2

Usda Entry Level Jobs in Delaware (NOW HIRING)

Usda Entry Level information

What is a USDA entry level job?

USDA entry level jobs are positions within the United States Department of Agriculture that are designed for individuals just starting their careers or those with limited professional experience. These roles typically require a high school diploma or a bachelor's degree and include titles like Agricultural Technician, Program Assistant, or Student Trainee. Entry level positions offer opportunities to learn about agricultural policies, food safety, conservation, and rural development while providing on-the-job training and career advancement pathways within the federal government.

What types of projects or assignments can I expect as an entry-level employee at the USDA?

As an entry-level employee at the USDA, you may be involved in a variety of projects depending on your specific department, such as assisting with agricultural research, supporting food safety initiatives, collecting and analyzing data, or helping with administrative tasks. You will typically work under the guidance of experienced staff and collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, gaining exposure to federal processes and policies. This hands-on experience not only helps you understand the USDA’s mission but also provides valuable training that can lead to advancement within the agency.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a USDA entry level employee, and why are they important?

To thrive as a USDA Entry Level employee, you generally need a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as agriculture, biology, environmental science, or business, along with strong analytical and organizational skills. Familiarity with data management software, Microsoft Office Suite, and potentially GIS or laboratory information systems is often required. Strong communication, teamwork, and adaptability help you excel in collaborative and regulatory environments. These skills and qualifications are crucial for accurately supporting USDA programs, ensuring compliance, and contributing to the agency’s mission of promoting food safety and agricultural sustainability.

Do you need a degree to work for USDA?

For entry-level USDA positions, a degree is not always required; many roles accept relevant work experience or specialized training. However, some higher-level or technical jobs may require a bachelor's degree or higher. Candidates should review specific job postings for educational requirements and preferred qualifications.

What are common USDA entry level career paths?

USDA entry-level careers often include positions such as agricultural technician, food inspector, and research assistant. These roles typically require basic knowledge of agriculture, food safety, or environmental science, and may involve fieldwork, data collection, or laboratory tasks. Advancement can lead to supervisory or specialized roles with additional experience and certifications.
Infographic showing various Usda Entry Level job openings in Delaware as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution.

Food Services Associate

Community Education Building

Wilmington, DE • On-site

$15.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Support daily meal service operations, including setting up food stations and serving food when needed.

  • Handle cash transactions accurately and operate the point-of-sale (POS) system.

  • Conduct daily cleaning and sanitation of all Servery and kitchen areas and equipment.


Job description

Description:

POSITION SUMMARY

Join a mission-driven team where your work directly impacts students every day. If you enjoy working in a fast-paced environment, engaging with youth, and being part of a supportive community, this is an opportunity to make a meaningful difference.


Our Food Service Associate plays a vital role in our community by ensuring students receive USDA-compliant meals and the nourishment they need to learn, grow, and thrive each day. We are seeking a Food Service Associate at the Community Education Building (CEB) who will help support daily meal service operations for up to 1,200 students and staff. This role is responsible for maintaining a clean and orderly checkout area, accurately processing transactions, and providing excellent customer service to students, staff, and visitors.


The ideal candidate is organized, dependable, and personable, with a genuine enjoyment of working with children in a fast-paced environment. Responsibilities include handling small cash transactions, operating a computerized point-of-sale (POS) system, answering food service-related questions, and supporting food preparation between meal periods under the direction of the School Chef.


This position requires a strong commitment to professionalism, integrity, and purpose, while contributing to a positive and welcoming dining experience for all. This is an entry-level, hourly position with onsite parking provided.


KEY ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Collect and safely manage cash from daily meal transactions and a la carte purchases.
  • Properly sort, count and wrap bills and coins.
  • Operate a compliant Point of Sale (POS) service and POS computer system.
  • Ability to set up cafeteria, condiment, milk, and snack food stations.
  • Conduct daily cleaning and sanitation of all Servery and kitchen areas and equipment.
  • Knowledgeable of USDA Meal Program regulations to assure meal compliance.
  • Ability to educate children and staff of meal program requirements as necessary.
  • Prep salads and sandwiches, cup fresh fruits and vegetables per Chef.
  • Ability to calculate basic math including adding and subtraction.
  • Ability to read production sheets, recipes, weigh, and measure foods and properly package items.
  • Serve food on tray line when needed.
  • Prepare containers, food and meal counts for satellite site deliveries.
  • Assist with inventory, dish room and receiving deliveries.
  • Maintain a friendly demeanor with parents, students, teachers, and administration.
  • Maintain uniform appearance.
  • Attend scheduled meetings and workshops.
  • Ability to get to report to work on time for scheduled shift.
  • Communicate openly and professionally.
Requirements:

PERSONAL TRAITS AND STRENGTHS

  • Team player
  • Flexible
  • Client-service oriented

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

  • Ability to lift up-to 25lbs on occasion
  • Reaching above shoulder height and bending below waist
  • Stand for extended periods of time

EDUCATION AND QUALIFICATIONS

  • High School diploma or equivalent
  • Must pass criminal background check
  • School food service experience a plus

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

The CEB is an equal opportunity employer. We will extend equal opportunity to all individuals without regard to race, religion, color, sex, national origin, disability, age, genetic information, or any other status protected under applicable federal, state, or local law. Our policy reflects and affirms the CEB’s commitment to the principles of fair employment and the elimination of all discriminatory practices.