The USDA Agricultural Research Service in general, and the Southern Plains Agricultural Research Center in particular, offer interesting, challenging, and rewarding career opportunities to those interested in working to assure that agriculture remains the vital force in the American economy that it has historically been.  As a scientific research organization, the Center focuses on attracting talented scientists and support staff who can contribute significantly to the Center’s mission of goal-oriented research that solves problems affecting U.S. agriculture, and that helps assure ongoing agricultural productivity that meets the nation’s needs and contributes to a vibrant export market in a sustainable manner.  The Center employs Ph.D. level scientists in a number of disciplines including biology, chemistry, entomology, physiology, plant pathology, molecular biology, and others.  We periodically seek laboratory support staff at the Bachelor’s and Master’s level, trained in biology, chemistry, microbiology, and other disciplines.  Other support positions may require less formal education and training.  Administrative and office support staff well-versed in computer operations, office management, budgeting, procurement, etc., are required to assure that the Center is operated efficiently and under sound business practices.

Because the Center is sited immediately adjacent to Texas A&M University, we have historically employed, and continue to employ, a considerable number of student workers whose employment at the Center both assists in meeting the expenses of higher education and also provide experience and training than can be invaluable as these students make career decisions.  Over the years, many of the Center’s student workers have shifted the focus of their education so as to position themselves as competitive for employment within the Agricultural Research Service.  Several of these have competed successfully for permanent positions at the Center and are at present making significant contributions to the Center’s mission while experiencing a productive and rewarding career in the agricultural sciences.    

Click here for more information regarding current job opennings in the ARS