Pathways Informational Video Playlist
Interested in applying to NASA Pathways? These videos will help you do your research, prepare your application, and apply to a vacancy during the open application window! Visit nasa.gov/career/pathways to learn more!
What are the three Pathways Programs?
The three programs under the Pathways umbrella are the Internship Program, the Recent Graduates Program, and the Presidential Management Fellows, or PMF, Program.
What is the work experience like?
Consistently ranked as the number one place to work in the federal government for several years, working at NASA is a blast! As a pathways participant, you’ll have: 1) Meaningful work assignments, 2) Autonomy and trust, 3) Growth and development opportunities, 4) Impactful outcomes from your work contributions, and 5) Connections to the people around you.
What type of student is NASA looking for?
Our commonalities unite us as a team, and our differences strengthen our capabilities as an organization. For our Pathways Intern positions, we’re looking for students who are not only captivated with the NASA Vision & Mission, but who are also well-rounded with diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and life experiences. If you enjoy working on teams and have a willingness to learn new things, we’re looking for you!
What employee benefits will I get as a Pathways participant?
As a Pathways Intern, you’ll get paid every two weeks according to an hourly rate. Hourly rates are based on your GS level. Starting GS levels are determined by the level of education you’ve completed when you apply.
What are the minimum qualifications for a Pathways Internship?
For all of our Pathways Internship positions, you must meet all of the following requirements:
1. Be a U.S. citizen or national
2. Be at least 16 years of age at the time of appointment
3. Be a degree or certificate seeking student who is currently enrolled or accepted for enrollment in an accredited educational institution on at least a half time basis as defined by the institution
4. Have a cumulative GPA of at least 2.9 on a 4.0 scale (or equivalent)
5. Be able to work a minimum of 640 hours before graduation
How could I transition from Pathways Intern to full-time employee after I graduate?
A major benefit for Pathways Interns is that you’re eligible to convert to full-time employment after graduation without having to reapply. When you get close to your graduation date, NASA will consider you for various full-time employment opportunities that may be available.
How do you fit in at NASA?
We host approximately 650 Pathways Interns at NASA each year. Our Pathways Interns come from across the country with a wide variety of educational and personal backgrounds.
Tips to Follow When Submitting Your Application!
We want you to be successful in navigating the hiring process for our Pathways Intern positions. Based on things we’ve typically seen with applicants, here are the top tips you should note when submitting your Pathways Intern application.
How is a Pathways Internship experience different from one NASA Center to another?
There are ten NASA Centers located all across the Nation. Each NASA Center is unique based on its physical location and in the work it performs. To get more information about each NASA Center, check out www.nasa.gov/about/sites/. Each NASA Center may have additional Pathways Intern Program requirements, such as work schedules, starting dates for the internship, and more.
When do hiring opportunities open for Pathways Internships at NASA?
All of our job postings can be found on USAJobs.gov. Application windows for the Pathways Intern Program open in the spring and fall each year.
I see several Pathways vacancies on USAJobs. How do I know which vacancy to apply to?
You’ll want to apply to the vacancy that aligns with BOTH your academic major and preferred geographic location(s).
How should I write my resume when applying to a Pathways Internship?
NASA wants to get to know you and see your story – so be clear and concise, but elaborate! Your resume is your best opportunity to demonstrate what sets you apart from other applicants. Write your USAJobs resume in a narrative format, where you highlight your accomplishments by using the CAR method (Challenge/Action/Result).
What does the hiring process look like for Pathways Internships?
After you submit your application, a Staffing Specialist evaluates your application for the position based on the eligibility requirements listed in the vacancy announcement. Your eligibility will be evaluated based on your application materials (e.g., resume, supporting documents), the responses you provide on the application questionnaire, and the result of the online assessments required for this position.
How should I prepare to take the assessment?
After you submit your application on USAJobs.gov, you may be asked (via email) to complete an online assessment. Visit nasa.gov/career/pathways to learn more!
