The student selected will work with professionals and scientists performing non-clerical duties to gain experience in sciences and/or engineering. Those selected will work in one or more of the following series (based on academic program):

GS-1301 Physical Scientist
GS-1320 Chemist

- This is a student internship appointment expected to last for more than one year;
- To be appointed you must be enrolled or accepted for enrollment on at least a half-time basis at a qualifying academic institution at the time of appointment, maintain such enrollment throughout the duration of the appointment;
- Upon completion of requirements for graduation and successful completion of the internship, the appointee may become eligible for non-competitive conversion to a term or permanent position in the competitive service provided successful completion of a certified Physical Scientist, or Chemist.
- These student positions have promotion potential to GS-04;
- The full performance level of any of these positions once converted under a Career Ladder position is GS-11;
- Appointees must sign a DOL Pathways Intern Program Participant Agreement;
- The entire duration of the internship is a trial period;
- Appointees must be a U.S. citizen in order to be eligible for conversion to a permanent position;
- This position is inside the bargaining unit.

Major duties include:

* The incumbent familiarizes himself/herself with the program, policies, operating procedures, laws and regulations administered by the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA). Works frequently as an observer and assignments require minimum application of a specialist’s knowledge, skills, and abilities. Assignments consist of specific, limited tasks and are carefully selected and assigned with the intention of familiarizing the incumbent with the program administered by the Agency. Issues are clear cut and situations are similar to those previously encountered.

* Assists engineers in preparing for, and reporting on, inspections, studies, surveys, and investigations of mine sites.

* Assists laboratory personnel in operating, testing, calibrating, and maintaining sampling equipment and instruments used for inspections.

* Assists engineers in the promotion of public safety events and campaigns such as “Stay Out-Stay Alive”, and safety competitions.

* Assists laboratory personnel in the collection and evaluation of liquid, gas, and particulate samples.

* Performs a variety of standardized and repetitive tests to determine the chemical, physical, mechanical, and/or electrical properties of materials.

* Participates in special projects and studies as a senior aid.