Scientists, engineers, and other professionals from around the world come to Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) to solve some of the nation’s greatest challenges through research in fundamental science, energy resilience, and national security.

PNNL is a research institution with Pacific Northwest roots and global reach. Our researchers confront problems with the highest consequences for society and human understanding – from working to understand the origins of the universe, to developing ultra-low background detectors to aid in treaty verification activities, to engineering and deploying systems to help make our airports safer.

Join Us

We are a collaborative team of experts—spanning scientists to engineers to project managers to instructional designers— with a passion for science and technology, innovation, and the national security mission.

Positions are currently available for work in a wide range of research areas, including physics, materials science, chemistry, electrical engineering, software engineering, mechanical engineering, systems engineering, project management, and instructional designs. Positions may be performed remotely or on a PNNL campus based on business needs. Visit our careers page for all available positions. 

 Get to Know Us

Intern at PNNL

PNNL provides work-based learning experiences for as many as 900 graduate and undergraduate students annually. We’re looking for creative, motivated students who have a passion for solving critical national challenges.

• The National Security Internship Program (NSIP) offers a chance to engage in hands-on learning and participate in a research experience with an assigned mentor, as well as to interact with other research staff at the top of their field. 

• The National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) Minority-Serving Institution Partnership Program (MSIPP) is a research-based experience for students by providing competitive, merit-based opportunities. NNSA's MSIPP develops strategic partnerships that create and support a sustainable career pathway that prepares talented students to make immediate and significant contributions to the national laboratories, plants, and sites. 

• While not an internship, the no-cost Radiation Detection for Nuclear Security Summer School is perfect for students enrolled in graduate programs in fields relevant to radiation detection, such as nuclear engineering, nuclear physics, nuclear chemistry, and high-energy physics.

Positions are available in Richland and Seattle, WA, and may be performed remotely or on campus at PNNL based on business need. Learn more about the other types of internships offered at PNNL.