SAA Internship Program

2026 Summer Internship Program

We are excited to announce the 2026 U.S. Senate Sergeant at Arms (SAA) Summer Internship Program, a ten-week paid opportunity for college and technical/trade school students to gain firsthand experience with the operations of the United States Senate and careers that support the Legislative Branch.

The SAA is a nonpartisan office that plays a vital role in ensuring the Senate can meet its constitutional duties, including providing security, technology and essential support services for Senators and Senate offices.

SAA Internship Program

Applications will be accepted December 31, 2025 through January 30, 2026.
Apply Here

The SAA Summer Internship Program blends meaningful, hands-on work with structured educational programming. Selected interns will:

- Gain rare insight into Senate operations.
- Contribute to projects that substantively support the Senate community.
- Develop professional skills in a historic and fast-paced institution.
- Gain practical experience with professional systems and equipment.

Selected interns will work in Washington, D.C. for ten weeks between Monday, May 29, and Friday, August 28. 

FAQs:

The Sergeant at Arms and Doorkeeper serves as the United States Senate’s chief law enforcement and protocol officer as well as the executive officer responsible for a host of support services at the Senate. The office of the SAA is responsible for all Senate computers, software, equipment and technology support; oversees broadcasting of Senate floor proceedings and committee hearings; provides audio video recording and photographic services; and offers printing and graphics and telecommunications services. The SAA also assists all Senate offices with their mailing, staffing, purchasing, and financial needs. Learn more about the SAA here.
  • Provide SAA offices with additional assistance during the busy summer months.
  • Introduce college and technical/trade school students to the SAA and the U.S. Senate through work assignments and educational programs.
  • Provide a potential pipeline of qualified candidates for future employment within SAA offices, should an intern meet the criteria and qualifications for such employment after they graduate.
Eligible students must: 
  • have completed at least one year of college or technical/trade school and be enrolled for the coming fall semester.
  • be available to start the internship between May 29 and June 26.
  • be able to work ten full-time (40-hour) work weeks at the U.S. Senate in Washington, D.C. Note: some internship positions may allow for partial remote work, but fully remote work is not available under the SAA Summer Internship Program.
  • pass a criminal background investigation.
  • demonstrate strong interpersonal and communication skills.
During the application process, summer intern candidates must notify HR of any family members who currently work for the SAA. All interns must independently meet the SAA’s qualification standards and be selected based upon their individual merits.
 
During the interview process, candidates are required to notify the SAA of any pre-planned leave that is scheduled during the internship period. All planned absences must be communicated before an offer letter is issued.
 
Individuals who have already participated in the SAA Internship Program are not eligible to participate in the program again, except with the specific written approval of SAA Human Resources. Candidates must disclose whether they have previously held an internship with the SAA.
Yes, for the 2026 Summer Internship Program, interns are paid twice per month at a rate of $18.00 per hour. Interns are also eligible for a public transit reimbursement for travel to and from the worksite.
No.