Economics (Student Trainee)

Summary

Make an impact while you learn. The Semester of Service Program offers students a volunteer project-based opportunity to support real Federal missions, gaining hands-on experience and career-ready skills. Students must be enrolled at least half-time in an accredited trade school, technical/vocational institute, junior college, college, university, or other accredited educational institution. With this project, you'll support research economist by updating the SNAP Distribution Schedule Database

Major duties

Update the ERS SNAP Distribution Schedule Database through 2025 or 2026. Update will be accomplished by using currently publicly available data, including web histories, press releases and news postings.

All updates should be documented in statistical software (R, Python, Stata, or SAS preferred).

Current documentation should reflect (a) the method of update and (b) relevant contents of updates.

Qualifications

Applicants will be considered based on their knowledge, skills or abilities related to project needs. Specifically, applicants should have experience in: Skills in software program of their choice (e.g., SAS, Stata, Python, Matlab, R), including exporting results in spreadsheet form. Internet search and organizational skills. Familiarity with and ability to work in Excel.

Requirements

To participate in this Program, you must: Must be a U.S. Citizen or U.S National studying in the U.S. or abroad. International students on valid visas may participate if they meet applicable immigration, visa, and agency authorities. Be enrolled not less than half-time in an accredited trade school, technical or vocational institute, junior college, college, university, or other accredited educational institution. Be in good academic standing as defined by your institution. Commit to volunteering 8 - 20 hours per week for a minimum of 90 days. Complete all required onboarding documentation assigned by the Federal agency and your academic institution. Agree to volunteer. This position is unpaid. No compensation, stipends, or hiring preference will be granted from this work. You may use this volunteer experience to qualify for future jobs you choose to apply for. Agree to understanding volunteers are not Federal employees.