Summary
Make an impact while you learn. The Semester of Service Program offers students a volunteer project-based opportunity to support real Federal missions, gaining hands-on experience and valuable career-ready skills. With this project, you'll support an analysis-based project (s).Major Duties
Work Schedule and Flexibilities: Flexible, In-person/hybrid preferred, remote may be an option Project Description: The student will support the work of the Assessment, Competency, and Employee Survey team by participating in key activities related to job analysis and hiring assessment development. The student will assist with conducting and documenting job analyses, including gathering job information, organizing data, and supporting subject matter expert sessions. They will also help design and build surveys using an online survey platform, ensuring high-quality data collection and contributing to the overall survey development process. Throughout the summer, the student will gain exposure to the application of hiring assessments in organizational settings, learning how assessment tools are selected, developed, validated, and used to support evidence based hiring decisions. This position offers hands-on experience in applied psychology, industrial-organizational (I/O) methods, and workforce assessment practices.Education
To qualify, you must be enrolled not less than half-time in an accredited trade school, technical or vocational institute, junior college, college, university, or other accredited educational institution. You also must be in good academic standing as defined by your institution. Attach a copy of your transcripts to your application package for verification.Requirements
To participate in this Program, you must: Be a U.S. Citizen or U.S. National studying in the U.S. or abroad. International students on valid visas may participate if they meet applicable immigration, visa, and agency authorities. Be enrolled not less than half-time in an accredited trade school, technical or vocational institute, junior college, college, university, or other accredited educational institution. Be in good academic standing as defined by your institution. Commit to volunteering 8 - 20 hours per week for a minimum of 90 days. Complete all required onboarding documentation assigned by the Department of the Interior and your academic institution. Agree to volunteer. This position is unpaid. No compensation, stipends, or hiring preference will be granted from this work. You may use this volunteer experience to qualify for future jobs you choose to apply for. Agree to understanding volunteers are not Federal employees.Evaluations
Your application will be evaluated by DOI personnel to determine your eligibility for the position and your application will be forwarded to the opportunity manager for review.How to Apply
To apply for this position, you must submit the documentation specified in the Required Documents section above. A complete application package must be sent by 11:59 PM (ET) on 05/10/2026 to pathways_pmf@ios.doi.gov to receive consideration. Your application email should indicate the project(s) to which you are seeking consideration. We are not accepting online applications, please follow the instructions above to apply.What to Expect Next
Once your application is received you will receive a confirmation notification by email. Your application will be evaluated by DOI personnel to determine your eligibility for the position and your application will be forwarded to the opportunity manager for review.Required Documents
To apply for this position, you must submit a complete Application Package which includes: Your resume (two or fewer pages) showing: - Your work experience including start and end dates. - Education information, such as the name of your school and dates of attendance. - Any knowledge, skills or abilities you've gained through education that relate to the project. Proof of current enrollment not less than half-time in a trade school, technical or vocational institute, junior college, college, university, or other accredited educational institution.Benefits
This is an unpaid volunteer experience. Student volunteers are not considered Federal employees for any purpose other than injury compensation and laws related to the Federal Tort Claims Act, and service is not creditable for leave accrual or other employee benefits. Professional experience. Meaningful project work with clear deliverables, regular supervision, and federal mentorship. Skill development. Hands-on application of academic knowledge in real-world Federal operations. Career exploration. Exposure to Federal missions, workplace culture, and potential career pathways. Protection and support. - Coverage under Federal Tort Claims Act - Workers' compensation for service-related injuries - Structured onboarding and ongoing supervision
