Description

When the Nation’s livestock is at risk, your skills can save the day. Will you step up?

The U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) is building a national Ready Response Corps—a team prepared to protect U.S. agriculture during emergencies caused by pests and diseases. From outbreaks like highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) to other critical threats, we need animal scientists and animal health technicians ready to serve in vital roles safeguarding our Nation’s livestock and poultry industries.

What You’ll Do

• Travel nationwide as part of a USDA emergency response team.
• Apply your expertise in animal handling, sample collection, and biosecurity measures.
• Support disease surveillance and outbreak containment activities.
• Work alongside veterinarians, producers, and State agricultural officials.
• Maintain accurate records and documentation during emergency events.

Recruitment incentive may be authorized but not guaranteed.

Find out more and apply on USAJobs - https://www.usajobs.gov/job/858165300

Requirements

Why Join?

• Contribute to protecting U.S. agriculture and supporting America’s farmers.
• Receive specialized training from APHIS to build skills and credentials.
• Federal employment as an Animal Health Technician with APHIS.
• Live anywhere in the United States, provided you are able to travel on short notice when needed.
• Build a public service career with impact and advancement opportunities

Benefits of Federal Employment

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
• Retirement plans including pension and Thrift Savings Plan (TSP)
• Generous paid leave: vacation, sick leave, federal holidays, plus overtime and per diem while deployed
• Full competitive status for career advancement within USDA APHIS and the Federal government after one year
• Eligible for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) after 10 years of service

Eligibility

• Experience in animal science, production systems, or livestock handling
• Willingness to travel on short notice to animal disease events
• View the full list of requirements in the announcement on USAJOBS (https://www.usajobs.gov/job/858165300)

Apply Today

Be part of a veterinary team that’s ready when America’s farmers need it most. View the job posting on USAJOBS.gov (https://www.usajobs.gov/job/858165300) and apply today. Application closes February 26, 2026.