About the role#
The Morale, Well-being, and Recreation (MWR) Internship Program provides hands-on experience in recreation, business operations, and community support within the U.S. Coast Guard. This program is designed to give students exposure to the daily operations that support military members and their families.
What you'll do#
- Assist with planning and delivering community recreation and special events.
- Support fitness and wellness programming and outreach.
- Work with youth and child development programs.
- Gain exposure to food and beverage, lodging, and recreational business operations.
- Contribute to social media and marketing efforts.
- Provide quality customer service to military members and their families.
- Participate in staff meetings, trainings, and cross-functional team projects.
- Complete a final project or summary presentation of your experience.
What you'll need#
- Currently enrolled at least half-time in an accredited college or university.
- Actively pursuing a degree in Recreation, Hospitality, Fitness, Sports Management, Child and Youth Development, Marketing, Business Administration, or a related field.
- Good academic standing.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- Professionalism, initiative, and enthusiasm for a service-focused environment.
- U.S. Citizenship or legal residency status eligible to work in the United States.
- Ability to pass a background check and meet any physical requirements relevant to the location.
- Applications must be submitted at least 60 days prior to your desired start date.
Location & details#
- Locations: Kodiak, AK; New London, CT; Borinquen Air Station, PR; Portsmouth, VA; Yorktown, VA.
- Terms: Fall 2026, Winter 2027, Spring 2027, Summer 2027, Fall 2027.
- Modality: On-site.
- Employment: Full-time.
- Compensation: Paid positions available, with some unpaid academic credit options. Housing and some meals are provided at select locations.
About U.S. Coast Guard
The U.S. Coast Guard is a branch of the United States Armed Forces focused on maritime security and environmental protection. Founded in 1790, the organization operates as a government agency with headquarters in Washington, DC. It manages search and rescue operations and law enforcement duties across the country. The agency maintains a workforce of over 32,000 employees across nearly 100 locations.
How to get in at U.S. Coast Guard
Securing an internship at the U.S. Coast Guard requires timing because federal hiring cycles move quickly. Intern Insider sends an instant alert the moment a role matching your target is published anywhere, so you apply among the first. Early applicants get seen before the pile grows, which is a significant advantage in a competitive federal process. You can use this lead time to prepare your application materials thoroughly. Reaching the right person is often the difference between a stalled application and a conversation. Intern Insider surfaces the recruiters behind the company roles so you can reach out directly to ask about the role or a referral. Direct outreach materially improves response rates, helping you stand out from the thousands of other applicants.
