PNNL works on answers to questions that push the frontiers of science and knowledge, and on applying research to solving real-world challenges (Video: Pacific Northwest National Laboratory)

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. 

At PNNL, we recognize that our people are our strength. And when the diversity of our staff members comes together, that's when the true magic happens. Learn more about PNNL's commitment to diversity and inclusion.

 Get to Know Us

Craig Aalseth: Shallow Underground Laboratory (Video: Pacific Northwest National Laboratory)
John L. Orrell: Discoveries of the Universe Large & Small (Video: Pacific Northwest National Laboratory)

Intern at PNNL

PNNL's main campus is located in Richland, Washington—take a tour!

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 Workforce opportunities to Increase Research Engagement and Diversity Program (WIRED) is a student/early career development partnership between PNNL and the Department of Homeland Security. WIRED engages Historically Black Colleges and Universities, Hispanic Serving Institutions, and other Minority Serving Institutions that provide research-based experience for students who are traditionally underrepresented in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) majoring in both STEM and non-STEM focused fields.
  • The Minority-Serving Institution Partnership Program-National Nuclear Security Administration (MSIPP-NNSA) is a research-based experience for students who are traditionally underrepresented in STEM. MSIPP-NNSA is designed to build a sustainable pipeline between the Department of Energy facilities, national laboratories, and minority-serving institutions in STEM disciplines. 
  • 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.