Summer 2026 Research Intern

Responsibilities

Peraton is seeking a Summer 2026 Research Intern in support of our Federal Civilian Sector Chief Technologist Office , based in our Herndon, VA or Reston, VA offices or remote for qualified candidates .

Join our Federal Civilian Sector Chief Technologist Office and support research projects spanning emerging technology areas such as artificial intelligence, cloud computing, cybersecurity, and their applications across customer base. You’ll work alongside our senior technologists in a collaborative, supportive environment, growing your skills and your career while gaining exposure to a variety of projects and problem domains. You’ll research emerging technologies and market trends, synthesize findings from technical literature and industry sources, and contribute to white papers, briefings, and internal research products that inform Peraton’s technology strategy. You’ll also have opportunities to present your work to technical and non-technical audiences across the organization.

We ask that each intern commit to working a minimum of 35-40 hours per week. This program is geared toward technical college students, actively enrolled at a four-year university, who will be rising into their junior or senior years. However, strong underclassmen may be considered if they have declared their major and have completed qualified coursework.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

• HS Diploma.
• U.S. Citizenship.
• Actively enrolled at a four-year university, with a declared major in a STEM, or related field.
• Strong research skills, including the ability to gather information from credible sources, evaluate it critically, and synthesize findings.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Strong written and oral communication skills, including the ability to clearly summarize technical topics in writing.
• Foundational proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Foundational proficiency in the use of AI tools (Claude Code, Codex, Gemini, CoPilot) or locally hosted models.
• Intellectual curiosity and a demonstrated interest in emerging technology trends.
• Ability to quickly learn new concepts and tools.
• Self-motivated, detail-oriented, and a responsible team player.

Desired Qualifications:

• 3.0 and above GPA.
• Coursework or personal interest in computer science, data science, engineering, or a related technical field.
• Familiarity with emerging technology areas such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, cloud computing, or cybersecurity.
• Exposure to data analysis using Excel or other tools.
• Experience producing research papers, briefings, white papers, or other long-form written deliverables.
• Comfort presenting findings to a group and translating technical concepts for non-technical audiences.
• Ability to self-manage day-to-day tasks and communicate collaboratively with leadership and teammates.

Peraton Overview

Peraton is a next-generation national security company that drives missions of consequence spanning the globe and extending to the farthest reaches of the galaxy. As the world’s leading mission capability integrator and transformative enterprise IT provider, we deliver trusted, highly differentiated solutions and technologies to protect our nation and allies. Peraton operates at the critical nexus between traditional and nontraditional threats across all domains: land, sea, space, air, and cyberspace. The company serves as a valued partner to essential government agencies and supports every branch of the U.S. armed forces. Each day, our employees do the can’t be done by solving the most daunting challenges facing our customers. Visit peraton.com to learn how we’re keeping people around the world safe and secure.

Target Salary Range

The rate / range per hour below represents the typical salary range for this position. Salary is determined by various factors, including but not limited to, the scope and responsibilities of the position, the individual’s experience, education, knowledge, skills, and competencies, as well as geographic location and business and contract considerations. Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay.

SCA / Union / Intern Rate or Range

$25+

EEO

EEO: Equal opportunity employer, including disability and protected veterans, or other characteristics protected by law.