on the level of education and experience.

This announcement can be found on the USAJobs website, www.usajobs.opm.gov, under announcement number NRCS MT-08-0001. In this announcement, you will find eligibility requirements, application instructions, and required forms. For additional information, contact Sharon Huber, NRCS human resources officer, at (406) 587-6937. NRCS is an equal opportunity employer.

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"The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) prohibits discrimination in all its programs and activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, and where applicable, sex, marital status, familial status, parental status, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, political beliefs, reprisal, or because all or a part of an individual's income is derived from any public assistance program. (Not all prohibited bases apply to all programs.) Persons with disabilities who require alternative means for communication of program information (Braille, large print, audiotape, etc.) should contact USDA's TARGET Center at (202) 720-2600 (voice and TDD). To file a complaint of discrimination write to USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue, S.W., Washington, D.C. 20250-9410 or call (800) 795-3272 (voice) or (202) 720-6382 (TDD). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer."