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Frequently Asked Questions About the Temporary Summer Student Program

The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) seeks students currently enrolled at a four-year institution eager to work during the summer to gain valuable knowledge and experience in their desired fields.
Program Details:

  • Eligibility: Open to students currently enrolled in a four-year institution.
  • Duration: Not to exceed 89 days (dates will vary)
  • Areas of Focus: Internships are available in various fields, including administrative, nuclear regulation, safety, engineering, environmental science, and more.

For additional information about the Temporary Summer Student Program, see Contact Us About Employment, and select "Temporary Summer Student Program" from the dropdown list.

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Index to All Frequently Asked Questions Pages

What is the Temporary Summary Student Program?

The Temporary Summer Student Program at the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) offers students valuable exposure to various career opportunities, professionals, and work environments within the agency. The program provides temporary employment for up to 89 days during the summer, from May to August. While positions may not always align directly with your academic field, all roles offer meaningful experience and career insights.

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Where is the duty location?

Internship positions will be located at one of the following locations, based on the applicant's selection in their application and the needs of the respective locations:

  • NRC Headquarters in Rockville, MD
  • King of Prussia, PA
  • Atlanta, GA
  • Naperville, IL
  • Arlington, TX

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How is the salary and grade determined?

Salary is determined by duty location, academic discipline, grade point average (GPA), and number of semester hours completed.

For more information, please see our Pay and Benefits page.

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What are the duties of the position?

Selectees serve as Student Trainees with the NRC. Students will be assigned a supervisor within the organization. This supervisor will assign a journey-level employee to provide technical direction and mentoring.
Under the guidance of the journey-level employee, the trainee will:

  • Provide support for assigned projects as required.
  • Carry out assigned duties and responsibilities in a manner consistent with the safety policies set forth by the supervisor.
  • Complete special projects and other duties as assigned relating to the mission/function of the office.
  • Prepare a brief technical summary at the end of the Summer.
The duties of the positions will vary depending on the office assignment and the specific role the student is assigned. Typical position assignments are listed below:
  • ADMINISTRATIVE – Accounting, Auditing, Business Administration, Communications, Criminal Justice, English, Finance, Human Resources Management, International Relations, Law Enforcement, Security
  • ENGINEERING – Chemical, Civil, Electrical, Electronics, Environmental, Fire Protection, Geotechnical, Industrial (Human Factors), Materials, Mechanical, Metallurgical, Nuclear, Structural
  • PHYSICAL SCIENCE – Chemistry, Environmental, Fire Safety Technology, Geology, Geophysics, Health Physics, Health Physics, Hydrology, Materials, Metallurgy, Nuclear Chemistry, Nuclear Physics, Physics, Radiochemistry, Radiological Science
  • INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY – Information Technology, Information Management, Computer Engineer, Computer Science

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Is this a permanent position?

The Temporary Student Summer Program is a temporary appointment that lasts up to 89 days between May and August.

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How do I qualify for this position?

Minimum requirements for Student Internship positions include the following:

  • Current enrollment in an accredited college or university pursuing a Bachelors, Masters or Doctoral degree
  • 2.85 or better grade point average based on a 4.0 scale
  • Ability to provide transcripts to verify current academic standing

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How do I apply for this position?

NRC Student Internships are posted annually on USAJobs between September and October. Check both the NRC website and USAJobs.gov frequently for updates.

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What is the basis of the evaluation of my application?

Applications will be evaluated against the following criteria:

  • Grade point average (GPA),
  • Academic honors (i.e., Dean List),
  • Awards (i.e., scholarships)
  • Extracurricular activities (i.e., student associations).

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Will the NRC pay for me to relocate?

Relocation expenses will not be paid.

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Will the NRC pay for the transportation, lodging, and subsistence?

The agency may provide transportation, lodging, and subsistence; however, each request will be evaluated individually.

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How much travel is required?

Travel is not required for Student Internship positions.

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Page Last Reviewed/Updated Friday, February 21, 2025