Internship Program

Start your federal career with hands-on experience in an agency mission area that supports national research, technology development, innovation and public service. Through the internship program, students gain paid work experience while pursuing a qualifying educational program.

Eligibility

You must be a current student in an accredited high school, college (including 4-year colleges/universities, community colleges, and junior colleges); professional, technical, vocational, and trade school; advanced degree programs; or other qualifying educational institution pursuing a qualifying degree or certificate.

• Be a U.S. Citizen.
• Be enrolled at least half-time as defined by the education institution (typically six hours or equivalent for undergraduate and three hours or equivalent for graduate).
• Maintain good academic standing, generally, at least a 2.5 cumulative GPA for undergraduate programs and a 3.0 GPA for graduate programs, on a 4.0 grading scale.
• Meet the qualification standards (e.g., series and grade) of the advertised position.
• Must be at least 16 years of age.
• Must sign a Pathways Internship Program Participant Agreement; furnish course registration information at the start of each school term; and provide verification of academic status (transcript) at the end of each academic term.

What you’ll get

As a NIST intern, you’ll gain meaningful experience supporting real mission work in science, engineering, technology, and operations. You’ll work alongside NIST staff, contribute to active projects, and develop skills through hands-on assignments, professional mentorship, and exposure to a collaborative research environment.

Participants in the internship program any also be eligible for conversion to a full-time position after successfully completing internship requirements.

How to Apply

Applications may be announced throughout the year, depending on NIST hiring needs. To apply:

1. Search internship opportunities at USAJOBS for Students and Recent Graduates. For current openings with NIST, you must enter “National Institute of Standards and Technology in the keyword search.
2. Review the announcement carefully for eligibility, required documents, and conversion information.
3. Submit a resume, transcripts, and any required documents listed in the announcement
4. Referred candidates may be contacted for an interview