Join our future workforce through the Resource Assistants Program.
Resource assistants help the Forest Service accomplish mission-critical work as we work to attract and retain a diverse and inclusive workforce.
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Forest Service Resource Assistants Program (RAP) is a rigorous and immersive, paid internship for individuals who are interested in conservation, natural and cultural resources, environmental management, research and development, or other career opportunities with land management agencies. The program emphasizes the engagement of current students, recent graduates, and underrepresented populations in natural and cultural resources work as Resource Assistants (RAs) as per 16 U.S. Code Chapter 37, Subchapter II – Resource Assistants Code §1725.
Benefits
- Practical, on-the-job experience in natural and cultural resource management careers
- Coaching and mentoring by Forest Service staff and partners
- Weekly stipend; housing, travel, and training allowances; and optional health care
- Networking access to career opportunities with Forest Service units
- Eligibility for the RAP Direct Hire and Noncompetitive Hiring Eligibility authorities for 2 years after successful completion of the program
Who can be a resource assistant?
Applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents over 17 years old. Preference is given to individuals enrolled in institutions of higher education, especially minority-serving institutions.
Visit forestservicestewardship.org for more information.
Apply Now
Resource Assistants Program opportunities are advertised through our partners’ job boards. Click on the links below to see current openings with our national partners.
Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources, and Related Sciences (MANRRS)
Regional partners include The Great Basin Institute, Northwest Youth Corps, Montana Conservation Corps, Conservation Legacy and Alaska Native Science and Engineering Program.