Summer Internship Program
Mission Conversion Services Alliance (MCSA)
Make an Impact Where It Matters
Mission Conversion Services Alliance (MCSA) serves as the U.S. Department of Energy’s contractor supporting the Operations and Site Mission Support (OSMS) and depleted uranium hexafluoride (DUF6) conversion facilities at the Portsmouth Gaseous Diffusion Plant in Piketon, Ohio and the Paducah Gaseous Diffusion Plant in Paducah, Kentucky. MCSA also operates from its corporate offices in Lexington, Kentucky.
Our work supports critical national priorities, including nuclear facility operations, environmental stewardship, and long-term site mission support.
The MCSA Summer Internship Program offers students the opportunity to contribute to this mission while gaining hands-on experience alongside professionals working in highly specialized, real-world environments.
Program Overview
This paid, 12-week summer program is designed to provide meaningful, project-based experience aligned with your field of study.
Interns are placed at either the Portsmouth or Paducah site, or at our Lexington corporate office, where they work directly with experienced professionals across a range of disciplines.
Interns will:
- Apply academic knowledge to real operational and business challenges.
- Participate in projects that support DOE site operations and mission delivery.
- Gain exposure to a complex, highly regulated work environment.
- Develop practical skills that translate directly into future career opportunities.
Internship Areas
Opportunities are available in the following areas:
Engineering
Paducah, KY
As an engineering intern, you will play a hands-on role in commissioning the plant’s new EVH system—its largest upgrade since 2008. You’ll be directly involved in testing, verification, and validation to ensure the system is fully operational before turnover to Operations.
You will also support the startup of a new Oxide Sampling Lab, helping analyze and optimize process parameters to produce consistent, high-quality oxide powder. This work represents a shift toward more data-driven, chemical-process-focused operations.
This is a unique opportunity to gain real-world engineering experience on critical systems that are reshaping how the plant operates.
Portsmouth, OH
As an engineering intern at Portsmouth, you will gain hands-on experience with oxide sampling and nuclear material processing, learning how to design new processes and improve existing systems.
Interns will contribute to real-world projects involving the design, construction, and procurement of new facilities and equipment. With the site transitioning toward a new mission, major redevelopment is underway—including new building construction and multimillion-dollar projects supporting DOE initiatives.
This is a unique opportunity to be part of a transforming site and gain practical engineering experience on impactful, large-scale projects.
Additional Responsibilities
Will vary by assignment but may include:
- Supporting project planning, tracking, and execution activities.
- Assisting with contracts, procurement, or compliance documentation.
- Contributing to safety, environmental, or quality initiatives.
- Analyzing data and preparing reports or presentations.
- Participating in process improvement efforts.
- Observing and supporting operational or field activities.
What We’re Looking For
Successful candidates bring:
- Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.
- Clear written and verbal communication skills.
- Solid research and analytical capabilities.
- Attention to detail and organizational discipline.
- Initiative, curiosity, and a willingness to learn in a structured environment.
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Application Process
Candidates must apply through the MCSA careers page and submit:
- Resume (including current cumulative GPA).
- One-page cover letter outlining career goals and interest in MCSA.
- Current official or unofficial transcript.
Applications that do not align with the selected internship area or are missing required documentation will not be considered.
Why MCSA
This program goes beyond traditional internships. Interns contribute to real work supporting one of the Department of Energy’s most important operational and environmental missions.
You will leave the program with:
- Practical experience in a high-impact industry.
- Exposure to large-scale federal operations.
- A clearer understanding of career paths within your field.
- Professional connections that can support your long-term career growth.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Mission Conversion Services Alliance is an equal opportunity employer committed to building a diverse workforce. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, or veteran status in accordance with applicable law.
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