Student Programs

Federal internships are the best and most competitive internship programs that we offer. Some of these programs may offer participants an opportunity to explore permanent employment with the DOE.

Student Internships

These student programs allow participants taking at least a half-time academic, technical, or vocational course load in an accredited high school, technical, vocational, two- or four- year college or university, graduate or professional school to be part of a cooperative-learning environment. The program is comprised of two different types of paid internships:

1. The Student Temporary Employment Program (STEP) provides maximum flexibility because the nature of the work does not have to be related to the student's academic or career choice.
2. The Student Career Experience Program (SCEP) provides the opportunity to perform work that is directly related to your area of study.

Student Temporary Employment Program (STEP)

STEP offers students a temporary summer internship with the possibility for extension to part-time work during the academic year. STEP students earn vacation time, sick leave, and are eligible to receive transportation subsidy (where offered). From summer jobs to positions that can last the entire time you're a student, this program offers paid temporary employment with a government agency leading the way to defining our energy future. Your work doesn't necessarily have to correlate to your field of study. Learn more about STEP.

Student Career Experience Program (SCEP)

SCEP offers the best opportunity for permanent Federal employment with DOE. With formal periods of work and study while you're attending school, this program offers focused experience related in your field of study. You, your university, and DOE will team up to fulfill the goals of this program. Once you've completed the SCEP and finished school, you can be eligible for full-time employment. In addition to vacation, sick leave, and the transportation benefit (where offered); participants in this program receive health benefits, life insurance, and can invest in the government's 401(k)-like program called the Thrift Savings Plan. Learn more about SCEP.

Student Stipend-Based Internships Programs

The DOE offers stipend-based internship programs. These internships are generally available in scientific research, administration, and business fields and typically occur in the summer for 8-10 weeks. These stipend-based programs are temporary positions that offer an insight into how the agency works and an opportunity to be part of our innovation. At the end of the program, you are encouraged to seek out another opportunity within DOE to continue your career.

DOE Scholars Program

Location: Nationwide

The DOE Scholars Program provides opportunities for college students and recent graduates to gain first-hand experience and training in the fields of science, engineering, technology, and related professions that support the mission of the DOE. These positions are typically short-term.

DOE Scholars Program

DOE Office of General Counsel

Location: Headquarters

The Office of General Counsel offers semester and summer internship opportunities for law students and undergraduates. Internships offer students an opportunity to gain firsthand exposure to cutting-edge issues in energy law and policy and experience in a number of energy-related practice areas, including: energy efficiency, nuclear security and non-proliferation, renewable technologies, alternate fuels vehicles, environmental compliance, intellectual property, alternative dispute resolution, and loan guarantee programs.

General Counsel Law Student Intern Program

General Counsel Undergraduate Intern Program

Minority Educational Institution Student Partnership Program (MEISPP)

Location: Nationwide

Minority Educational Institution Partnership Program

Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM)

STEM refers to the subject areas of science, technology, engineering, and math. The Obama administration’s “Educate to Innovate” campaign has put an increased emphasis on improving education in these areas and encouraging students to later pursue careers in related fields. The improvement of STEM education is critical to ensuring that the U.S. maintains its position as a global economic and technological leader. To help achieve these goals, DOE has created a variety of programs to help ensure the long-term scientific and technological success of the country, as well as that of the Department. These programs, which are part of the DOE Office of Science’s Workforce Development for Teachers and Scientists, are designed to provide a continuum of opportunities for the nation’s students and teachers of science, technology, engineering, and math. Learn more about DOE's efforts to support STEM education and development.