NWS Wakefield Accepting Applications for the Summer 2026 College Student Volunteer Program through February 13, 2026

2026 Summer Student Volunteer Program

Application Package Due by February 16, 2026

The National Weather Service in Wakefield is accepting applications for our Summer Student Volunteer Program for 2026. Any students interested in this competitive opportunity should be enrolled at a college/university pursuing a degree in meteorology or a related science (such as climatology, atmospheric science, etc.).

The volunteer program at NWS Wakefield will allow the student to become familiar with a NWS field office and assist in day to day operations. In addition, the student will have the opportunity to conduct a mentored research project which will be presented to local NWS staff at the end of the summer.

To apply for this volunteer position you must submit the following by the deadline of February 16, 2026:

1. Submit this online application found at this link -> Volunteer Application Form 
2. Submit your Resume to the separate link provided after you submit the form above. You may also email your resume to the email supplied once the form is completed. Cover letter is optional.
3. Submit your most recent college transcript(s) (unofficial are acceptable) to the separate link provided after you submit the form above. You may also email your resume to the email supplied once the form is completed.

When attaching your resume/transcript(s), Ensure that all Sensitive Personally Identifiable Information (PII) is removed or redacted from your application materials. Sensitive PII includes but is not limited to: Social Security Numbers, Date of Birth, Driver’s License, or Passport Numbers.

After all application materials are received, applicants will be reviewed and considered for a possible interview.

Expected Duties for Summer Volunteers:

• The primary duty of the student volunteer will be to complete a research project focusing on the local region.
• Work approximately 12-24 hours each week (hours/days can be variable).
• The student volunteer is expected to be in the office for much of the opportunity.
• The volunteer will need to be available to come in during the late afternoon and evening to gain exposure to active severe weather operations.
• We have a wide variety of potential project topics from environmental analysis of tornado days to coastal flood/aviation verification.
• You will have the opportunity to present your findings to local NWS staff!
• You will become familiar with NWS functions/operations and have a chance to assist us day to day operations.

Other Possible Duties for Volunteers:

• Assist with local storm surveys and/or hydro-meteorological surveys.
• Assist in developing social media posts for weather events.
• Assist in active severe weather operations.
• Assist in case reviews for weather events.

This is an unpaid position. However, it is possible that you may be able to gain class credit for time volunteering. Please check with your local college/university for those details.

If you have any questions, please contact:

Science and Operations Officer - Mike Dutter (email: michael.dutter@noaa.gov  Phone: 757-899-4200 x224)