Intern
Discover exciting internships and research opportunities at the leading center for robotic exploration of the solar system.
Stay Connected
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between internships, fellowships and student employment?
Internships and fellowships are offered by the JPL Education Office for students in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields. Internships and fellowships have a strong educational and research component, allowing students to gain valuable experience in their field of study. Students are paired with a mentor for a specific research or mission project and are required to do a final presentation to demonstrate what they’ve learned and how they have contributed to JPL research.
Student employment is offered by JPL Human Resources as an internship option for both non-STEM and STEM majors. Student employment focuses on giving students career experience at JPL and introducing them to the laboratory workforce and operations.
Note: While interns, fellows and student employees come to JPL through different channels and for different opportunities, the JPL student community is very much that: a community. The JPL Education Office and Human Resources work closely to ensure that all students have the same stellar experience at JPL, with opportunities to network, participate in tours, lectures and career advisement, and ready themselves for a bright future.
How do I qualify for an internship?
To qualify for an internship offered through the JPL Education Office, you must meet all program requirements (listed in the “Requirements” section of the program page), submit your application prior to the deadline, and/or for programs requiring nominations, connect with your campus’ faculty advisor(s). Note that meeting these minimum requirements does not guarantee placement in an internship.
› Get advice from experts on the skills and experience they look for from potential interns
What does the JPL Education Office look for in an intern?
To qualify for internship opportunities offered by the JPL Education Office, applicants must be studying STEM fields and meet the requirements outlined on the program page. Desirable characteristics include aptitude in STEM fields, enthusiasm, motivation, focus, and commitment to complete a project.
› Get advice from experts on the skills and experience they look for from potential interns
How do I know if my major fits with JPL Education Office internship opportunities?
Most students studying STEM fields and some related areas of design, including product and transporation design, qualify for JPL Education Office internship opportunities. Note: Additional internship opportunities for non-STEM majors can be found on the JPL jobs website.
When and how long are the internship sessions?
Internship sessions vary by program. Most internships offered through the JPL Education Office require a minimum 10-week commitment. See the “Details” section of the program page for more information.
There are several internship programs on the website. Do I apply to all of them?
You are encouraged to apply to multiple programs. However, you should only apply to programs for which you meet the eligibility requirements. See the “Requirements” section of the program page for more information.
Can I apply for a specific internship opportunity rather than a program?
No. Program coordinators in the JPL Education Office will review your application and work directly with mentors to pair you with a specific internship opportunity. This system allows us to make the best match possible for both the student and the mentor.
Are there internship programs for foreign nationals?
Opportunities are available to foreign nationals on a limited basis through the JPL Visiting Student Research Program. See the program page for more information about how to qualify and apply.
Does JPL offer high school internships?
Each year, the JPL Education Office determines if it will be possible to offer high school internships for the subsequent summer. Because these internships have not been adequately funded, JPL has been unable to offer an ‘open call’ for qualified applicants and has instead worked with strategic partners to offer a small number of internship opportunities. If at-large internships become available, JPL will post details and application information on the JPL internship page under the program name “JPL SpaceSHIP.” Interested high school students, age 16 and older, should check the page in the December/January timeframe for opportunities beginning in summer (typically mid-June). If JPL SpaceSHIP does not appear on the listing, then the Education Office is unable to offer at-large internships for the year.
› Find out how students can prepare for STEM career before they get to college
Does JPL offer internships for non-STEM majors?
Yes. JPL Human Resources offers additional opportunities for STEM majors and some for non-STEM major, as well. See the JPL Jobs website for more information and to apply.
Does JPL offer paid internships?
Yes. See the “Details” section of the program page for more information.
Does JPL offer financial aid?
No. However, most programs come with a stipend. See the “Details” section of the program page for more information.
Can I receive course credit for my internship?
Participants in the Student Independent Research Internship, or SIRI, program have the option to receive course credit. None of JPL’s other internship programs offer course credit.
Is travel and housing available and/or included?
Some programs offer housing and/or travel allowances to eligible students residing outside the 50-mile radius of JPL. See the “Details” section of the program page for more information.
When should I submit my application for a JPL internship?
Application deadlines vary by program; Check the program page for details.
How will I know if I’ve been selected for an internship?
If you have been selected for an internship offered by the JPL Education Office, you will be notified via email. Due to the high volume of applications we receive, we cannot respond individually to every applicant or application status request.
I haven’t heard back about my application. What should I do?
If you have been selected for an internship opportunity, you will receive an offer letter from the JPL Education Office via email. Due to the high volume of applications we receive, we cannot respond individually to every applicant or application status request.