About the opportunity
Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) is a premier U.S. Department of Energy national laboratory managed by Battelle. Located in Richland, Washington, PNNL is a hub for scientific discovery, energy resiliency, and national security research. The laboratory offers a wide range of opportunities for students and professionals, including internships for high school, undergraduate, and graduate students, as well as post-doctoral fellowships and full-time careers in STEM and business. PNNL is committed to fostering an inclusive and innovative environment, providing employees and interns with access to world-class facilities, professional development, and a supportive community through the Life@PNNL initiative. Recognized for its excellence in recruiting emerging talent, PNNL provides a platform for researchers to address some of the world’s most pressing science and technology challenges.
Salary and benefits
- Competitive compensation and "Rockstar Rewards" for employees.
- Generous benefits package for full-time and post-doctoral staff.
- Paid internship opportunities in STEM and business fields.
- Professional development and continuous learning opportunities.
- Access to state-of-the-art research facilities and equipment.
- Work-life balance programs and an inclusive research culture.
- Involvement in professional networks, social clubs, and community service projects.
- STEM workforce development and outreach programs.
Who can apply?
- High school students (for specific internship programs).
- Undergraduate students in STEM or business fields.
- Graduate students in STEM or business fields.
- Post-doctoral candidates and research associates.
- University faculty (for research partnerships).
- K-12 educators and students (for STEM outreach programs).
When to apply
- Internships: Available for completion during the summer or the academic year.
- Full-time and Post-doctoral positions: Applications are accepted on a rolling basis as openings occur.
How to apply
- Visit the PNNL Careers portal to search for open positions.
- Filter opportunities by category, such as National Security, Sustainable Energy, or Finance.
- Join the PNNL Talent Community to receive updates on new opportunities.
- Submit an application through the online portal.
- Monitor application status via the candidate dashboard.
Additional information
- PNNL is one of 17 U.S. Department of Energy national laboratories.
- The laboratory is managed and operated by Battelle.
- PNNL has received the Handshake Early Talent Award for six consecutive years (as of 2025).
- Research areas include chemistry, data analytics, Earth science, and grid modernization.
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Students and professionals in STEM or business fields.
- Individuals interested in national security, energy, or data analytics research.
What should you think carefully about?
- Opportunities are available on a rolling basis, requiring proactive monitoring.
- Applicants should verify specific location requirements for their chosen role.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
PNNL offers a versatile platform for career growth, whether you are a student seeking an internship or a researcher looking for a long-term role. The focus on 'Rockstar Rewards' and professional development makes this an excellent environment for those who want to solve global challenges while building a robust professional network.
Our take
STEM and business professionals seeking to work at a top-tier national laboratory should apply; those looking for a specific, non-STEM career path may find fewer options.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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