Jobs, Internships & Volunteering Opportunities

Summer 2026 Voluntary Internship Opportunities

Applications for Summer 2026 closed on April 3, 2026, and are no longer being accepted. 

Our internships list is below. Click on each title for details:

Summer 2026 interns have the opportunity to work in a variety of fields, including archival processing, museum exhibits, and more. Interns work between 10-40 hours per week for 10 weeks. Internships are unpaid, yet can be done for academic credit or volunteer hours. Learn more about the program here.

 

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Presidential Libraries and Museums 

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 + Barack Obama - College Park, MD - Artifact Collections Care Internship 

 1 internship available at the Barack Obama Presidential Library in College Park, MD

Tasks & Responsibilities:

  • Assist Registrar and Museum Technician with
    • Inventorying museum collections 
    • Condition reporting and assessing object storage conditions  
    • Writing object descriptions to update database records
    • Object photography
    • Creating archival storage supports and/or enclosures for objects

Professional Development Opportunities:

  • Interns will gain hands-on experience with museum collection management best practices. They will get a behind the scenes look at the policies and procedures of the National Archives while contributing to the preservation of our national history. 
  • Products created during the internship - such as updated descriptions and photographs - will be utilized by the public and National Archives staff to increase access to our holdings. 

Work Environment:

  • The work is mostly sedentary and performed while seated, yet interns must be physically able to perform the duties of this position. 
  • Physical demands may include climbing ladders, moving carts of records, and handling boxes of archival records.
  • Interns will have regular access to a shared NARA computer workstation.

Education & Qualifications Requirements:

  • Educational Level/Program:
    • Current or former bachelor's degree or graduate students
    • Degree program in museum studies, history, or related field
  • Qualifications:
    • Research capability
    • Competent using computers for tasks including data entry, word processing, spreadsheets, and presentations
    • Physically able to climb 15-foot ladders and work with boxes weighing up to 50 pounds
    • Can work collaboratively as part of a team

Schedule:

  • Internship Date Options: 
    • 6/1/2026 through 8/7/2026
    • 6/8/2026 through 8/14/2026
  • Weekly Schedule: 11-19 hours per week

Area(s) of Interest: Museums Collections & Exhibits Management

The selecting official for this internship may also request a letter of recommendation. 

 

 + Barack Obama - College Park, MD - Digitization Internship Internship 

 2 internships available at the Barack Obama Presidential Library in College Park, MD

Tasks & Responsibilities:

  • Primary tasks focus on preparing archival documents for digitization, including: 
    • removing fasteners (staples, clips, etc.) and bindings; 
    • removing non-scannable items & materials (envelopes, boxes, bags, etc.); 
    • identifying and alerting Library staff of any non-scannable/textual items or materials (AV, electronic textual, artifact).

Professional Development Opportunities:

  • Archival document processing
  • Teamwork
  • Time management

Work Environment:

  • The work is mostly sedentary and performed while seated, yet interns must be physically able to perform the duties of this position. 
  • Physical demands may include climbing ladders, moving carts of records, and handling boxes of archival records.
  • Interns will have regular access to a shared NARA computer workstation.

Education & Qualifications Requirements:

  • Educational Level/Program:
    • Current or former associate's degree, bachelor's degree, or graduate student
  • Qualifications:
    • Competent using computers for tasks including data entry, word processing, spreadsheets, and presentations
    • Physically able to climb 15-foot ladders and work with boxes weighing up to 50 pounds
    • Can work independently and effectively
    • Attention to detail/li>

Schedule:

  • Internship Date Options: 
    • 6/1/2026 through 8/7/2026
    • 6/8/2026 through 8/14/2026
  • Weekly Schedule Options: 
    • 10 hours per week
    • 11-19 hours per week

Area(s) of Interest: Archival Processing, Digitizing Archival Materials, Public History

 

 + George W. Bush - Dallas, TX - Archival Digitization Internship 

3 internships available at the George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum in Dallas, TX 

Tasks & Responsibilities:

  • Interns’ primary task is to prepare documents for digitization. Details are as follows:
    • Remove fasteners (staples, clips, etc.) and bindings
    • Remove non-scannable items & materials (envelopes, boxes, bags, etc.)
    • Identify and alert PL-GWB (Bush Presidential Library) staff of any non-scannable/textual items or materials (AV, electronic textual, artifact)

Professional Development Opportunities:

  • Physical document processing
  • Teamwork
  • Time management

Work Environment:

  • The work is mostly sedentary and performed while seated, yet interns must be physically able to perform the duties of this position.
  • Physical demands may include climbing ladders, moving carts of records, and handling boxes of archival records.
  • Interns will have regular access to a shared NARA computer workstation.

Education & Qualifications Requirements:

  • Educational Level/Program:
    • Current or former associate's degree, bachelor's degree, or graduate student
  • Qualifications:
    • Physically able to climb 15-foot ladders and work with boxes weighing up to 50 pounds
    • Can work independently and effectively
    • Can work collaboratively as part of a team
    • Attention to detail

Schedule:

  • Internship Date Options: 
    • 6/1/2026 through 8/7/2026
    • 6/8/2026 through 8/14/2026
  • Weekly Schedule: 11-19 hours per week

Area(s) of Interest: Archival Processing, Digitizing Archival Materials, Public History

 

 + Gerald R. Ford - Grand Rapids, MI - Public Facing Museum Operations Internship 

 1 internship available at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum in Grand Rapids, MI

Tasks & Responsibilities:

  • Works with Museum Store Manager on retail sales, store displays and E-Store commerce. 
  • Works with Museum Educator on public outreach programs, summer camps, and program development.
  • Works with Public Affairs Specialist on public facing museum communications on social media, press releases, graphics and special events.

Professional Development Opportunities:

  • Retail - intern will learn how to conduct store sales, ticketing sales, and updating/entering items onto the E-store commerce site.
  • Education - intern will perform program research, will develop powerpoints, and will practice public speaking skills. 
  • Public Affairs - intern will learn how to write and send a press release, how to set up and respond to media inquiries, and how to create graphics for each platform. 

Work Environment:

  • Intern will work in the Museum store and office setting.
  • Intern will be issued a NARA laptop for completing their work.

Education & Qualifications Requirements:

  • Educational Level/Program:
    • Current or former associate's degree, bachelor's degree, or graduate student
  • Qualifications:
    • Can work independently and effectively
    • Can work collaboratively as part of a team
    • Can balance multiple deadline-driven tasks or projects simultaneously
    • Attention to detail

Schedule:

  • Internship Date Options: 
    • 6/1/2026 through 8/7/2026
    • 6/8/2026 through 8/14/2026
  • Weekly Schedule Options: 
    • 20-29 hours per week
    • 30 hours or more per week

Area(s) of Interest: Communications, Editorial, Education & Public Programs, External & Public Affairs, Marketing, Photo Services, Social Media, Special Events

The selecting official for this internship may also request a writing sample and letter of recommendation. 
 

 

 + Jimmy Carter – Atlanta, GA - Digitization Internship for Textual Records 

2 internships available at the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum in Atlanta, GA

Tasks & Responsibilities:

  • Metadata creation
  • Scanning of textual documents
  • Processing of small textual collections

Professional Development Opportunities:

  • Learn how to digitize textual documents
  • Create metadata using NARA and international standards
  • Learn basic archival processing

Work Environment:

  • The work will take place in the AV lab 
  • Work conditions will include working at a computer and using a document scanner and computer storage drives
  • Interns will have regular access to a shared NARA computer workstation

Education & Qualifications Requirements:

  • Educational Level/Program:
    • Current or former bachelor's degree or graduate student
    • Degree program in history, museum studies, library science, or a related field
  • Qualifications:
    • Can work independently and effectively
    • Can work collaboratively as part of a team
    • Attention to detail

Schedule:

  • Internship Date Option: 6/8/2026 through 8/14/2026 
  • Weekly Schedule: 10 hours per week

Area(s) of Interest: Archival Processing, Digitizing Archival Materials

 

 + John F. Kennedy - Boston, MA - Archival Processing Internship

 1 internship available at the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum in Boston, MA

Tasks & Responsibilities:

  • Enhanced description of series within textual collections
  • Listing out contents of boxes to facilitate access 
  • Creating metadata according to Library and NARA standards
  • Assisting with holdings maintenance
  • Basic preservation work on textual records

Professional Development Opportunities:

  • The intern will gain practical experience in applying fundamental archival principles. 
  • This includes learning the basics of archival processing, along with best practices for creating metadata and describing archival materials.

Work Environment:

  • Most work will be performed sitting and typing at a computer, however interns should also be physically able to push carts, climb ladders, and handle boxes of archival records potentially weighing up to 40 pounds.
  • Interns will have regular access to a shared NARA computer workstation

Education & Qualifications Requirements:

  • Educational Level/Program:
    • Current or former bachelor's degree or graduate student
    • Degree program in library science or history is preferred
  • Qualifications:
  • Coursework or practical experience in archival work including holdings maintenance, processing, or description
  • Competent using computers for tasks including data entry, word processing, spreadsheets, and presentations
  • Can work independently and effectively
  • Attention to detail

Schedule:

  • Internship Date Options: 
    • 6/1/2026 through 8/7/2026
    • 6/8/2026 through 8/14/2026
  • Weekly Schedule Options: 
    • 10 hours per week
    • 11-19 hours per week

Area(s) of Interest:  Archival Processing

The selecting official for this internship may also request a letter of recommendation. 

 

 + Joseph R. Biden Jr. - College Park, MD -  Archival Internship

 1 internship available at the Joseph R. Biden Jr. Presidential Library in College Park, MD

Tasks & Responsibilities:

  • Organize textual records and verify the contents of each box to ensure accuracy and completeness. 
  • Develop folder title lists to assist users in navigating the holdings more efficiently and enhance overall accessibility to the records.
  • Remove fasteners (staples, clips, etc.) and bindings to support future digitization projects.

Professional Development Opportunities:

  • Interns will gain hands-on experience with archives and records management best practices. 
  • During the internship, participants will acquire the skills necessary to evaluate the processing requirements of textual records, understand the methodologies employed to establish both physical and intellectual control over the records, as well as learn how to strategize and document processing procedures within the National Archives Presidential Library system while contributing to the preservation of our national history. 
  • Products created during the internship, such as finding aids and digitized records will be utilized by the public and National Archives staff to increase access to our holdings.

Work Environment:

  • Interns’ work setting will include work both in an office setting and in archival storage.
  • Interns will periodically need to lift heavy boxes or use ladders.
  • Intern will be issued a NARA laptop for completing their work.

Education & Qualifications Requirements:

  • Educational Level/Program:
    • Current or former associate's degree, bachelor's degree, or graduate student
    • Degree program in history, museum studies, library science, or a related field.
  • Qualifications:
    • Research capability
    • Competent using computers for tasks including data entry, word processing, spreadsheets, and presentations
    • Can work independently and effectively
    • Attention to detail

Schedule:

  • Internship Date Options: 
    • 6/1/2026 through 8/7/2026
    • 6/8/2026 through 8/14/2026
  • Weekly Schedule Options: 
    • 11-19 hours per week
    • 20-29 hours per week
    • 30 hours or more per week

 

Area(s) of Interest: Archival Processing, Digitizing Archival Materials, Public History, Records Management

 

 + Joseph R. Biden Jr. - College Park, MD - Museum Internship

 1 internship available at the Joseph R. Biden Jr. Presidential Library in College Park, MD

Tasks & Responsibilities:

  • Assist Registrar with inventorying museum collections
  • Create condition reporting and assess object storage conditions  
  • Write object descriptions and update database records
  • Assist Registrar with photographing objects
  • Create archival storage supports and/or enclosures for objects

Professional Development Opportunities:

  • Interns will gain hands-on experience with museum collection management best practices. 
  • They will get a behind the scenes look at the policies and procedures for managing museum objects within the National Archives Presidential Library system while contributing to the preservation of our national history. 
  • Products created during the internship, such as updated object descriptions and photographs will be utilized by the public and National Archives staff to increase access to our holdings. 

Work Environment:

  • Interns’ work setting will include work both in an office setting and in museum storage.
  • Interns will periodically need to lift heavy boxes or use ladders.
  • Intern will be issued a NARA laptop for completing their work.

Education & Qualifications Requirements:

  • Educational Level/Program:
    • Current or former associate's degree, bachelor's degree, or graduate student
    • Degree program in history, museum studies, library science, or a related field
  • Qualifications:
    • Research capability
    • Competent using computers for tasks including data entry, word processing, spreadsheets, and presentations
    • Can work collaboratively as part of a team
    • Coursework or practical experience in museum work including object handling, description, or photography

Schedule:

  • Internship Date Options: 
    • 6/1/2026 through 8/7/2026
    • 6/8/2026 through 8/14/2026
  • Weekly Schedule: 
    • 11-19 hours per week
    • 20-29 hours per week
    • 30 hours or more per week
    • 11-19 hours per week

Area(s) of Interest: Museums Collections & Exhibits Management, Public History

 


National Archives Field Locations 

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+  Exhibits Internship for the Museum Operations Division - Kansas City

 1 internship available at the National Archives at Kansas City, MO

Tasks & Responsibilities:

  • The Museum Operations Division is responsible for the research, development, and implementation of both physical and digital exhibition projects. 
  • Our primary goal is to engage the public with primary source materials, promote historical thinking skills, and actively support the teaching of civics, history, and government across the educational spectrum. 
  • Interns will contribute to this mission by developing activities and resources that use primary sources to deepen historical understanding. These materials will be aligned with physical and digital exhibition projects, including primary source research, development of exhibition scripts, selection of original documents from the Archives’ holdings, and coordination of digital and web-based content.

Professional Development Opportunities:

  • Interns will gain hands-on experience in all phases of researching, developing, and implementing physical and digital exhibition projects. They will collaborate in a professional setting to achieve project goals and build effective skills that ensure an understanding of the exhibition project lifecycle.
  • Interns will have the opportunity to collaborate closely with a diverse team of curators, archivists, educators, and technology specialists in a professional, interdisciplinary setting. This collaboration is designed to foster teamwork, effective communication, and problem-solving abilities necessary to achieve complex project goals and build effective skills to succeed in cultural heritage institutions. 

Work Environment:

  • The duties of this position primarily involve conducting desk-based research and writing, both within the office environment and in NARA’s designated research room facilities.
  • Interns will be issued a NARA laptop for completing their work.

Education & Qualifications Requirements:

  • Educational Level/Program:
    • Current or former graduate degree student
    • Degree program in history, public history, museum studies, or a related field
  • Qualifications:
    • Research capability
    • Can work independently and effectively
    • Can work collaboratively as part of a team
    • Strong writing ability

Schedule:

  • Internship Date Options: 
    • 6/1/2026 through 8/7/2026
    • 6/8/2026 through 8/14/2026
  • Weekly Schedule: 
    • 11-19 hours per week
    • 20-29 hours per week

Area(s) of Interest: Museums Collections & Exhibits Management, Public History

The selecting official for this internship may also request a writing sample. 

 


Washington, DC-area  

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College Park, MD-based Internships:


+ Acquisition Policy Internship

 1 internship available at the National Archives at College Park, MD 

Tasks & Responsibilities:

  • The Acquisition Policy Intern will be responsible for the following tasks:
    • Policy and Process Development: Assist the Acquisition Policy team in researching, drafting, and reviewing acquisition policies and related processes. This includes understanding regulatory requirements and best practices to ensure compliance and efficiency.
    • Document Management: Update, organize, and maintain various working documents, ensuring accuracy, completeness, and accessibility. This may involve utilizing document management systems and adhering to established version control protocols.
    • Database Support: Provide assistance in creating, improving, and managing databases relevant to acquisition activities. This could include data entry, data integrity checks, and developing simple reports or queries to support policy analysis.
    • Website Content Management: Help with the development and maintenance of content for both external and internal websites. This involves ensuring information is up-to-date, accurate, and clearly communicated to relevant stakeholders.
    • Cross-functional Collaboration: Work collaboratively with senior leaders and various departments across the organization to gather information, solicit feedback, and support the initiatives of the Office of the Chief Acquisition Officer (OCAO). This will involve participating in meetings and effectively communicating progress.
    • Research and Analysis: Conduct research on acquisition best practices, industry trends, and regulatory changes to inform policy development and process improvements.
    • Administrative Support: Provide general administrative support to the Acquisition Policy team as needed, including scheduling meetings and preparing presentation materials.

Professional Development Opportunities:

  • The Acquisition Policy Intern will play a vital role within the Business Support Services, Acquisition Office contributing to the development and implementation of acquisition policies and processes. 
  • This position offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a dynamic environment, collaborating with senior leaders and various departments across the organization. 
  • The intern will assist in maintaining and improving critical documents and systems, as well as contributing to internal and external communications.

Work Environment:

  • Intern will work in a sedentary environment, and perform duties in an office.
  • Intern will be issued a NARA laptop for completing their work.

Education & Qualifications Requirements:

  • Educational Level/Program:
    • Current or former bachelor's degree or graduate student
    • Currently pursuing business administration, public administration, law, or a related field.
  • Qualifications:
    • Strong written and verbal communication skills
    • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
    • Ability to work independently and as part of a team
    • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
    • Ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritize effectively
    • Interest in government acquisition, public policy, or contract management.

Schedule:

  • Internship Date Options: 6/8/2026 through 8/14/2026 
  • Weekly Schedule Option: 11-19 hours per week

Area(s) of Interest:  Business (Accounting, Budget Analysis, and/or Financial Management), Legal

 

+ Closeout Team Internship 

1 internship available at the National Archives at College Park, MD 

Tasks & Responsibilities:

  • Assistance in Closeout Procedures: Support the team in gathering, organizing, and reviewing documentation required for contract closeouts, ensuring completeness and compliance with government regulations. Also, assist in reviewing contract terms and conditions, deliverables, and closure requirements; identify discrepancies or issues that need resolution before finalization. Liaison with project managers, finance teams, and other stakeholders to gather necessary information and facilitate the closeout process. Draft and send communications related to contract closeout statuses.
  • Contract Lifecycle Monitoring and Destruction: Create a tracking mechanism for monitoring existing contracts for their closure and destruction dates, ensuring adherence to our established records management processes. Also, to provide a clear and accessible means to track the physical location of each contract within the office. 
  • Data Management: Help maintain accurate records within our contract management systems, including tracking contract statuses, updating databases, and verifying financial data pertinent to contract closures.
  • File Destruction Initiative: Working towards an agreed-upon goal, the intern would help collect information on contracts slated for destruction and actively participate in the physical destruction of designated file boxes within a previously discussed timeframe. 
  • Reporting and Invoicing Support: The intern would assist with reporting and invoicing by logging into our financial systems to retrieve and load audit and close-out information. This would free up federal associates to focus on more complex tasks.
  • Close-Out Audit Assistance: The intern would provide support during close-out audits, reviewing financial records to confirm that all invoices have been submitted and paid in full. Assist in preparing materials for internal audits or external reviews related to contract closeouts, including documentation and summaries.
  • Research and Analysis: Conduct research on government regulations and policies related to contract management, and analyze best practices for effective closeout procedures.
  • General Administrative Support: Perform additional administrative tasks, as required, to support the contract management team.

Professional Development Opportunities:

  • The Office of the Chief Acquisition Officer (OCAO) is seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented intern to support our team in the government contract closeout process.
  • This internship provides an excellent opportunity for individuals interested in government contracting, compliance, and project management. 
  • The intern will assist in ensuring that all contracts are properly closed in accordance with federal regulations and company policies, gaining hands-on experience in a critical aspect of government contracting. 

Work Environment:

  • Intern will work in a sedentary environment, and perform duties in an office.
  • Intern will be issued a NARA laptop for completing their work.

Education & Qualifications Requirements:

  • Educational Level/Program:
    • Current or former high school student (must be at least 18 years old), associate's degree student, bachelor's degree student, or graduate student
    • Currently pursuing a degree in business administration, public administration, contract management, or a related field
  • Qualifications:
    • Competent using computers for tasks including data entry, word processing, spreadsheets, and presentations
    • Can work collaboratively as part of a team
    • Attention to detail
    • Strong organizational skills

Schedule:

  • Internship Date Option:  6/8/2026 through 8/14/2026 
  • Weekly Schedule Options: 11-19 hours per week

Area(s) of Interest: Business (Accounting, Budget Analysis, and/or Financial Management)

 

+ Developing Treatments for Brittle Film: Applying the Scientific Method with Heritage Science & Motion Picture Preservation Internship

1 internship available at the National Archives at College Park, MD 

Tasks & Responsibilities:

  • Over time motion picture film reels can break down and lose essential chemical compounds that keep them flexible and strong enough for playback and digitization. The intern will work with NARA’s Preservation Science Research and Testing Lab, Conservators and the Motion Picture Preservation Lab to test different treatment methods for brittle and shrunken film.  
  • The intern will gather information from the film preservation literature about treatment options, develop an experimental plan and test procedures and treatment variables. 
  • The intern will evaluate and compare the effects of re-plasticization treatments using analytical instrumentation in the science lab. 
  • The intern will work with motion picture experts to create guidance for treatment selection of deteriorated film based on their data.   

Professional Development Opportunities:

  • The participant will be working with a team of scientists and preservation professionals in active research and preservation laboratories and will be exposed to a variety of types of analytical instrumentation to learn about their applications to preservation and conservation work at the archives. 
  • This project will develop the management skills needed to conduct scientific research applied to archives preservation; walking the intern through research question development to testing, evaluating and reporting. 
  • The final work product will be written guidance and procedures based on the experimental data that can be referenced for future preservation decision making when severely degraded films are encountered in the archives. 

Work Environment:

  • The intern will be provided a cubicle space with a desktop computer in the heritage science research and testing lab.  
  • The work may require both standing for long periods and lifting up to 20 pounds or sitting and fine focus work such as at a computer or microscope. Good hand skills will be necessary to manipulate brittle film for testing. 
  • This project will involve working with materials that off gas odors of vinegar which can be irritating. Personal protective equipment will be provided for working with these materials and for general lab safety.
  • Interns will have regular access to a shared NARA computer workstation.

Education & Qualifications Requirements:

  • Educational Level/Program:
    • Current or former bachelor's degree or graduate student 
    • Degree program in conservation, library science, museum studies, chemistry, physics, materials science or a related field 
  • Qualifications:
    • Can work independently and effectively
    • Can work collaboratively as part of a team
    • Strong organizational skills
    • General Chemistry coursework
    • Some experience with data analysis  

Schedule:

  • Internship Dates: 
    • 6/1/2026 through 8/7/2026
    • 6/8/2026 through 8/14/2026
  • Weekly Schedule Options:
    • 10 hours per week
    • 11-19 hours per week
    • 20-29 hours per week
    • 30 hours or more per week

Area(s) of Interest: Conservation/Preservation

The selecting official for this internship may also request a letter of recommendation.

 

+ Engineering Technician AutoCAD Drafter Internship

1 internship available at the National Archives at College Park, MD

Tasks & Responsibilities:

  • Join our innovative team as a Drafter Intern supporting space studies and architectural/engineering drawing updates. 
  • This role offers hands-on experience in drafting and technical documentation for space-related projects, providing valuable professional experience in architectural drafting.

Professional Development Opportunities:

  • This internship provides exceptional professional development through hands-on experience with industry-standard drafting tools and real construction documentation.
  • Intern will gain valuable exposure to both space planning concepts and building renovation processes while developing technical drafting and document management skills. Throughout the program, intern will receive professional mentorship and feedback from experienced drafters and project managers, allowing you to build a robust portfolio with practical project work.
  • Comprehensive experience offers valuable industry credentials for your resume, enhancing your marketability, with potential pathways to future employment opportunities within our organization. 
  • This position represents an ideal steppingstone for drafting professionals looking to advance their careers in the architectural and construction fields.

Work Environment:

  • This position operates primarily in a professional office setting with standard business hours. The intern should be prepared for occasional field work conducting space planning surveys that involve walking through various building areas. 
  • Physical demands include the ability to lift and handle construction drawing packages, which can sometimes be bulky. 
  • A comfortable work environment is provided with appropriate drafting equipment and computer workstations, though adaptability to both desk work and on-site documentation activities is necessary for success in this role.
  • Interns will have regular access to a shared NARA computer workstation.

Education & Qualifications Requirements:

  • Educational Level/Program:
    • Current or former high school student (must be at least 18 years old) or associate's degree student
    • Currently pursuing a degree in drafting, architecture, engineering, or related field. Proficiency in AutoCAD, Revit, or similar drafting software
  • Qualifications:
    • Competent using computers for tasks including data entry, word processing, spreadsheets, and presentations
    • Can work independently and effectively
    • Attention to detail
    • Strong organizational skills

Schedule:

  • Internship Dates: 
    • 6/1/2026 through 8/7/2026
    • 6/8/2026 through 8/14/2026
  • Weekly Schedule Option: 11-19 hours per week

Area(s) of Interest: Facility Operations & Logistics

 

+ Facility Services Support and Logistics Internship

1 internship available at the National Archives at College Park, MD

Tasks & Responsibilities:

  • The intern will work with the General Engineer and the Building Manager to develop an Operations Manual for the building's heating system. Specific tasks will include guided system walkdowns, component research in the technical library, and authoring portions of the manual.  
  • The intern will also assist in logging, tracking, and reporting of chiller and cooling tower efficiency throughout the term.  
  • Assisting with Power BI dashboard setup/fine tuning after setup, for the strategic goals for 2026. 

Professional Development Opportunities:

  • The intern will gain a basic understanding of a critical building system and its major components - including boilers, deaerators, air handling units, steam traps, pumps, fans, and building control systems.  
  • The intern will be provided with a basic understanding of the factors influencing the efficient operation of cooling system components and how to optimize component operation.

Work Environment:

  • This position operates primarily in a professional office 
  • Interns will be issued a NARA laptop for completing their work.

Education & Qualifications Requirements:

  • Educational Level/Program:
    • Current or former associate's degree student, bachelor's degree student, or graduate student
    • Degrees in engineering or other science degrees.
  • Qualifications:
    • Competent using computers for tasks including data entry, word processing, spreadsheets, and presentations
    • Can work independently and effectively
    • Attention to detail
    • Excellent verbal communication skills

Schedule:

  • Internship Dates: 6/8/2026 through 8/14/2026
  • Weekly Schedule Option: 10 hours per week

Area(s) of Interest: Facility Operations & Logistics

 

+ Legal Internship for the Office of General Counsel

2 internships available at the National Archives at College Park, MD 

Tasks & Responsibilities:

  • Volunteer interns at the Office of General Counsel will assist in providing litigation and administrative support to attorneys and archivists on the legal staff in a variety of ways, including but not limited to: researching legal issues relevant to the Federal Records Act, the Presidential Records Act, the Freedom of Information Act, and other applicable laws pertaining to the activities and operations of the National Archives and Records Administration; and providing support in the drafting of legal opinions, letters, memoranda, discovery responses and other legal documents, and in the preparation of documents for use in administrative and court proceedings.

Professional Development Opportunities:

  • As a small but vital office, the General Counsel's office offers interns the opportunity to become directly involved in the broad range of legal and policy matters that come into the office. 
  • We hope to create a challenging and interesting experience for an intern. Our "small law firm" environment enables an intern to experience a wide range of administrative law issues common to all federal agencies, as well as those issues unique to NARA that arise from its mission as the nation’s record keeper.

Work Environment:

  • The Office of General Counsel will cooperate in arrangements for law school credit.
  • We anticipate selecting 1-2 interns for the summer. 
  • Interns will be issued a NARA laptop for completing their work.

Education & Qualifications Requirements:

  • Educational Level/Program:
    • Current or former graduate degree student
    • Current law school students, second or third-year students preferred. 
  • Qualifications:
    • Strong analytical and writing skills as well as an interest in the arts and humanities are essential
    • Can work independently and effectively
    • Can balance multiple deadline-driven tasks or projects simultaneously
    • Attention to detail

Schedule:

  • Internship Date Options:
    • 6/1/2026 through 8/7/2026
    • 6/8/2026 through 8/14/2026
  • Weekly Schedule: 30 hours or more per week

Area(s) of Interest: Legal

The selecting official for this internship may also request a writing sample.

 

+ Records Management Internship for the Office of General Counsel

1 internship available at the National Archives at College Park, MD 

Tasks & Responsibilities:

  • The Museum Operations Division is responsible for the research, development, and implementation of both physical and digital exhibition projects. Our primary goal is to engage the public with primary source materials, promote historical thinking skills, and actively support the teaching of civics, history, and government across the educational spectrum. 
  • Interns will contribute to this mission by developing activities and resources that use primary sources to deepen historical understanding. These materials will be aligned with physical and digital exhibition projects, including primary source research, development of exhibition scripts, selection of original documents from the Archives’ holdings, and coordination of digital and web-based content.

Professional Development Opportunities:

  • As a small but vital office, the Office of General Counsel offers interns the opportunity to be involved in the broad range of matters that come into the office. 
  • The office hopes to create a challenging and interesting experience for an intern.

Work Environment:

  • Interns will work in an office setting conducting frequent computer work.
  • Interns will be issued a NARA laptop for completing their work.

Education & Qualifications Requirements:

  • Educational Level/Program:
    • Current or former associate's degree and bachelor's degree student
  • Qualifications:
    • Research capability
    • Competent using computers for tasks including data entry, word processing, spreadsheets, and presentations
    • Can work independently and effectively
    • Attention to detail

Schedule:

  • Internship Dates:
    • 6/1/2026 through 8/7/2026
    • 6/8/2026 through 8/14/2026
  • Weekly Schedule:
    • 10 hours per week
    • 11-19 hours per week

 

Area(s) of Interest: Archival Processing, Information Technology, Records Management

 

+ Security Specialist Assistant Internship - Maryland

1 internship available at the National Archives at College Park, MD 

Tasks & Responsibilities:

  • Assist with the ongoing key audit the workflow for ensuring all documentation is in place for rosters associated with the key rosters
  • Examine the key flow for unit level planning (Business Plan Analysis)
  • Ensure all documents and materials are complete and in the correct electronic folders
  • Automate the above processes, where possible

Professional Development Opportunities:

  • Gain a better understanding of the physical security specialists field by actively contributing to real-world projects, and developing essential skills (i.e., critical thinking, overall operations, communication, etc.)
  • Learn to identify customer needs, troubleshoot technical issues, automate contact lists, use workflows to auto-enroll contacts, collaborate with NARA sub offices, problem solve to effectively contribute to the team’s goals and objectives.

Work Environment:

  • A positive and professional work environment that is highly structured and organized.
  • Interns will have a cubicle, primarily working in an office setting and walking the building.
  • Interns will be issued a NARA laptop for completing their work.

Education & Qualifications Requirements:

  • Educational Level/Program:
    • Current or former associate’s degree, bachelor's degree or graduate student
    • Degree in criminal justice, facility operations & logistics, information technology, or records management
  • Qualifications:
    • Competent using computers for tasks including data entry, word processing, spreadsheets, and presentations
    • Can work independently and effectively
    • Can work collaboratively as part of a team
    • Attention to detail

Schedule:

  • Internship Date Options:
    • 6/1/2026 through 8/7/2026
    • 6/8/2026 through 8/14/2026
  • Weekly Schedule Options:
    • 10 hours per week
    • 11-19 hours per week
    • 20-29 hours per week
    • 30 hours or more per week

Area(s) of Interest: Communications, Facility Operations & Logistics, Information Technology, Records Management


The selecting official for this internship may also request a letter of recommendation.

 

+ SharePoint & MS Power Platform Development Internship for the Office of the Chief Information Officer (OCIO)

1 internship available at the National Archives at College Park, MD 

Tasks & Responsibilities:

  • Assist in developing and implementing automated workflows and business processes using SharePoint Online and Microsoft Power Automate (Flow).
  • Assist in the design, development, and deployment of business-facing applications and dashboards using Microsoft Power Apps and Power BI to improve data visualization and operational efficiency.

Professional Development Opportunities:

  • Intern will become competent in SharePoint and the MS Power Platform and develop basic extract, load, transform (ETL) skills
  • Intern will also get to experience working with a small and dynamic team who support each other with teamwork and technology solutions

Work Environment:

  • Interns will work in an office setting.
  • Interns will be issued a NARA laptop for completing their work.

Education & Qualifications Requirements:

  • Educational Level/Program:
    • Current or former associate's degree and bachelor's degree student
    • Degree programs in computer science, data science, information management, mathematics, or related fields are preferred but not required.
  • Qualifications:
    • Competent using computers for tasks including data entry, word processing, spreadsheets, and presentations
    • Can work independently and effectively
    • Can work collaboratively as part of a team
    • Attention to detail

Schedule:

  • Internship Dates: 6/1/2026 through 8/7/2026
  • Weekly Schedule: 20-29 hours per week

Area(s) of Interest: Information Technology, Records Management

+ Technical Reference Model (TRM) Management Internship for the Office of the Chief Information Officer (OCIO)

1 internship available at the National Archives at College Park, MD 

Tasks & Responsibilities:

  • Engage with the Technical Reference Model Governance Board (TRMGB) Chair to gain an understanding of the TRMGB process and requirements.
  • Under the guidance of the TRMGB Chair, update the existing TRMGB Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) documentation.
  • Engage with the Application Development and Architecture staff to analyze source TRM data and execute normalization.
  • Support development of a cloud-based (through either Amazon Web Services (AWS) or Microsoft (MS) Power Platform) database type solution to standardize data entry and make available for end-user presentation.

Professional Development Opportunities:

  • Gain an understanding of governance process development and implementation.
  • Become competent in either AWS or MS Power Platform technologies.
  • Develop data normalization understanding and techniques.
  • Experience working with a small and dynamic team who support each other with teamwork and technology solutions.

Work Environment:

  • Interns will work in an office setting.
    Interns will be issued a NARA laptop for completing their work.

Education & Qualifications Requirements:

  • Educational Level/Program:
    • Current or former high school student (must be at least 18 years old), associate's degree student, or bachelor's degree student
    • Degree programs in computer science, data science, data management, information management, or related fields are preferred but not required
  • Qualifications:
    • Competent using computers for tasks including data entry, word processing, spreadsheets, and presentations 
    • Can work independently and effectively
    • Attention to detail
    • Familiarity with Amazon Web Services (AWS) or Microsoft (MS) Power Platform

Schedule:

  • Internship Date Options:
    • 6/1/2026 through 8/7/2026
    • 6/8/2026 through 8/14/2026
  • Weekly Schedule Options:
    • 20-29 hours per week
    • 30 hours or more per week

Area(s) of Interest: Information Technology

 


Washington, DC-based Internships:


+ Archival Internship for the Center for Legislative Archives  

1 internship available at the National Archives in Washington, DC 

Tasks & Responsibilities:

  • Create a folder title list for records of the U.S. House of Representatives and U.S. Senate
  • Prepare U.S. Senate accession paperwork for scanning, process PDFs after scanning, and verify box location in RPL stacks
  • Help escort visitors and provide additional support for tours for Members of Congress and other distinguished guests
  • Perform digital image capture to support internal digitization of select documents
  • Shadow reference archivists to learn more about the archival reference process

Professional Development Opportunities:

  • Learn introductory archival skills and techniques and create work products like folder title lists and digital images while working in a busy archival reference environment. 
  • Gain experience working with original records from the legislative branch of government, including records from the US House of Representatives and the US Senate while working at the National Archives Building in Washington, DC.

Work Environment:

  • Work will be conducted in Center for Legislative Archives office spaces and stacks at the National Archives Building in Washington, D.C. (Archives 1) and possibly at the Center's offsite facility at the U.S. Government Publishing Office building. 
  • Work will largely be performed at a dedicated workstation. 
  • Some duties will entail lifting boxes of up to 25 pounds and transporting materials via carts.
  • Interns will be issued a NARA laptop for completing their work.

Education & Qualifications Requirements:

  • Educational Level/Program:
    • Current or former bachelor's and graduate degree student
    • Degree in history, public history, political science, museum studies, library science, information studies, or a related field
  • Qualifications:
    • Competent using computers for tasks including data entry, word processing, spreadsheets, and presentations
    • Can work collaboratively as part of a team
    • Attention to detail
    • Excellent verbal communication skills

Schedule:

  • Internship Date Option: 6/1/2026 through 8/7/2026 
  • Weekly Schedule:
    • 10 hours per week
    • 11-19 hours per week
    • 20-29 hours per week
    • 30 hours or more per week

Area(s) of Interest: Archival Processing, Conservation/Preservation, Digitizing Archival Materials, Legislative, Public History, Records Management, Reference Services

+ Education Programs Internship for the Museum Operations Division

2 internships available at the National Archives in Washington, DC 

Tasks & Responsibilities:

  • The primary goal of the Education Team at the National Archives is to design and implement educational programs and resources for K-12 students and educators. These initiatives engage diverse audiences with primary source materials, promote historical thinking skills, and support the teaching of civics, history, and government.
  • As an intern in the Museum Operations Division, you will contribute to this mission by developing educational activities and resources that use primary sources to deepen historical understanding, facilitating hands-on educational activities like discovery carts to engage visitors of all ages with original documents from the Archives’ holdings, and supporting in-person student programs to enhance critical thinking skills.

Professional Development Opportunities:

  • Interns will gain hands-on experience in developing inquiry-based educational activities and resources. They will collaborate in a professional setting to achieve project goals and build effective communication skills to engage museum visitors in educational programs.
  • Additionally, interns will gain exposure to museum education practices, learn about the role of primary sources in civic education, and understand how the National Archives supports students and educators.

Work Environment:

  • The work setting for this position is split between the office, the museum, and the learning center classroom at the National Archives in Washington, DC.  
  • This position requires standing for extended periods of time and may require occasional lifting of educational materials to prepare for programs in the museum space.
  • Interns must be ready to engage with the public on a daily basis and demonstrate a willingness to interact with visitors of all ages in a dynamic museum environment. 
  • Interns will be issued a NARA laptop for completing their work.

Education & Qualifications Requirements:

  • Educational Level/Program:
    • Current or former bachelor's and graduate degree student
    • Degree in history, museum studies, history education, or a related field
  • Qualifications:
    • Research capability
    • Can work collaboratively as part of a team
    • Attention to detail
    • Excellent verbal communication skills

Schedule:

  • Internship Dates:  6/1/2026 through 8/7/2026
  • Weekly Schedule Options:
    • 11-19 hours per week
    • 20-29 hours per week

Area(s) of Interest: Education & Public Programs

The selecting official for this internship may also request a letter of recommendation.

+ Exhibits Internship for the Museum Operations Division - District of Columbia

 1 internship available at the National Archives in Washington, DC

Tasks & Responsibilities:

  • The Museum Operations Division is responsible for the research, development, and implementation of both physical and digital exhibition projects. 
  • Our primary goal is to engage the public with primary source materials, promote historical thinking skills, and actively support the teaching of civics, history, and government across the educational spectrum. 
  • Interns will contribute to this mission by developing activities and resources that use primary sources to deepen historical understanding. These materials will be aligned with physical and digital exhibition projects, including primary source research, development of exhibition scripts, selection of original documents from the Archives’ holdings, and coordination of digital and web-based content.

Professional Development Opportunities:

  • Interns will gain hands-on experience in all phases of researching, developing, and implementing physical and digital exhibition projects. They will collaborate in a professional setting to achieve project goals and build effective skills that ensure an understanding of the exhibition project lifecycle.
  • Interns will have the opportunity to collaborate closely with a diverse team of curators, archivists, educators, and technology specialists in a professional, interdisciplinary setting. This collaboration is designed to foster teamwork, effective communication, and problem-solving abilities necessary to achieve complex project goals and build effective skills to succeed in cultural heritage institutions. 

Work Environment:

  • The duties of this position primarily involve conducting desk-based research and writing, both within the office environment and in NARA’s designated research room facilities.
  • Interns will be issued a NARA laptop for completing their work.

Education & Qualifications Requirements:

  • Educational Level/Program:
    • Current or former graduate degree student
    • Degree program in history, public history, museum studies, or a related field
  • Qualifications:
    • Research capability
    • Can work independently and effectively
    • Can work collaboratively as part of a team
    • Strong writing ability

Schedule:

  • Internship Date Options: 
    • 6/1/2026 through 8/7/2026
    • 6/8/2026 through 8/14/2026
  • Weekly Schedule: 
    • 11-19 hours per week
    • 20-29 hours per week

Area(s) of Interest: Museums Collections & Exhibits Management, Public History

The selecting official for this internship may also request a writing sample. 

 

+ Facilities Operations Support Internship 

2 internships available at the National Archives at Washington, DC

Tasks & Responsibilities:

  • Support Facilities with active projects, learn to troubleshoot issues in real time, support day-to-day operations, and shadow our Quality Assurance Team. 

Professional Development Opportunities:

  • Gain insight into planning, coordination in a live environment
  • Have the opportunity to shadow the Logistics Team
  • Learn how large-scale facilities are managed and promote safety 
  • Communicate with vendors and staff 

Work Environment:

  • This position operates primarily in a professional office 
    Interns will be issued a NARA laptop for completing their work.

Education & Qualifications Requirements:

  • Educational Level/Program:
    • Current or former high school (must be at least 18 years old), associate's degree, bachelor's degree, or graduate student
  • Qualifications:
    • Competent using computers for tasks including data entry, word processing, spreadsheets, and presentations
    • Can work independently and effectively
    • Can perform under pressure and/or in a limited timeframe, Excellent verbal communication skills

Schedule:

  • Internship Date Option: 6/8/2026 through 8/14/2026
  • Weekly Schedule Options:
    • 11-19 hours per week
    • 20-29 hours per week
    • 30 hours or more per week

Area(s) of Interest: Communications, Facility Operations & Logistics, Information Technology, Special Events


The selecting official for this internship may also request a writing sample and letter of recommendation.

 

+ Legal Internship for the Information Security Oversight Office (ISOO)

1 internship available at the National Archives in Washington, DC 

Tasks & Responsibilities:

  • Research and writing relating to the national security policy development process
  • Support interagency coordination on the implementation of government-wide policies overseen by the ISOO

Professional Development Opportunities:

  • Improved research and writing skills, including the development of federal regulations and federal wide guidance. 
  • Thorough grounding in the federal government's systems for safeguarding and sharing sensitive information. 
  • Experience with the national security decision-making apparatus and the policy-making process, from coordination with the National Security Council and the White House to implementation of policy at the agency level. 
  • Exposure to multiple federal agencies, their mission areas, key leaders, and national security experts. 
  • Opportunities to present their research conclusions to senior government officials.

Work Environment:

  • Interns will work in an office setting.
  • Interns will be issued a NARA laptop for completing their work.

Education & Qualifications Requirements:

  • Educational Level/Program:
    • Current or former graduate student
    • Current law school student
  • Qualifications:
    • Research capability
    • Can work independently and effectively
    • Can work collaboratively as part of a team
    • Strong writing ability

Schedule:

  • Internship Date Options: 
    • 6/1/2026 through 8/7/2026
    • 6/8/2026 through 8/14/2026
  • Weekly Schedule Options:
    • 10 hours per week
    • 11-19 hours per week

Area(s) of Interest: Legal

 

+ National Security Internship for the Information Security Oversight Office  (ISOO) 

3 internships available at the National Archives at Washington, DC 

Tasks & Responsibilities:

  • Interns will report to the ISOO director and support research and public communications efforts relating to: ISOO's oversight of the national security classification system, the controlled unclassified information system, and our role in staffing the Public Interest Declassification Board. 
  • Interns will conduct targeted research, draft report summaries, and assist in the planning of public engagement. 

Professional Development Opportunities:

  • Improved research and writing skills, including the development of federal regulations and federal wide guidance. 
  • Thorough grounding in the federal government's systems for safeguarding and sharing sensitive information. 
  • Experience with the national security decision-making apparatus and the policy-making process, from coordination with the National Security Council and the White House to implementation of policy at the agency level. 
  • Exposure to multiple federal agencies, their mission areas, key leaders, and national security experts. 
  • Opportunities to present their research conclusions to senior government officials.

Work Environment:

  • Interns will work in an office setting.
  • Interns will be issued a NARA laptop for completing their work.

Education & Qualifications Requirements:

  • Educational Level/Program:
    • Current or former bachelor's degree or graduate student
    • Degree in international affairs, political science, national security policy, public communication, and media studies
  • Qualifications:
    • Research capability
    • Can work independently and effectively
    • Can work collaboratively as part of a team
    • Strong writing ability

Schedule:

  • Internship Date Options:
    • 6/1/2026 through 8/7/2026
    • 6/8/2026 through 8/14/2026
  • Weekly Schedule Options:
    • 10 hours per week
    • 11-19 hours per week

Area(s) of Interest: Communications, Editorial, External & Public Affairs, Legal, Legislative

 

+ Security Specialist Assistant Internship - District of Columbia

1 internship available at the National Archives at Washington, DC

Tasks & Responsibilities:

  • Assist with the ongoing key audit the workflow for ensuring all documentation is in place for rosters associated with the key rosters
  • Examine the key flow for unit level planning (Business Plan Analysis)
  • Ensure all documents and materials are complete and in the correct electronic folders
  • Automate the above processes, where possible

Professional Development Opportunities:

  • Gain a better understanding of the physical security specialists field by actively contributing to real-world projects, and developing essential skills (i.e., critical thinking, overall operations, communication, etc.)
  • Learn to identify customer needs, troubleshoot technical issues, automate contact lists, use workflows to auto-enroll contacts, collaborate with NARA sub offices, problem solve to effectively contribute to the team’s goals and objectives

Work Environment:

  • A positive and professional work environment that is highly structured and organized.
  • Interns will have a cubicle, primarily working in an office setting and walking the building.
  • Interns will be issued a NARA laptop for completing their work.

Education & Qualifications Requirements:

  • Educational Level/Program:
    • Current or former associate’s degree, bachelor's degree or graduate student
    • Degree in criminal justice, facility operations & logistics, information technology, or records management
  • Qualifications:
    • Competent using computers for tasks including data entry, word processing, spreadsheets, and presentations
    • Can work independently and effectively
    • Can work collaboratively as part of a team
    • Attention to detail

Schedule:

  • Internship Date Options:
    • 6/1/2026 through 8/7/2026
    • 6/8/2026 through 8/14/2026
  • Weekly Schedule Options:
    • 10 hours per week
    • 11-19 hours per week
    • 20-29 hours per week
    • 30 hours or more per week

Area(s) of Interest: Communications, Facility Operations & Logistics, Information Technology, Records Management


The selecting official for this internship may also request a letter of recommendation.

 


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