Top 20 Paid Engineering Internships for High School Students
Internships are an excellent way for high school students to gain hands-on experience, develop practical skills, and explore potential career paths without the high costs of traditional programs. They provide industry exposure, mentorship, and networking opportunities that can be invaluable for future academic and career pursuits.
For students passionate about engineering and technology, internships offer a chance to work on real-world projects, gain technical expertise, and collaborate with professionals in the field. A paid internship is even more beneficial, as it enhances your resume and rewards you with a stipend, allowing you to earn while you learn. To help aspiring engineers find the best opportunities, we’ve curated a list of the top 20 paid engineering internships for high school students!
1. Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) Scholars Program
Location: Multiple AFRL sites across the country
Cost: Free; interns receive a stipend of $501 per week
Program Dates: 9 weeks, typically from early June to early August
Application Deadline: Typically in January
Eligibility:
Must be at least 16 years old
Must be a U.S. citizen
Must have a minimum 3.0 GPA
Must be available full-time (40 hours per week) and work in person at an AFRL facility during the summer
The AFRL Scholars Program is a highly competitive, paid research internship for upper-level high school students interested in aerospace engineering, mechanical design, electromagnetics, and other advanced STEM fields. You will work alongside AFRL scientists and engineers, contributing to real-world research projects that support the U.S. Air Force’s technological advancements.
Interns engage in hands-on research, technical skill development, and mentorship, gaining insight into aerospace innovation and defense technology. Past projects have included developing cold atom sources for navigation technology and creating AI-powered chatbots for natural communication. With access to leading experts and cutting-edge laboratories, this program is an exceptional opportunity for students exploring STEM careers in aerospace and defense research.
2. Amazon Future Engineer Internship
Location: Applicable to accredited institutions across the U.S.; the internship component is typically offered at Amazon's various offices and facilities. Specific locations vary.
Stipend: Scholarship recipients are awarded up to $10,000 per year, renewable for up to three years, totaling a maximum of $40,000.
Program Dates: Specific dates vary by internship
Application Deadline: Applications will open in the fall
Eligibility: Open to U.S. high school seniors who:
Are enrolled in or have completed a high school or college dual-degree course in computer science, engineering, or robotics.
Have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.3 on a 4.0 scale (or equivalent).
Plan to pursue a bachelor’s degree in computer science or engineering from an accredited four-year college or from a two-year college with the intent to transfer to a four-year institution.
The Amazon Future Engineer Internship offers high school seniors a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in software development and cutting-edge technology at Amazon headquarters. Designed for students passionate about computer science and engineering, this program immerses you in real-world projects related to cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and e-commerce.As an intern, you will collaborate with Amazon professionals, working on Amazon Web Services (AWS), Alexa voice technology, and the Amazon retail platform. By the end of their experience, some interns even contribute production-level code. Alongside technical training, the program provides mentorship, career development, and networking opportunities, helping students establish a strong foundation for a future in technology.
3. NASA OSTEM High School Internship Programs
Location: NASA centers nationwide
Stipend: Based on academic level and internship duration
Program Dates: Varies by internship
Application Deadlines:
Summer: May 16
Fall: February 16
Eligibility:
Must be a U.S. citizen
Must have a minimum 3.0 GPA (on a 4.0 scale)
Must be enrolled full-time as a student
Must be at least 16 years old at the time of application
The NASA OSTEM High School Internship Programs provide students with an unparalleled opportunity to engage in real-world STEM research at NASA centers across the country. As an intern, you’ll collaborate with NASA scientists and engineers on projects related to aerospace, robotics, satellite technology, and space exploration, gaining hands-on experience with some of the most advanced technologies in the world.
You’ll also gain access to state-of-the-art laboratories and work on ongoing NASA missions, applying your classroom knowledge to practical scientific and engineering challenges. This program not only fosters technical and analytical skills but also offers mentorship and career development, allowing students to connect with professionals who guide them through the research process.
4. Research in Science and Engineering (RISE) Internship – Boston University
Location: Boston University, Boston, MA
Cost: $5,700
Program Dates: June – August
Application Deadline: Currently accepting applications
Eligibility: Rising high school seniors who are U.S. citizens
The Research in Science and Engineering (RISE) Internship at Boston University is a six-week program that allows high school students to gain firsthand experience in university-level research. You’ll work approximately 40 hours per week, collaborating with renowned faculty and researchers, while learning advanced scientific techniques and methodologies in state-of-the-art labs.
The RISE program offers research opportunities across diverse STEM fields, including biology, biomedical engineering, chemistry, neuroscience, physics, psychology, computer science, and public health. Each participant is assigned a personalized research project based on their interests, ensuring a meaningful and immersive experience. By the end of the program, students not only develop technical and analytical skills but also gain exposure to the rigorous research environment of a prestigious university, setting them up for success in future STEM careers.
5. Department of Navy’s Science and Engineering Apprenticeship Program (SEAP)
Location: Multiple Naval research labs across the U.S.
Stipend:
$4,000 for first-time participants
$4,500 for returning participants
Program Dates: 8 weeks in the summer (exact dates vary by lab)
Application Deadline: November 1 (annually)
Eligibility:
Open to high school students who have completed at least 9th grade
Must be at least 16 years old by the internship start date
Graduating seniors are eligible
Some labs may have additional requirements
The Science and Engineering Apprenticeship Program (SEAP), sponsored by the Department of the Navy, provides high school students with hands-on research experience in naval laboratories across the country. You’ll work on projects focused on cybersecurity, software development, artificial intelligence, and data analysis, working alongside scientists and engineers at the forefront of military and defense technology.
This eight-week summer apprenticeship allows you to apply STEM concepts in real-world scenarios, helping you develop problem-solving skills and technical expertise. Each participant is assigned a mentor, who provides guidance and insight into engineering, physics, and computer science applications. The program is an ideal stepping stone for students considering careers in engineering, national defense, or advanced technology fields, offering practical experience in professional research environments.
6. SPARK Summer Internship Program
Location: Seattle, WA
Stipend: Some internships provide stipends
Program Dates: 8 – 10 weeks (June–August)
Application Deadline: March – April
Eligibility: High school students
The SPARK Summer Internship Program is a highly immersive STEM internship designed for high school students interested in scientific and engineering fields. This 8–10 week program allows you to engage in hands-on research and technological innovation, gaining practical experience in disciplines such as biomedical research, materials science, data engineering, weather modeling, and software engineering.
You will tackle real-world research challenges, such as developing disease detection tools, analyzing climate data for weather predictions, designing software solutions for engineering applications, and classifying DNA sequences using computational techniques. You will work alongside experienced mentors, engineers, and scientists, gaining insight into professional research environments while refining their critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
7. UChicago Medicine’s ResearcHStart
Location: University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL
Cost/Stipend: No cost; students receive a $3,000 taxable stipend
Program Dates: 8 weeks (June–August, exact dates announced each fall)
Application Deadline: Typically closes in January
Eligibility: High school juniors or seniors (must be at least 16 years old at the time of application)
The ResearcHStart Program at UChicago Medicine is an intensive summer research internship designed for high school students interested in biomedical research and cancer studies. Over eight weeks, you work alongside leading scientists in areas such as cancer immunology, bioengineering, experimental cancer therapeutics, and oncology disparities.
This program is especially beneficial for students interested in bioengineering and medical research. It provides hands-on experience in cutting-edge laboratory techniques, including diagnostics, treatment development, and computational modeling for biomedical applications. Interns also gain a deep understanding of research methodologies, scientific ethics, and the broader medical research landscape. With only 30 students selected annually, the program offers a highly personalized and immersive research experience.
8. The Lawrence Teen Internship Program
Location: The Lawrence Hall of Science, Berkeley, San Francisco, CA
Cost/Stipend: No cost; students receive $3,500 for full summer participation ($72 deducted per missed day)
Program Dates: Between May - August
Application Deadline: Typically closes in January
Eligibility: Open to high school students currently in 11th–12th grade who are available for a full-time summer internship
The Lawrence Teen Internship Program is an immersive STEM education and leadership experience designed for high school students passionate about science, teaching, and public engagement. Hosted at the Lawrence Hall of Science at UC Berkeley, this program allows students to develop their science communication and instructional skills while gaining hands-on experience in STEM education.
Throughout the internship, you’ll attend professional development workshops covering topics such as science communication, leadership strategies, and classroom management. These sessions prepare students to facilitate interactive science activities, assist with hands-on experiments, and engage younger learners in STEM exploration. Interns play an essential role in fostering curiosity and scientific literacy among children while enhancing their problem-solving, teamwork, and leadership abilities.
9. Summer Advanced AI Robotics Program – High School: Evodyne
Location: Evodyne Robotics Academy, Mountain View, CA (online options available)
Cost: $1,749
Program Dates: June – July
Application Deadline: Not specified; applications currently open
Eligibility: High school juniors (16+ years old) with proficiency in CAD modeling (Fusion 360), advanced Python programming, and/or soldering and electronics
The Summer Advanced AI Robotics Program at Evodyne Robotics Academy is a rigorous, hands-on learning experience tailored for high school students passionate about robotics, AI, and engineering. This program challenges you to design, program, and optimize advanced robotic systems, with projects including robot dog programming, AI-driven automation, and 3D printing enhancements.
You will work with CAD modeling, Python programming, web development, and electronics, requiring a solid foundation in technical skills and problem-solving. In addition to personal projects, you will also assist in robotics education programs, gaining mentorship and teaching experience.
10. Los Alamos National Laboratory High School Internship Program
Location: Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL), NM
Cost: No cost; stipend provided ($16.5/hour)
Program Dates:
Fall/Spring: Interns work up to 20 hours per week during the academic year
Summer: Expected to take place during summer months (exact dates to be announced)
Application Deadlines: Sept 30; December 31
Eligibility:
Fall/Spring cohort: Must be a high school senior at the time of application
Summer cohort: Open to rising seniors (apply as a junior, intern the summer before senior year)
Must be at least 16 years old when the internship begins
Maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale)
Must attend a high school in northern New Mexico
The Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) High School Internship Program provides students in northern New Mexico with an opportunity to gain real-world work experience and develop technical skills under the mentorship of LANL researchers. You will spend the summer working on a dedicated project, learning from experts in their field while contributing to active research initiatives.
This internship spans multiple disciplines, including business, biological sciences, and various branches of engineering. Engineering interns have worked on projects such as non-invasive fluid level sensing in pipelines using ultrasound and GLP-805 power supply interface research.
One of the best ways to secure a LANL internship is to connect with a prospective mentor and explore research areas that align with your interests and skills.
11. California Academy of Sciences – Careers in Science (CiS) Intern Program
Location: California Academy of Sciences, San Francisco, CA
Cost: No cost; stipend provided
Program Dates: Multi-year, year-round participation
Application Deadline: April 1
Eligibility:
Open to freshmen and sophomores enrolled in San Francisco Unified School District (SFUSD) schools
Must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5 (Grade of C or higher in science and math)
The Careers in Science (CiS) Intern Program at the California Academy of Sciences is a multi-year, paid internship designed for students from underrepresented backgrounds who are passionate about STEM, sustainability, and environmental action. This immersive experience provides mentorship, fieldwork, research opportunities, and college admissions guidance, helping students build scientific and professional skills while exploring careers in science and engineering.
As a CiS intern, you will engage in hands-on environmental research and fieldwork, gaining real-world experience in outdoor scientific studies. You will also take on an active role in science education by leading STEM learning activities for museum visitors, enhancing your communication and leadership skills.
Throughout the program, you will explore diverse scientific topics, including scientific programming with Python, biomimicry, astronomy, and science communication. As you advance in the program, you will have the opportunity to conduct independent research focused on environmental action.
12. Idaho National Laboratory Internship
Location: Idaho National Laboratory, Idaho Falls, ID
Cost: No cost; stipend provided
Program Dates: 6-week program starting in mid-June
Application Deadline: Not specified, but expect it to close a month or two before the internship begins
Eligibility: High school students aged 16 and older who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents (foreign nationals may apply if they attend an accredited U.S. college or university)
The Idaho National Laboratory (INL) Internship offers high school students the chance to gain hands-on experience in STEM by working alongside scientists and engineers on real-world research projects. You will get to collaborate with mentors to develop innovative solutions in fields such as clean energy, cybersecurity, critical infrastructure protection, and software engineering. During the first week, you will work with their mentors to outline research goals and secure necessary resources.
Throughout the program, mentors provide guidance while interns participate in hands-on lab work, career development seminars, lab tours, and community events. The internship culminates in a final project, which students can present as a research poster, electronic presentation, or video.
13. High Tech Bound Internship
Location: University of New Hampshire campus, Durham, NH
Stipend: Interns receive a competitive hourly wage
Program Dates: July 7 - August 7
Application Deadline: February 28
Eligibility: Rising high school seniors who are U.S. residents
The High Tech Bound internship at the University of New Hampshire is a summer program designed to immerse students in network technologies, software development, and real-world engineering challenges. Over the span of 4 to 6 weeks, you will collaborate in a cutting-edge computer lab with mentors on software and hardware projects from industry leaders such as Apple, Dell, and Cisco. In addition to hands-on lab experience, participants will tour high-tech companies to observe professionals developing next-generation products and software.
Interns will gain exposure to technology used in smart cars, internet devices, and large-scale venues like concert stadiums. While project topics vary, past interns have rebuilt a Java-based test tool (IOL INTERACT) using Python, developed CnC validation tests, and created license-tracking software.
14. Syracuse University Engineering and Computer Science Research Internship
Location: Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY
Cost: No cost; stipend provided
Program Dates: 6 weeks during the summer
Application Deadline: Expected to be two months before the program start date
Eligibility: Open to rising high school seniors in the Greater Syracuse area with good academic standing
The Syracuse University Engineering and Computer Science Research Internship is a six-week summer program designed to provide high school students with hands-on research experience in engineering and computer science. You will work alongside Syracuse University faculty, graduate students, and undergraduate researchers on university-level research projects. Through this immersive experience, participants will develop critical research skills, including laboratory safety training, data analysis, and scientific presentation.
You will gain experience in laboratory and library research techniques, learn how to maintain research documentation and develop a structured research plan. After the internship, participants will present their findings in a formal research symposium, gaining valuable experience in scientific communication.
15. High School Scientific Training and Enrichment Program (HiSTEP)
Location: National Institutes of Health (NIH) Campus, Bethesda, MD
Cost: No cost; stipend of $2,150 and public transportation benefits provided
Program Dates: July 7 - August 7
Application Deadline: January 8
Eligibility:
High school juniors who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents.
Applicants must attend a school where at least 30% of students are eligible for the Federal Free and Reduced Lunch Program.
Students should have a 3.0+ GPA (students with a GPA of 2.75 to 3.0 may also apply if they demonstrate steady academic improvement).
Must live within 40 miles of Bethesda, in DC, Maryland, or Virginia.
The High School Scientific Training and Enrichment Program (HiSTEP) at the National Institutes of Health is a five-week summer internship designed for students interested in biomedical research, healthcare, and public health. Through hands-on activities, mentorship, and professional development, this program offers a unique introduction to careers in STEM and health sciences.
As a HiSTEP participant, you will engage in hands-on lab experiments to develop fundamental scientific research skills, allowing you to apply theoretical knowledge in practical settings. Through case studies and group projects, you will explore current issues in health science, gaining a deeper understanding of real-world challenges in the field.
16. Meta Summer Academy
Location: Menlo Park, CA
Stipend: Not specified, but participants receive a competitive stipend.
Program Dates: June 16 - July 25
Application Deadline: February 14
Eligibility: High school sophomores with a minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA who are full-year residents of East Palo Alto, Belle Haven, or Redwood City
The Meta Summer Academy, formerly known as the Facebook Summer Academy, is a prestigious internship program designed to provide high school students with an in-depth experience in the tech industry. You will work closely with Meta engineers, researchers, and product designers on real-world projects, gaining valuable insights into software engineering, data science, and AI. The program emphasizes mentorship, professional development, and networking, with interns participating in workshops, seminars, and feedback sessions with their mentors.
Beyond the technical training, the internship also delves into the ethical considerations of AI and data usage, highlighting their roles in shaping tech platforms and applications. This immersive program equips students with a solid foundation in AI applications and valuable computer skills, preparing them for successful careers in the tech industry.
17. Fermilab Program for Research, Innovation, and STEM Mentorship (PRISM)
Location: Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory (Fermilab), Batavia, IL
Cost/Stipend: $500 weekly
Program Dates: June 14 - August 8
Application Deadline: March 15
Eligibility: High school sophomores, juniors, and seniors attending an Illinois high school with U.S. citizenship or permanent resident status can apply.
The Fermilab PRISM program is an intensive four-week summer experience designed to immerse students in cutting-edge scientific research and engineering. Open to high school seniors and recent graduates, this program offers a unique opportunity to work alongside Fermilab scientists, engineers, and researchers while exploring the frontiers of modern STEM fields.
Throughout the program, you’ll engage in hands-on projects, expert-led discussions, and interactive lab experiences covering topics such as particle physics, quantum science, artificial intelligence, and engineering design. Each week is dedicated to a new scientific theme so that participants gain a well-rounded perspective on the vast possibilities within STEM. In addition to technical training, students will tour state-of-the-art research facilities and collaborate on real-world scientific challenges.
18. Army Educational Outreach Program (AEOP)
Location: Various AEOP locations nationwide
Cost: No cost; stipend provided
Program Dates: Typically 6–10 weeks, May–August (specific dates depend on location)
Application Deadline: Rolling basis; specific site deadlines may apply
Eligibility: High school students who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents. A GPA of 3.0 is recommended due to the program’s competitive nature.
The Army Educational Outreach Program (AEOP) allows high school students to engage in cutting-edge research at U.S. Army laboratories across the country. Through this summer internship, you’ll work alongside leading scientists and engineers, gaining hands-on experience in STEM fields while contributing to real-world research projects.
Interns receive direct mentorship from experienced professionals, allowing them to develop technical skills, explore STEM careers, and expand their professional networks. AEOP also offers a variety of specialized research experiences depending on the host institution. For example, a program at the State University of New York (SUNY) in Buffalo introduces students to fundamental neural networks, making it an excellent option for those interested in machine learning and software engineering.
19. Berkeley Lab’s Experiences in Research (EinR) Internship
Location: Berkeley, CA
Cost: Free; stipend of $500 per week
Program Dates: July 16 - 25
Application Deadline: March 23
Eligibility: High school students in grades 10-12
The Experiences in Research (EinR) Internship at Berkeley Lab is a six-week, paid summer program that provides students with immersive hands-on experience in STEM fields. You will get to collaborate with subject matter experts and gain exposure to research projects across various disciplines, including data science, coding, administration, communication, experimental research, and data collection.
Designed to build foundational skills and confidence, the EinR internship helps students prepare for future STEM careers while offering valuable mentorship from Berkeley Lab researchers. You will have the opportunity to develop professional connections and explore cutting-edge topics in scientific research.
20. Yale ITS High School Internship Program
Location: Yale University, New Haven, CT
Cost: Free; stipend varies by project
Program Dates: 6 weeks during the summer
Application Deadline: No direct application process; students must be nominated by their high school
Eligibility: High school students from New Haven, West Haven, or Orange, CT
The Yale ITS High School Internship Program provides high school students with hands-on experience in the field of information technology (IT) through a paid summer internship at Yale University. You will work in an office environment, gaining exposure to real-world technology careers while contributing to projects that support the university’s IT infrastructure and operations.
Under the guidance of experienced managers, interns will collaborate on meaningful projects, developing essential technical and professional skills. Additionally, participants will have access to Yale’s campus facilities, professional development workshops, networking events, and other enrichment activities.
Rather than an open application process, students must be nominated by their high schools, making this a competitive opportunity for high-achieving students in the area. While this internship focuses on IT rather than traditional engineering disciplines, it can still be valuable for students interested in software engineering, systems administration, cybersecurity, and other technology-related fields.