Why Work Here?
DOE’s strategic priorities include scientific discovery, economic prosperity, secure energy, national security, and the safe environmental cleanup of the national nuclear weapons complex. Our 17 groundbreaking, award-winning National Laboratories tackle the critical scientific challenges of our time, from combating climate change to discovering the origins of our universe. Our expansive mission means we have many opportunities in a variety of fields such as STEM, national security, international affairs, business, and program development. We offer many early career programs, to include apprenticeships, internships, fellowships, scholarships, graduate research opportunities, competitions, and more.
Our commitment to workplace flexibilities and employee wellness makes DOE an ideal place to build your federal career. Learn more about the Benefits of Working at Energy.
Internship & Fellowship Opportunities
We offer engaging opportunities for students and recent graduates through the federal Pathways Programs, which include the Internship and Recent Graduates, and the DOE Student Experience Program. Individuals who successfully complete a Pathways Program may be eligible for non-competitive conversion to a term or permanent job in the Federal civil service.
Internship Program
The Internship Program offers paid work opportunities at DOE for students currently enrolled in a high school, college, trade school, or other qualifying institution. To apply, students must be enrolled at least part-time in school or an educational program, which may include Registered Apprenticeship Programs and certain volunteer service programs.
Apply for DOE Federal internship positions on USAJOBS.
Recent Graduates Program
The Recent Graduates Program provides a 1-year developmental opportunity at DOE for those who have graduated within the previous 2 years from a qualifying educational institution or career or technical educational program. This may include programs like Registered Apprenticeships, Job Corps, Climate Corps, AmeriCorps, and Peace Corps. Veterans unable to apply due to service obligations have up to 6 years after degree completion to apply.
Apply for DOE Federal recent graduate positions on USAJOBS.
DOE's Student Experience Program partners with educational institutions that provide stipends to participating students, allowing them to gain experiential learning opportunities at DOE. These opportunities help students develop skills needed in today's workforce while learning about DOE's exciting mission. Students must be enrolled not less than half-time in a trade school, technical or vocational institute, college or university, or other accredited educational institution. Students do not receive a salary from DOE for participating in this program.
Visit the DOE Student Experience Program page to learn more.
ORISE Internships & Fellowships
DOE provides opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students and postgraduates to participate in programs, projects, and activities at the Department that enhance their preparedness for scientific, technological, and policy related careers. The Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education (ORISE) administers these non-Federal internships and fellowships on behalf of the DOE. Participants of DOE-funded programs are not Federal employees, and these programs do not directly lead to Federal employment.
Visit the ORISE Opportunities Catalog for a listing of open opportunities.
DOE STEM Opportunities
DOE sponsors many opportunities for individuals and institutions for STEM workforce training, learning, and professional development.
Search for DOE-sponsored STEM training and workforce development opportunities for students and professionals at all levels on the DOE STEM page or visit ORISE STEM Internships and Fellowships site to learn more about STEM opportunities through ORISE.