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U.S. DOT Volpe Center Pathways Internship Positions Available

DC Volpe Team on bus
At the U.S. DOT Volpe Center, our people are our greatest asset. (U.S. DOT Volpe Center photo)

As a part of the “Apply Online” process before you submit your application you will be asked to complete a checklist to identify the occupation(s) you wish to apply for. 

Please thoroughly read the descriptions below prior to making your selection(s). 

You must also provide documentation that meet the position and series requirements as listed in the job announcement for each occupation that you select.

Computer Scientist (1599) Mathematics and Statistics Student Trainee Series (e.g., Computer Science, Cybersecurity, or similar fields)

Support the development of IT system requirements, develop or enhance software products and applications for projects such as vessel tracking, software development for cybersecurity/building policies, video/bus data analysis, geospatial analysis, or safety data analysis using big data systems. 

Data Scientist (1599) Mathematics and Statistics Student Trainee Series (e.g., Statistics, Mathematics, Data Science, Database Management, or similar fields)

Opportunities in various technical divisions may include data visualization, software design, enterprise architecture, system testing and deployment, infrastructure support, cybersecurity services, geospatial/GIS analysis, or safety data analysis using big data systems.

Economist (0199) 

Support projects that may include program and operational test evaluations, industry and cost studies, benefit cost studies supporting regulatory action and forecasting. Consulting projects are designed to assist clients through the development and use of decision support tools and in the analysis of policy and program options relating to transportation systems.  

General Engineer (0899)

Areas of focus include, but are not limited to: 

  • Aerospace – analysis of aviation noise, analysis of aircraft wake data collected by sensors at major airports, or planning, testing, and evaluating the FAA’s Next Generation Air Transportation System (NextGen)
  • Computer and Electrical – support projects such as conducting cyber security assessments of automotive electronic control systems and controller area network, assessing system security for connected and automated vehicles or assist in the development of new software systems for aviation, marine, and surface transportation systems
  • Environmental – analyze, interpret, and provide solutions to tasks associated with hazardous waste management and remediation, environmental preservation and conservation, and environmental compliance
  • Mechanical and Civil – support projects that investigate topics such as: vehicles and structures such as aging aircraft, tank car puncture resistance, automobile crash worthiness, railroad truck safety, graphic arts, statistics/dynamics, and highway/transportation engineering (highway design, construction, materials, survey and mapping, and asset management
  • Facilities – conduct engineering studies that affect major/minor alterations, repairs, maintenance, environmental operations, and enhancement for specialized research facilities. 

Engineering Psychologist (0199) 

Human Factors interns perform a range of evaluation and analysis using laboratories, simulators, and other research technologies to apply knowledge on human capability, judgment, and decision-making to complex transportation systems to inform design and formulate policy. Areas of focus include: Aviation/Surface Transportation Human Factors, Safety Management, Safety Information Systems, or Safety Measurement & Analysis.

Operations Research Analyst (1599) Mathematics and Statistics Student Trainee Series

Use analytical and communication skills to select and modify appropriate methods of operation, analyze results, and prepare reports. Projects may involve fuel economy, discrete choice analysis, automotive supply chain/market data and analysis, aviation systems, highway vehicle crashworthiness/crash prevention, Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) concepts, telecommunications, and/or navigation/surveillance systems.

Policy Analyst (0199) and Community Planners (0099)

Analysts and Planners serve on a team that analyzes, develops, and implements policies and guidance.  Project work may include emerging trends in transportation technology (connected and automated vehicles, vehicle-to-infrastructure communications, etc.), decision analysis, risk assessment, economic regulations, qualitative analysis, strategic planning, program evaluation, environmental analysis/stewardship, transportation legislation, planning, professional capacity building, and community/stakeholder involvement.

Environmental Protection Specialist (0099)

Specialists analyze and interpret the implications of federal, state, and local environmental regulations for government and other agencies. The individual will serve as a member of a team, responsible for performing tasks within the functional areas of environmental compliance, consultation, water and air quality, and environmental management.

Program Support Assistant (0399) Administration and Office Support Student Trainee Series (e.g., Legal, Management, Administration, Research, Government, or similar fields)

Manage a varied workload including office automation support such as: gathering and maintaining data, producing and creating documents, spreadsheets, charts, graphs, etc., coordinating meetings, and working on special projects.