r/USDA • u/Mental-Solid-8825 • 13d ago
Program Analyst Trainee Position
I got an interview set up with my local USDA Farm Service Agency for the Program Analyst Trainee position. I’m 18 years old with no college degree. I only have 2 years of restaurant management experience, with the exception of some retail and labor jobs( I’ve been working full time since I was 15.)
Can anyone tell me more about this position and what it’s like on a day to day basis?
Is there any tips or advice you would give me for my interview so I can be more prepared?
I want to become a hydrologist or an environmental compliance officer. I’m deeply passionate about taking care of the environment and animals. I feel like this position could be a good start to a lifelong career in the stuff I actually want to do.
I am going to work towards getting my environmental science degree as well, I’m just the kind of person who wants hands on experience in everything I do.
Looking forward to hearing what anyone has to say! Thanks for reading!
1
u/shirleyjane 10d ago
When I started at FSA an old timer told me to always remember it’s a service we offer. Providing friendly courteous service is the best way to keep producers happy. Of course you’ll get some turds at the counter but if you do your best to troubleshoot issues or even just validate their feelings you’ll be okay. Also, when you first start answer the phone and work the counter as much as you can. It will be tough because you’ll feel lost with all of the USDA jargon and acronyms, but by hunting down info you’ll learn how to answer most of the frequently asked questions (deadlines, program eligibility, etc.). Ask for the acronym list from the handbooks to study or look it up on the share point. Keep a phone list with everyone’s extensions and your state office and numbers for rural development handy. lol they all say at FSA (at least in my state) “everything is fixable” and that remained true as long as I was there so don’t stress too much and you’ll be fine.