NESDIS Internship For Engineering Students (Hiring 2025)

For students and recent graduates passionate about engineering and seeking a meaningful launchpad for their careers, the National Environmental Satellite, Data, and Information Service (NESDIS) Pathways Internship Program offers a fantastic opportunity. With openings like the Student Trainee (Engineering) role, this paid internship is designed to help students gain hands-on experience in engineering while contributing to real-world projects that impact environmental satellite and data services.

This program is perfect for driven individuals who want to blend academic knowledge with practical skills as part of their career development.

Program Overview:

The Student Trainee (Engineering) role allows interns to work alongside professional engineers, gaining experience in solving complex environmental satellite and data challenges. Through mentorship and a mix of hands-on assignments, interns will grow their skills while making meaningful contributions to NOAA’s mission.

Key Responsibilities:

Interns in this role will perform various tasks, including:

• Assisting experienced engineers with ongoing projects.
• Conducting investigations and tests to measure and record technical data.
• Researching and putting together technical reports for projects.
• Reviewing specifications used in developing engineering models or prototypes.

These assignments become progressively more advanced as interns grow their skills, preparing them for a professional engineering career.

Who Can Apply?

The NESDIS Pathways Internship Program is open to students currently enrolled in an accredited educational institution and in good academic standing. To qualify, applicants must:

• Be U.S. citizens and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale.
• Be enrolled at least half-time in a degree or certificate program at a qualifying institution.
• Study in an academic field related to the internship duties or have relevant career aspirations in engineering or a related discipline.

Proof of enrollment must be provided, either through official transcripts or a letter from the school.

Eligibility for Conversion

Students who meet specific eligibility criteria could be non-competitively converted into permanent or term roles after completing the internship. To qualify for conversion, students must:

• Accumulate at least 480 hours of work experience during the program (some waivers may apply).
• Complete their degree or certification program successfully.
• Meet the qualification standards for the converted position.
• Perform well in their internship, as reflected in evaluations and supervisor recommendations.

Although conversion is not guaranteed, it’s an exciting opportunity for long-term career advancement.

Qualifications and Skills Needed

Nail your application by demonstrating the following qualifications and skills:

Minimum Education Requirements:

To qualify for the ZP-2 pay band (equivalent to GS-07):

• Complete one full year of graduate-level education in an appropriate field of study OR
• Achieve Superior Academic Achievement (e.g., a GPA of 2.9+ overall or 3.5+ in major courses, class standing in the top third, or membership in an honors society).

Relevant Skills:

• A strong interest in engineering concepts and problem-solving.
• Analytical abilities for testing and data measurement.
• Good communication and teamwork skills to collaborate effectively with engineers and other professionals.

Salary and Benefits

The internship is part of the DOC Alternative Personnel System, and positions are classified under the ZP pay plan. Interns accepted into the ZP-2 pay band will receive compensation aligned with the GS-07 or GS-09 grade levels, depending on their qualifications.

Benefits of the Pathways Internship include:

• A paid position that complements academic learning.
• Professional development and mentorship from industry experts.
• Eligibility for student loan repayment programs or tuition assistance (depending on funding availability).
• Potential for long-term employment through program conversion.

How to Apply

Getting started with your application is simple. Here’s what you need to do:

1. Prepare Your Documents

   • Update your resume to reflect academic and work accomplishments.
   • Gather official or unofficial transcripts showing proof of enrollment and GPA.
   • If enrolling at a new institution for the coming term, provide an acceptance letter or proof of enrollment.

2. Submit Your Application

   • Visit USAJOBS and search for the NESDIS Pathways Internship announcement. Follow the prompts to create or log in to your account.
   • Complete all required fields and upload your supporting documents.

3. Monitor Deadlines and Notifications

   • Applications must include all required materials by the deadline listed in the job announcement. Late or incomplete applications won’t be considered.
   • Keep an eye on your inbox (and spam folder!) for communication about next steps in the selection process.

A Path to Success

The NESDIS Pathways Internship Program offers students a unique opportunity to gain meaningful work experience in a professional engineering environment. Not only will you have a chance to apply what you’ve learned in school, but you’ll also gain valuable connections, skills, and insights into government service.

Whether you’re aiming to kickstart your engineering career or explore federal service opportunities, this internship provides a solid foundation for success. Apply today and take the first step toward an exciting future with NESDIS!

Submit NESDIS Internship Application