The U.S. DOT Volpe Center continually seeks talented and entrepreneurial students and recent graduates to join our world-class, multi-disciplinary scientific and technical teams to help us resolve real-world transportation problems. 

Through our Pathways Program, which opens annually each fall, we provide opportunities for students and recent graduates to be considered for federal employment through three distinct programs: 

• Internship Program: For students enrolled in a wide variety of educational programs from high school to graduate level.
   
• Recent Graduates Program: For individuals who have graduated within the last two years from a qualifying degree program. Veterans precluded from applying to the program due to military service obligations will retain eligibility for up to six years after graduation.
   
• Presidential Management Fellows Program: For individuals who have completed, or are expected to complete, an advanced or professional degree program within the last two years.

Start Your Job Search

The U.S. DOT Volpe Center offers Pathways Programs positions in a wide variety of fields.  

Visit the USAjobs Students and Recent Graduates page for video tutorials and other tools to start your job search. 

Tips for Pathway Applications

• Apply Early! Application limits will apply.
• Give Detail! Provide a descriptive resume, and explain your experience. 
• Be Thorough! Include ALL transcripts (past and present). 
• Be Current! Provide transcript or letter showing current semester school enrollment. 

Common Application Questions

• How can I check my application status?

To check on the status of you application, log on to USAjobs. Select Application Status. You will see a list of all applications that you have submitted. Review the list, locate the desired vacancy, and click on the link entitled More Information under the Application Status column.  You will be transferred to the DOT Hiring System. Select to see View Detailed Status and then Continue to see a list of all DOT vacancies to which you have applied and specific information on the status of each of your applications.    

• How will my application be evaluated?

Your responses to the vacancy‐specific questions are the basis for a numerical rating calculated by the system, in accordance with a built‐in rating and ranking scheme. Qualified candidates will be assigned a score or a rating not including points that may be assigned for veterans' preference. Those applicants that provided the required documents will be reviewed to see if they meet the specialized experience requirements. Your answers to the questions will be verified by a human resources specialist against information provided in your resume and narrative responses. Be sure that your resume clearly supports your responses. If you exaggerate or falsify your experience and/or education, you will be removed from consideration. If you fail to provide enough information in your resume to support your answers, you will be removed from consideration.    

• How can I modify my resume or USAjobs information? 

Log in to USAjobs.gov. Once logged in, you can manage all your information.  This includes updating and adding resumes, uploading supporting documentation, and managing your job agents.   

• What if I have questions or issues during the application process? 

For assistance applying for announcements, please contact the U.S. DOT Automated Staffing Group at (202) 366‐1298, TRANSJOBS@dot.gov, or Fax: 571‐258‐4052 Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. ET.