The Department of Energy’s (DOE) Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE) offers exciting student volunteer internships throughout the year at DOE Headquarters (HQ) in Washington, D.C., and the Golden Field Office (GFO) in Golden, Colorado. EERE selects applicants based on availability and program office needs, and places candidates based on the best fit with program office requirements. Positions are limited and offered on a competitive basis. All applications are retained for one year from the application submission date.
Intern Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for the SVIP at HQ and the GFO, the applicant must meet the following criteria:
- Be a U.S. citizen.
- Be an individual who is enrolled, not less than half-time, in a high school, trade school, technical or vocational institute, junior college, college, university, or comparable recognized educational institution.
- Secure the educational institution’s permission to participate.
- Be available on at least a part-time basis, for no less than two months.
Selection will be made without regard to considerations of race, creed, color, national origin, religion, marital status, sexual orientation, or handicap. Volunteer assignments are strictly unpaid and without financial compensation. No federal government liability is assumed.
How to Apply
Position placement opportunities are available throughout the year. Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis. Volunteer applicants are advised of the following application process:
- Complete the online application form, attach a cover letter and resume, and submit. INCOMPLETE APPLICATIONS WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED.
- The cover letter should explain the applicant's desire to be a volunteer. The letter should include the qualifications, experience, and other background information related to the position that he or she is seeking, and how the student believes he or she can benefit from the volunteer assignment.
- The resume should outline previous employment experience, education, any affiliations and certifications, and include references with contact information.
- Applicants should NOT include social security numbers in the application package.
- Applicants may apply to multiple EERE placement locations (e.g. Washington, D.C., and Golden) by indicating location preferences on the online application form. EERE does not provide funds or reimbursement for relocation travel, lodging, or other expenses. Please note that application information may be shared with other DOE offices (outside of EERE) for additional possible placement opportunities.
- If applicants are being considered for placement, they will be notified by an EERE SVIP office representative who will guide them through the onboarding process. All required materials (completed and signed) must be received at least 10 working days prior to the proposed assignment start date.
You will complete Part B of the application after being contacted for possible placement/selection.
Potential Intern Assignments
Examples of volunteer responsibilities may include, but not be limited to, the following assignments:
- Gathering and analyzing data
- Participating in meetings and conferences
- Assisting with research projects
- Assisting staff members with program-related tasks
- Developing communication and outreach materials
- Assisting with Internet and web design / development