NOAA’s National Ocean Service is hiring one Student Trainee (Administrative) through the federal Pathways Internship Program in Silver Spring, Maryland. The internship lists annualized pay from $57,736 to $101,097 at the ZA-2 pay band, equivalent to GS-7/9.
The announcement opened August 13 and closes August 19, 2026. The appointment is not to exceed one year, although it may be extended if the student continues to meet Pathways eligibility requirements and the office still needs the position.
What the Intern Will Do
The Student Trainee supports routine administrative and program work under supervision. The assignments are designed to build federal work experience while supporting the National Ocean Service.
The intern receives on-the-job and formal training and works with clear objectives, priorities and deadlines.
Main Duties
- Help maintain accountable property records.
- Provide contract-management support.
- Assist with tracking time and attendance.
- Update manuals, policies, directives and memoranda using correct formatting and written English.
- Create spreadsheets for program or project work.
- Maintain databases and administrative records.
- Prepare administrative documents and support routine project-management tasks.
Student Eligibility
Applicants must be accepted for enrollment or currently enrolled in a qualifying educational institution in good academic standing. They must be enrolled at least half-time as defined by the school, or be in an eligible career or technical education program.
The selected student must continue to meet the definition of a student throughout the Pathways appointment.
Schedule and Location
The internship is based in Silver Spring, Maryland. It is telework eligible under agency policy but is not a remote job.
NOAA states that the intern may work full-time during the summer and a flexible part-time schedule during the school year. Travel is not required.
Conversion Possibility
The announcement includes possible eligibility for noncompetitive conversion to a permanent or term federal position after completion of the Pathways requirements. Conversion is not automatic or guaranteed.
Among other conditions, conversion can require successful completion of the academic program, qualifying work hours, satisfactory performance and an available position.
Documents Students Need
If selected, the intern must provide official transcripts and/or a letter from the school confirming enrollment in a degree, certificate or qualifying career program on at least a half-time basis, good academic standing and the expected graduation date. Student status must be maintained throughout the appointment.
The federal application also requires the questionnaires and supporting documentation listed in USAJOBS. Applicants must meet the qualification requirements by the closing date and be suitable for federal employment after the required background investigation.
What the ZA-2 Level Means
NOAA uses the Department of Commerce Alternative Personnel System for this position. The ZA-2 band is described as equivalent to GS-7/9. The internship is intended to provide progressively useful administrative experience while the student receives supervision and training.
The work is practical rather than observational. The trainee will handle spreadsheets, databases, manuals, property records, contract-support tasks and administrative documents that contribute directly to the National Ocean Service’s day-to-day operations.
How to Apply
Applications are submitted through USAJOBS. Student documentation is important: if selected, the applicant must provide official transcripts and/or a school letter confirming enrollment, academic standing and expected graduation date.
Applications Closed
The closing date for this opportunity was 19 August 2026.