USDA Launches Veteran Hiring Push for Agriculture Security

Expanded SkillBridge opportunities and a new hiring campaign aim to connect military families with USDA careers.

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WASHINGTON, D.C. (RFD News) — USDA is accelerating recruitment of veterans, transitioning service members, and military spouses for jobs protecting the food supply, rural communities, and agricultural infrastructure. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins says the effort combines an expanded SkillBridge partnership with a new 100 Hires in 100 Days campaign.

SkillBridge allows eligible service members to spend up to their final 180 days gaining civilian work experience while continuing military pay and benefits. USDA is recruiting for cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, budgeting, contracting, geospatial analysis, forestry, and wildfire management.

Opportunities are concentrated near major USDA employment hubs in Colorado, Indiana, Missouri, North Carolina, Utah, and Washington. Applications are reviewed continuously to match assignments with military transition schedules.

The hiring campaign also uses veteran preferences and noncompetitive authorities to connect qualified veterans and spouses with department positions. Candidates may join USDA’s employment database in addition to applying through USAJobs.

USDA says military experience can strengthen animal health, conservation, digital services, emergency response, and producer assistance. Applicants should review eligibility, location requirements, and available positions through USDA’s veteran and SkillBridge resources.

Farm-Level Takeaway: USDA’s hiring campaign could strengthen rural services while creating new agricultural careers for military families.
Tony St. James, RFD News Markets Specialist

Tony St. James joined the RFD-TV talent team in August 2024, bringing a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to RFD-TV and Rural Radio Channel 147 Sirius XM. In addition to his role as Market Specialist (collaborating with Scott “The Cow Guy” Shellady to provide radio and TV audiences with the latest updates on ag commodity markets), he hosts “Rural America Live” and serves as talent for trade shows.

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