Legal Internship null

About the U.S. Department of the Interior

The U.S. Department of the Interior oversees the management and conservation of federal land and natural resources, encompassing responsibilities from maintaining national parks to upholding Native American treaties. Established in 1849, it plays a crucial role in environmental stewardship and cultural preservation across the nation.

Your role

Duties:

• The Office of the Solicitor is responsible for the legal work of the U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI), with nearly 200 practicing attorneys in the headquarters office and more than 300 attorneys nationwide. DOI's mission makes it the Nation's premier conservation agency.
• The work that they do through their offices and bureaus (including the National Park Service, Fish and Wildlife Service, Bureau of Land Management, Bureau of Indian Affairs, U.S. Geological Survey, Bureau of Reclamation, Office of Surface Mining, and Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, Regulation and Enforcement) affects the lives of millions of people; from the family taking a vacation in a national park to a child studying in an Indian school.
• With this diverse workload and the demand of extensive litigation and program counseling, the Office is continually looking for talented, dedicated law students with an interest in gaining practical experience advising agencies on the legal aspects of their mission as well as participating in complex civil litigation before administrative tribunals or assisting the Justice Department in litigating matters before federal courts.
• Their legal interns/externs are called upon to conduct legal research on a variety of environmental and administrative law issues, as well as issues involving Indian law. The Office resolves appeals under the Freedom of Information Act and is also home to the Department's Ethics Office. Students typically draft legal memoranda, briefs and motions, and assist with discovery in active federal cases.
• Students may participate in conference calls and strategy sessions with other agency counsel, including Justice Department lawyers and agency officials. There may be additional opportunities to attend hearings and meetings in the Washington, D.C. area.
• Because of their unique responsibilities to support the Department's programs to benefit American Indians and Alaska Natives, Native American candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.

Training & development

The training & development of Interns at the US Department of the Interior is a dynamic and comprehensive program designed to cultivate the skills and expertise of emerging talents. Interns engage in hands-on experiences, mentorship programs, and specialized workshops, fostering a deep understanding of the department's mission and operations. This immersive approach empowers interns to contribute meaningfully to the Department's diverse initiatives while preparing them for successful careers in public service.

Benefits

If you join as a full-time employee, you will get the following benefits:

• Alternate Work Schedule (AWS)
• Child Care Options
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• EAP Additional Resources and Tips
• Fact Sheet Part-Time Employment
• Physical Fitness Program
• Taxable Reimbursement Request-Attachment 3
• Remote Work
• Student Loan Repayment
• Telework
• Whistleblower Protection
• Federal Health Programs (FEHB)
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
• Planning for Retirement

Career progression

Beginning as an intern at the US Department of the Interior opens doors to a dynamic career progression. From gaining hands-on experience in resource management to contributing to policy development, interns evolve into valuable team members. With mentorship and diverse opportunities, they transition seamlessly into roles that shape the nation's environmental stewardship and public lands management.

Work-life balance

The US Department of the Interior prioritizes a harmonious work-life balance, fostering an environment where employees can thrive both professionally and personally. With flexible schedules and a commitment to employee well-being, the department recognizes the importance of maintaining an equilibrium between fulfilling responsibilities and enjoying personal pursuits. Embracing a culture that values work-life balance enhances job satisfaction and contributes to a motivated and engaged workforce.

Culture & vibe

At the US Department of the Interior, collaboration flows like the nation's diverse landscapes, fostering a dynamic work culture where employees unite with a shared passion for preserving America's natural treasures. The office buzzes with innovation, mirroring the department's commitment to sustainable practices and responsible stewardship. Here, every individual is a vital thread in the rich tapestry of conservation, weaving together a culture of purpose, camaraderie, and environmental advocacy.

About you

Conditions of employment:

• Must be enrolled at least part-time at an accredited academic institution.
• Must maintain status as a current student in good standing during the internship.
• If you are a male applicant born after December 31, 1959, certify that you have registered with the Selective Service System or are exempt from having to do so.
• Must be able to successfully pass a background investigation.
• There are opportunities for externships in Headquarters, Washington, DC, Regional, and Field Offices, as determined by each office on the SOL Externship website.
• U.S. Citizen or U.S. National.

Qualifications:

• Applicants must be students.
• The following students are eligible: Undergraduate students who are enrolled at least half-time; public policy graduate students; first-year (second semester), second- and third-year law students; and law school graduates who are enrolled in graduate law programs (e.g., L.L.M. programs) at least half-time.
• All students must be in good academic standing and will be required to provide official documentation from their school. First-year, first-semester law students may apply after December 1 for internships the following summer.

Education:

• Must be enrolled at least part-time in a juris doctorate or LLM program at an American Bar Association accredited law school.
• Must maintain status as a current student in good standings during your externship.

Sources

The following sources were used in researching this page:

• careers.doi.gov/
• usgs.gov/human-capital/helpful-links benefits
• intern.usajobs.gov/job
• youtube.com/user/USInterior