Internship opportunities at the Idaho National Laboratory (INL) provide students with hands-on, paid experience in science, energy, and national security. As one of the United States Department of Energy’s (DOE) premier national laboratories, INL plays a critical role in advancing cutting-edge research and developing practical solutions to some of the world’s most complex challenges. These internship opportunities at INL are designed to equip students with real-world skills, professional mentorship, and exposure to high-impact projects that drive innovation across science, technology, engineering, mathematics (STEM), and operational fields.
Each year, INL hires hundreds of students from across the United States to participate in structured internship programs that blend academic knowledge with applied research and operational experience. Whether a student’s background is in nuclear engineering, computer science, physics, chemistry, business, communications, or logistics, INL offers internship opportunities that support both technical and non-technical career paths.
Background: About Idaho National Laboratory and Its Internship Opportunities
The Idaho National Laboratory is a U.S. Department of Energy facility with a mission focused on nuclear energy research, clean energy systems, national security, and advanced scientific innovation. Through its internship opportunities, INL creates pathways for students to contribute meaningfully to real-world projects while learning directly from experienced scientists, engineers, and professionals.
INL internships emphasize collaboration, mentorship, and professional development. Interns work alongside seasoned experts, gaining exposure to laboratory research environments, operational strategies, and multidisciplinary teams. These internship opportunities are paid and structured to ensure that participants gain both academic and career value from their experience.
Extensive Eligibility Criteria: Who Can Apply
The internship opportunities at INL are open to a wide range of students, provided they meet specific eligibility requirements. INL does not assume eligibility beyond what is explicitly stated and evaluates all applicants based on published criteria.
Who Can Apply
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High school students
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Undergraduate students
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Graduate students
Educational Requirements
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Applicants must be full-time students attending an accredited high school, college, or university.
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Students must be enrolled the semester before and the semester after receiving an internship award.
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Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0.
International Students
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International students are eligible only if they attend an accredited U.S. college or university.
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International applicants must possess a current Curricular Practical Training (CPT) Authorization at the time of application and throughout the internship period.
These eligibility requirements apply across all INL internship opportunities and ensure that participants are academically prepared and authorized to participate in the program.
Available Internship Programs at INL
Most applicants to internship opportunities at INL will apply through one of four primary internship postings. Applicants are then considered for multiple potential positions aligned with their academic background and interests.
INL Internship Categories
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Undergraduate Research Assistant Internship – Science & Technology
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Undergraduate Internship – Operations & Strategy Management
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Graduate Research Assistant Internship – Science & Technology
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Graduate Internship – Operations & Strategy Management
The majority of INL internship opportunities fall within STEM disciplines, including:
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Nuclear engineering
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Chemistry
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Computer science
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Physics
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Other science and engineering-related fields
However, INL also offers internships in non-STEM areas such as:
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Business
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Communications
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Logistics
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Operations and strategy management
This broad structure allows students from diverse academic backgrounds to find relevant internship opportunities within INL.
Program Details: Structure, Duration, and Experience
Internship opportunities at INL are structured to provide meaningful, career-oriented experiences. While specific timelines may vary depending on assignment and academic level, the overall internship structure remains consistent.
Program Structure
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Interns spend their first week working closely with assigned mentors.
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During this initial period, interns outline the scope of work, define goals, and secure necessary resources.
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Throughout the internship, mentors provide continuous guidance, feedback, and professional support.
Learning and Professional Development
In addition to day-to-day project work, INL interns are encouraged to participate in:
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Weekly seminars
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Facility tours
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Networking events
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Career development activities
These elements are intentionally integrated into the internship experience to support professional growth and exposure to diverse career pathways.
Final Project Requirement
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College and graduate interns are required to complete a final project related to their assignment.
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Deliverables may include:
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A poster presentation
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An oral presentation
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Another approved project format relevant to the intern’s role
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These projects ensure that internship opportunities at INL result in tangible academic and professional outcomes.
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All internships referenced are paid positions.
Application Requirements and How to Apply
Applying for internship opportunities at INL requires submitting a complete application with supporting documents. Applicants are encouraged to prepare materials carefully to ensure accuracy and completeness.
Required Application Materials
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Latest college transcripts
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A current résumé or curriculum vitae (CV)
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Current class schedule (including number of credits) OR
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A copy of diploma if graduated within the past six months
Applications are submitted online through INL’s official internship portal. Most applicants will apply to one of the four main internship postings and may be considered for multiple roles based on qualifications.
Important Dates and Deadlines
Applicants are advised to visit the official INL internship website regularly to review current postings, deadlines, and program timelines.
Application Portal: Apply for Internship Opportunities at INL
Why Choose Internship Opportunities at INL
The internship opportunities at Idaho National Laboratory offer students a unique chance to gain paid, real-world experience at a leading U.S. Department of Energy facility. With structured mentorship, exposure to high-impact projects, and opportunities across STEM and operational fields, INL internships prepare students to contribute to innovation in science, energy, and national security. For students seeking practical experience, professional development, and meaningful research or operational work, internship opportunities at INL represent a valuable and credible pathway toward future career success.
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