Student Programs

If you're a student with an interest in business, finance, IT and others, look into the engaging possibilities of a career at the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, in one of a variety programs unique to the federal government workplace.  Consider your options below:

Student Educational Employment Program

This program provides either temporary employment for a specified period under the Student Temporary Employment Program (formerly the Stay-in-School Program, STEP), or career-related employment under the Student Career Experience Program (formerly referred to as the Co-Op Program, SCEP).  These positions are filled on an "as needed" basis.

Student Volunteer Program

Unpaid internships are available through this program, which allows students to gain valuable experience in their field of study.  Volunteer positions may commence at any time, pending a signed student volunteer agreement between the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, the student and the student's college or university.

Patent Experience Extern Program

Unpaid training opportunities are available from the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office for students who are in college and pursuing degrees in engineering, science or patent law.  These opportunities provide work experience related to their academic program, and allow the students to explore career options and develop their personal and professional skills.  Students will also be exposed to our work environment and learn about our mission, as well as the responsibilities of various patent practices, including practical working knowledge of patent decision-making processes.

You'll get to experience what it's like to be a Patent Examiner and work in our environment, as well as interact with experts in several disciplines, explore opportunities and develop or enhance your personal and professional skills.  

Presidential Management Fellow (PMF)

The PMI is a Federal Government program through which individuals with advanced degrees are hired into Federal Service.  After successfully completing a competitive screening process managed by the Office of Personnel Management, PMI finalists are selected for the program.  After selection, finalists are interviewed by Federal agencies such as the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office for a career in the Federal Government.

This program is open to students in their final year of graduate school or law school, who are nominated by their dean or department chair.  More information is available from the Office of Personnel Management at www.pmf.opm.gov.

Post Secondary Internship

The Department of Commerce (DOC) offers both summer and academic year paid internships through on-site work with DOC bureaus and offices, mostly in the Washington, D.C. area. Interns receive stipends as well as paid round-trip transportation expenses between their schools/homes and work locations. Basic eligibility requires enrollment as an undergraduate or graduate student at two- and four-year accredited educational institutions, as well as U.S. citizenship. Intern can gain relevant experience while exploring Federal career options.

If you would like additional information, please contact the Office of Human Resources at (800) 642-5670, email at Recruitment@uspto.gov, or write to:

U.S. Patent and Trademark Office
Mail Stop 171
P.O. Box 1450
Alexandria, VA 22313
Attn: Student Employment