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Veterans and Employment

Employment Resources for Veterans, Military Spouses, and Family Members

At USDA, we proudly support America's heroes by providing veterans and military spouses with the tools and opportunities needed for successful careers. Whether you're returning home or starting a new career, USDA offers a diverse range of employment options across more than 2,100 county offices nationwide and at our headquarters in Washington, D.C.

Career Opportunities

USDA values the skills and work ethic veterans bring, making them integral to our mission. Military experiences directly translate into USDA roles such as:

  • Criminal Justice
  • Soil Conservation
  • Contracting and Procurement
  • Information Technology
  • Food Inspection and Public Health
  • Fire Fighting
  • Finance
  • Economics

Our careers in agriculture are open to National Guard members, Reservists, transitioning service members, veterans, and military spouses. Last year alone, USDA hired 185 National Guard and Reserve members. Through the Military Veterans Agricultural Liaison (MVAL), USDA actively connects with the National Guard and Reserves through the Yellow Ribbon Program.

See examples of Army Reservists who have transitioned their military experience to civilian jobs at the USDA.
 

USDA Military Spouse and Veterans Program (MVP)

Housed within USDA’s Office of Human Resources Management, the Veterans Employment Program Office (VEPO) and Military Spouse Program (MSP) help military-connected individuals find roles that match their skills and interests.

Veterans Employment Program Office (VEPO)

Veterans Employment Program Office (VEPO)

The Veterans Employment Program Office is USDA’s centralized office to support the Department’s mission to advance veteran employment. The VEPO communicates the Government-wide Veterans’ Recruitment and Employment Strategic Plan to assist USDA Mission Areas and Agencies with recruitment, retention and promotion of veterans, disabled veterans, and transitioning servicemembers.

To advance these efforts USDA's VEPO provides:

  • Recruiting and Hiring: Supporting veterans and transitioning servicemembers interest in joining USDA related to employment, internship opportunities, and resume reviews.
  • Training and Development: Providing information and resources on use of the veterans hiring authorities, and assisting Mission Areas with building out their veterans programs
  • Policy and Implementation: Developing guidelines and procedures to ensure equitable access and support
  • Career Education and Awareness: Promoting opportunities for veterans, disabled veterans, and transitioning servicemembers seeking employment with USDA, including internship programs
  • Community and Culture: Cultivating a positive USDA veteran community by organizing events, encouraging participation, and promoting cultural awareness.

USDA is proud of its accomplishments related to veterans’ employment and we value the contributions they bring to the organization.  Veterans have made many sacrifices in support of our nation, and as the “People’s Department” we strive to give back to those who have served.
 

Hiring Authorities for Veterans

Internship Programs USDA Supports:

Resources for Veterans and Transitioning Servicemembers

Resources for Human Resources professionals

For more information on employment opportunities, DOD SkillBridge internship program and other related questions please contact VeteranHiring@usda.gov 

Military Spouse Program (MSP)

Military Spouse Program (MSP)

About the Program

The Military Spouse Program is designed to empower military spouses to pursue successful careers in agriculture. Aligned with USDA mission areas, the program offers tailored support to help military-connected spouses address the unique challenges of balancing employment with a military lifestyle. This includes providing resources and assistance designed to meet the specific needs of military life. The MSP aims to ensure that military spouses have the necessary support to navigate and succeed in their career pursuits despite the challenges posed by the military lifestyle through:

  • Employment Assistance: Coordination with USDA Mission Areas to assist in finding rewarding employment within USDA agencies.
  • Career Support: Connection with job search tools and career support information to navigate military-ordered relocations and all phases of military life.
  • Retention and Progression: Enhancement of career retention and progression through targeted support, mentorship, and comprehensive job connection strategies.
  • Training and Development: Connections to nonprofit organizations offering no-cost training, career exploration, and access to professional development resources.
  • Education and Awareness: Department-wide education to increase awareness of military spouse resources, support programs, policies, and workplace flexibilities.
  • Community and Culture: Cultivating a positive USDA military spouse community by organizing events, encouraging participation, and promoting cultural awareness.

Military spouses are encouraged to pursue rewarding careers in agriculture, with the support of a community that recognizes and values the sacrifices and contributions of military families.
 

Resources

Contact Us:

MilitarySpouses@usda.gov


USA Jobs

Explore job opportunities through USAJobs:


Hands-On Job Training for Veterans

Gain valuable skills and experience through USDA's on-the-job training programs:

  • Agricultural Commodity Graders: A 12-month training program through USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service, starting at GS-5/7

  • Wildland Firefighters: A 3,000 hour on-the-job learning program through USDA’s Forest Service, available positions include GS-3, 4/5, and 5

Information on these programs and other apprenticeships can be found on the Department of Labor’s website.

Explore opportunities through the Department of Defense’s SkillBridge program, offering industry training during the closing months of military service.


Forest Service

Learn more about Forest Service Veteran and Military-Related hiring.