Come Join the DOE Isotope Team

The U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Power Up Intern Program is the Department’s dynamic new initiative to cultivate the next generation of Federal talent and innovators. The program is for those who are eager to apply their skills and potential to advance our Nation's science and energy future. It is strategically designed to provide unparalleled hands-on work experience, foster a deep understanding of Federal service, and create a pipeline for exceptional individuals to join the Department and the broader Federal Government workforce.

DOE’s Office of Science has one intern position available in the Office of Isotope R&D and Production (IRP), located at DOE Headquarters (Washington, DC) or DOE Germantown (Germantown, MD). Due to operational needs, IRP seeks an interdisciplinary physical scientist or engineer to serve as a program intern. Additional details about IRP and this role are below.

Under this program, an intern will be hired to IRP as a full-time Excepted Service employee, at the GS-11 level. The duration of the internship is flexible between a minimum of two years and a maximum of four years.

The duty station for this position is Washington, DC. The position is on-site, with limited situational telework flexibilities. Appointees are eligible for Federal benefits and leave. Candidates are subject to a basic, public trust suitability/background investigation and are not required to hold a security clearance.

Apply here: https://www.usajobs.gov/job/880708600 

What is the Office of Isotope R&D and Production?

The Office of Isotope R&D and Production advances and sustains a reliable, secure, and innovative domestic supply of critical isotopes to meet U.S. needs in medicine, national security, industry, and research by fostering cutting-edge research, enhancing production capabilities, strengthening strategic partnerships, and developing workforce.

What will a Power Up Intern at IRP do?

The IRP is seeking a GS-11 developmental intern to support our mission-critical operations. In this role, you will apply professional engineering or physical science concepts under the mentorship and general supervision of senior Program Managers. This position offers a pathway to build foundational skills in federal program management, scientific oversight, and strategic budgeting.

What You Will Do:

Drive Facility Excellence: Assist in coordinating and monitoring isotope production facilities at national laboratories and universities. You will track project performance, participate in long-term strategic planning, and evaluate facility effectiveness against modern technological advancements.

Facilitate Scientific Research: Support the direction of isotope production and processing R&D. You will help prepare calls for proposals, coordinate independent peer reviews, identify qualified reviewers, and monitor the scientific progress of ongoing IRP initiatives.

Manage Resources & Reporting: Assist in formulating and justifying budget requests and spending plans for facility operations and capital improvements. You will translate complex operational data into analytical reports, technical documents, and leadership briefings on emerging technologies.