Summary

The U.S. Trade and Development Agency is the U.S. government’s first mover on critical infrastructure development in emerging markets, advancing the shared strategic priorities of the United States and our overseas partners while creating opportunities to deploy trusted U.S. solutions. USTDA funds the upfront technical work that accelerates the development of infrastructure projects, helping them attract the financing they need for implementation and procurement of U.S. goods and services. USTDA also hosts activities that promote infrastructure partnerships with the United States.

Requirements

All internships are either in-person or virtual and available to students who are U.S. citizens and currently enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate degree program. Strong writing and analytical skills coupled with excellent work and academic credentials are essential. A demonstrated interest in international development and business is preferred. All internships are unpaid, however USTDA will work with schools to help interns secure course credits.

For summer/fall internships, USTDA seeks a commitment of 32 hours per week during the summer and at least 16 hours per week during the fall over a 26-week period. Summer/fall internships start June 1, 2026, and end December 4, 2026. USTDA is willing to consider earlier start dates and later end dates.

Responsibilities

• Assist in the development of Agency training programs, working with outside vendors to assist in assessing training course options, and scheduling of training for staff.
• Assist in the implementation of USTDA’s administration activities to include a variety of clerical support such as managing travel, maintenance of project management tools, and assisting with the organizing of organizational charts and other personnel lists. 
• Assist in managing the Office of Administration’s SharePoint site.
• Support other duties as required by the Agency’s Administrative team.

Education

Ideal candidates will have an educational background in public administration, human resources, or training. Proficiency in MS Office and office automation is preferred.

Additional Information

U.S. citizenship is required, and interns will need to successfully complete a background screening prior to the start of the internship.

Required Documents

Applications must include a cover letter, resume, school transcript(s) and writing sample.  Candidates must specify the Agency team(s) for which they would like to be considered.  Candidates will be evaluated on their relevant skills and experience, demonstrated interest in international business and/or foreign assistance and the quality of their application materials. 

Benefits

• Career development roundtables with USTDA leadership
• Intern lunch with USTDA’s Director
• Frequent social and networking events
• Capitol Hill and think tank events on international trade and development
• Academic course credits
• Commuter Benefits Program

How to Apply

Applications for the upcoming spring/summer are accepted through Friday, March 20, 2026, to the attention of Silvia Umana, Intern Coordinator, via email, at internships@ustda.gov. USTDA may accept internship applications after this date, subject to the availability of unfilled internship slots.

To learn more about USTDA, please visit us at www.ustda.gov.