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Federal Internships Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

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Federal Internships information

What are federal internships?

Federal internships are temporary positions offered by U.S. government agencies to students and recent graduates, allowing them to gain work experience in public service. These internships can be paid or unpaid and are available in a wide range of fields, such as policy, engineering, public health, and administration. They typically last for a few months, often over the summer, and provide valuable networking opportunities and insights into federal careers. Many federal internships are designed to lead to permanent positions within the government after successful completion.

What do federal interns do?

As a federal intern, you can expect to be involved in a variety of projects that support the mission and daily operations of the agency you’re placed in. Typical tasks might include conducting research, drafting reports, attending meetings, assisting with program administration, and collaborating on team projects. The exact nature of your responsibilities will vary by department, but most interns are given meaningful assignments that contribute to larger agency goals, offering a valuable opportunity to gain hands-on experience and expand your professional network within the federal government.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a federal intern?

To thrive as a Federal Intern, you typically need strong academic performance, analytical skills, and an interest in public service, often supported by enrollment in or recent graduation from an accredited degree program. Familiarity with government databases, office productivity software, and sometimes security clearance procedures is valuable. Strong communication, teamwork, and adaptability set top interns apart in collaborative and fast-changing federal environments. These skills enable interns to contribute effectively, learn quickly, and build a foundation for future government careers.

What is the difference between Federal Internships vs State Internships?

AspectFederal InternshipsState Internships
Required CredentialsTypically high school diploma or current college studentSimilar; often current college students or recent graduates
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies at the federal level, often in Washington D.C. or regional officesState government offices, often in state capitals or regional offices
Employer & Industry UsageU.S. federal agencies like DHS, EPA, or DOJState departments like health, transportation, or education
Search & Comparison IntentLooking for federal government experienceSeeking state government roles or experience

Federal Internships and State Internships both offer government experience but differ mainly in the level of government, work environment, and agencies involved. Federal internships provide exposure to national agencies, while state internships focus on state-level agencies. Both are valuable for careers in public service, but your choice depends on your desired scope and location.

Infographic showing various Federal Internships job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Mechanical Engineering Intern - Aviation & Federal (Washington DC)

Burns & McDonnell

Washington, DC • On-site

$21.25 - $28.50/hr

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 4 days ago


Burns & McDonnell rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 50 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

3rd of 80 rated construction


Job description

Description
Our Engineering Interns are responsible for performing tasks requiring the application of standard engineering techniques and procedures. This includes standard design of engineering systems, correcting and updating designs, assisting lead engineers with various project duties, and other duties as assigned.
Specific assignments and project work vary depending on the market segments. Please see below for information on each market:
Aviation & Federal
The Aviation & Federal group is responsible for program management, master planning, facility design commissioning, and operational systems design of commercial aviation and Federal & Military projects, including buildings, infrastructure, hangars, passenger terminals, fueling & ramp services, runways, and aviation support facilities.
Qualifications
  • Pursuit of Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related degree from an accredited program.
  • Currently enrolled, and in good standing, in a post-secondary education and/or technical certificate program in a field related to the work done in the department.
  • Minimum of a 3.0 GPA strongly preferred.
  • Prior internship and/or related consulting experience preferred.
  • Actively involved in campus, community or other volunteer activities or organizations.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Strong problem solving and analytical skills.
  • Basic knowledge and experience in Microsoft Office programs, including, Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook.
  • Demonstrated leadership skills.
  • Self-motivated and eager learner, aptitude to grow and develop within the field.
  • Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without requiring future sponsorship for employment visa status.

Benefits
Interns may participate in our 401(k) retirement program provided plan eligibility requirements are met. Sick leave is accrued based on the actual number of hours worked. For more information, please visit the Benefits & Wellness page.
This job posting will remain open a minimum of 72 hours and on an ongoing basis until filled.
EEO/Disabled/Veterans
Job Intern
Primary Location US-DC-Washington
Schedule: Full-time
Travel: Yes, 5 % of the Time
Req ID: 263716
Job Hire Type Intern #LI-DNI #A&F

What Burns & McDonnell employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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About Burns & McDonnell

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Burns & McDonnell assists clients of all sizes and industries by providing extensive physical services ranging from assessments, integrated security solutions, and large security architecture designs. Services we typically provide include security and safety system design, threat, risk, and vulnerability assessments, security surveys, security master planning, compliance to federal security programs, independent validation and verification of integrated security system operations, management of installation and maintenance, and staff augmentation to develop and implement facility management and protection processes.

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Kansas City, MO, US

Year founded

1898

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