Securing an Internship or Job at NASA: A Comprehensive Guide

Every year, countless students and professionals aspire to land a position at the esteemed National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). However, the road to internships or jobs at NASA can be challenging, especially for those who are not U.S. citizens or face other barriers. Here, we outline the key steps needed to increase your chances of success.

Who Can Apply?

The first and most important criterion for applying to NASA is:

Are You a U.S. Citizen?

If you are not a U.S. citizen, your path to an internship or job at NASA is significantly more challenging. While there are exceptions, these are rare and often involve:

You having a professor who knows NASA staff and is willing to contact those staff members. Attending a U.S. university with an F-1 student visa that allows for working internships during semester breaks.

These opportunities are extremely limited and highly competitive, so it is advisable to focus on becoming proficient in the steps outlined below if you are not a U.S. citizen.

Minimum GPA Requirement

As a U.S. citizen, you must meet the minimum GPA requirement, which is a 3.0 GPA. This is a critical step, as NASA screens all applicants based on this criterion. If you do not meet this requirement, it will be virtually impossible to secure a position.

Navigating the Application Process

Once you have verified your eligibility, you can begin the application process. Here are the key steps:

1. Identify Your Qualifications

Like any other job application, you need to ensure you meet the qualifications for the job. NASA jobs are diverse and range from scientific research positions to more entry-level roles, such as the story of Vietnamese seamstresses who hand-make products for JPL. It is crucial to carefully review the job descriptions to find one that fits your background and skills.

2. Apply Using Official Channels

NASA primarily uses USAJOBS to post job openings. Visit USAJOBS to find current job opportunities.

3. Prepare a Strong Application

CV/Resume: Tailor your CV to highlight relevant skills and experiences. Letter of Recommendation: If you are applying for an internship, securing a recommendation from a professor or mentor can significantly improve your chances. Cover Letter: Write a compelling cover letter that explains your interest in the position and how your skills and experiences align with NASA's goals.

Available Job Opportunities and Departments

NASA has numerous job openings across various departments. Here is a breakdown of some of the roles available:

1. JPL/Caltech in Pasadena

Jobs on the JPL/Caltech campus in Pasadena, CA, include both scientific and administrative roles. For instance, there have been reports of seamstresses who hand-make products for JPL, indicating the variety of roles available.

2. Other NASA Locations

NASA operates numerous centers across the United States, including but not limited to:

MSC in Houston, Texas GSFC in Greenbelt, Maryland DFRC in Edwards, California LaRC in Hampton, Virginia

Each location offers a wide range of roles, from engineering and science to administrative support.

Conclusion

Securing an internship or job at NASA is a challenging but achievable goal if you meet the basic requirements and follow the outlined steps. Remember, a strong academic record and relevant experience or skills are crucial. For non-U.S. citizens, additional hurdles exist, but there are opportunities through U.S. universities for F-1 students.

So, if you dream of working for NASA, start by reviewing the job listings, ensuring you meet the eligibility requirements, and preparing a strong application. Good luck!