1DOT Pathways Internship
Don't Delay - Start Your Internship Today with FHWA!
The U.S. Department of Transportation is hiring for the 1DOT Pathways Internship Program (GS-0099-03/04/05/07 - from $17.60 to $35.97 hourly) in Washington (DC) and Cambridge (MA). To apply, visit https://www.usajobs.gov/job/858434500 (open to U.S. Citizens, Nationals, or those who owe allegiance to the United States, and currently enrolled students at an accredited school). This internship announcement closes on 03/06/2026 (but submit your application as soon as possible to receive the best consideration).
The U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) provides national leadership to ensure a fast, safe, efficient, accessible, and convenient transportation system. USDOT also develops comprehensive transportation policy, regulates safety across all modes of travel - including air, rail, transit, maritime, and more - and administers Federal funding to maintain and modernize the United States of America's national infrastructure.
Click here to apply for the 1DOT Pathways Internship Program!
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USDOT is recruiting for a variety of student internship positions under the Pathways Internship Program. This is a temporary internship to complete project work that is temporary in nature. The appointment is not-to-exceed 09/19/2026 and may be extended without further competition to a new temporary appointment at management's discretion based on the need of the organization and provided the employee remains eligible for employment in the Pathways Internship Program.
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Internships are expected to begin in May/June 2026.
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The 1DOT Internship Program integrates on-the-job training with pertinent education by an accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. The individual series are listed below for reference and individual qualification standards are available at the USA Jobs hyperlink.
The 1DOT Internship Program is designed to provide interns an opportunity to broaden their perspectives on issues facing government. Interns will work throughout USDOT and support higher-level management in coordinating, facilitating, and implementing activities within the office to which they are assigned. They will also be exposed to and participate in activities, innovations, and challenges facing the transportation industry. Some sample duties and responsibilities are listed below:
- Performing a variety of assignments selected to broaden skills and provide practical experience aimed at developing the employee's skill and knowledge to perform progressively complex assignments.
- Assignments designed to orient, train, and increase the student's knowledge in their perspective area of study.
- Assisting specialists or analysts in developing materials for briefings, reports, presentations, and conference materials needed by supervisors and executive managers.
- Developing documents, such as research-based papers, graphs, charts, and other data for use by transportation officials in defining transportation challenges and recommending options with potential solutions.
- Participating in meetings, events, and briefings.
The ideal candidates are currently enrolled or accepted for enrollment students in accredited colleges, trade schools, or other qualifying educational institutions with an interest in transportation and "majoring" in business, technology, mathematics, economics, computer science, information technology, cybersecurity, administration, operations, finance, research, or other majors.
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Each selectee of the 1DOT Internship Program will work in one of the occupational series listed below. The list also provides a brief description of each:
0199 - covers student trainees performing developmental assignments in the social sciences, psychology, or welfare fields to gain practical experience.
0299 - covers student trainees focused on learning and applying human resources management principles, policies, and practices.
0399 - covers student trainees performing entry-level general administrative, clerical, or office service duties to support agency operations.
0599 - covers student trainees engaged in developmental work related to accounting, auditing, financial management, or budget administration.
0899 - covers student trainees involving practical, entry-level work in engineering or architecture to support their academic learning.
1199 - covers student trainees performing developmental assignments in business, industry, contracting, or procurement functions.
1599 - covers student trainees engaged in learning and applying mathematical, statistical, or computer science principles in a practical setting.
1899 - covers student trainees participating in developmental assignments related to regulatory compliance, inspection, or investigative work.
2199 - covers student trainees focused on gaining practical experience in transportation operations, logistics, or traffic management.
2299 - covers student trainees performing developmental work in information technology, which can include systems analysis, network administration, or cybersecurity.
Click here to apply for the 1DOT Pathways Internship Program!
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These 1DOT Internship Program positions are in the following locations - selectees will work in either of these cities for the duration of their USDOT experience:
Washington (also known as the District of Columbia) is the capital of the United States. It sits on the Potomac River, surrounded by the state of Maryland and the commonwealth of Virginia. It's defined by imposing neoclassical monuments and buildings - including the iconic ones that house the Federal government's three branches: the Capitol, White House, and Supreme Court. It's also home to iconic museums and performing arts venues (such as the Kennedy Center).
Cambridge is across the Charles River from Boston. It's home to Harvard University. At the heart of Campus, grassy "Harvard Yard" is anchored by the neoclassical Widener Library. Harvard Square has cafes, bars, and bookstores. The Harvard Art Museum comprise the Fogg, Busch-Reisinger, and Arthur M. Sackler collections. Southeast is the prestigious Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).
Click here to apply for the 1DOT Pathways Internship Program!
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USDOT is comprised of 11 operating administrations (also known as modes of transportation). Interns will work in one of the following - below, they are listed with some additional details:
Federal Highway Administration - FHWA provides stewardship over the construction, maintenance, and preservation of the Nation's highways, bridges, and tunnels. FHWA also conducts research and provides technical assistance to state and local agencies to improve safety, mobility, and to encourage innovation.
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration - FMCSA regulates the commercial motor vehicle industry to reduce crashes, injuries, and fatalities. FMCSA also enforces safety regulations, targets high-risk carriers, and provides educational resources to commercial drivers and the public.
Federal Railroad Administration - FRA oversees the safety, reliability, and efficiency of the nation's freight and passenger rail networks. FRA also enforces rail safety regulations, invests in rail corridor development, and conducts research to advance rail technology and safety standards.
Federal Transit Administration - FTA provides financial and technical assistance to local public transit systems, including buses, subways, light rail, and ferries. FTA also oversees safety measures and supports the modernization of transit infrastructure to improve public mobility and accessibility.
Maritime Administration - MARAD promotes the use and development of the nation's waterborne transportation system and its merchant marine. MARAD also maintains the National Defense Reserve Fleet and funds infrastructure improvements at U.S. ports to ensure seamless maritime operations and national security.
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration - NHTSA works to save lives and prevent injuries by reducing vehicle-related crashes. NHTSA also establishes vehicle safety standards, conducts safety testing, and funds campaigns to prevent impaired or distracted driving.
Office of the Inspector General - OIG conducts independent audits and investigations of USDOT programs and operations. OIG also works to prevent fraud, waste, and abuse, ensuring that taxpayer funds are used effectively, and transportation initiatives operate with integrity.
Office of the Secretary of Transportation - OST provides executive leadership and strategic vision for the entire Department of Transportation. OST also coordinates national transportation policy, negotiates international transportation agreements, and manages cross-modal funding and initiatives.
Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration - PHMSA regulates the safe and secure movement of hazardous materials by all modes of transportation, including pipelines. PHMSA also establishes national safety standards, conducts inspections, and educates first responders to prevent environmental damage and protect public safety.
Great Lakes-St. Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation - GLS operates and maintains the U.S. portion of the binational St. Lawrence Seaway. GLS also works alongside its Canadian counterpart to ensure the safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible movement of maritime commerce through the Great Lakes region.
Click here to apply for the 1DOT Pathways Internship Program!
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