CFTC Internship Opportunity Student Volunteer (Hiring 2025)

Are you a dedicated student eager to gain valuable experience, sharpen your skills, and explore a promising career path? The Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) is inviting students and recent graduates to apply for their unpaid Internship Program. This exciting opportunity allows aspiring professionals to work side-by-side with seasoned leaders in the field while building expertise and gaining exposure to federal government operations.

Whether you’re just starting your career or looking for practical experience to complement your education, this internship could be the perfect stepping stone for your future.

Program Overview:

The CFTC Internship offers opportunities for law students currently enrolled as J.D. or LL.M candidates in ABA-accredited law schools. Participants can gain experience by working with various divisions and offices that cover an array of legal and specialized tasks.

Here is what you can expect from some of the key divisions:

Chairman/Commissioner’s Office

The Chairman and five Commissioners oversee the CFTC’s market regulatory operations. Interns in this office contribute by:

• Researching and analyzing market issues.
• Drafting detailed memos and public statements.
• Attending meetings with market participants.
• Preparing briefings for senior officials.

Division of Enforcement (DOE)

The DOE investigates and prosecutes violations of the Commodity Exchange Act (CEA). Interns gain vital legal experience by:

• Researching and writing legal memos.
• Reviewing evidence for ongoing investigations.
• Assisting attorneys with depositions, testimonies, and discovery work.

Division of Market Oversight (DMO)

Interns in the DMO help ensure markets remain transparent, fair, and secure by:

• Assessing compliance programs for derivative platforms.
• Reviewing annual compliance reports.
• Analyzing self-regulatory rules of designated contract markets (DCMs) and swap execution facilities (SEFs).

Market Participants Division (MPD)

Interns working here focus on oversight of market intermediaries. Duties can include:

• Conducting technical analysis of complex industry regulations.
• Preparing legal reports and analytical fact summaries.
• Performing background research on swap dealers and intermediaries.

Office of International Affairs (OIA)

This division is essential for connecting the CFTC with international regulatory counterparts. Interns may assist by:

• Researching global market and legislative developments.
• Drafting briefing materials for international meetings.
• Attending external meetings and providing insight into global standards.

Who Can Apply?

This opportunity is open to U.S. Citizens who are currently enrolled and in good academic standing at an accredited institution. Here’s what you’ll need:

Eligibility Requirements

• Be an actively enrolled, at least part-time, J.D. or LL.M student at an ABA-accredited law school.
• Have completed at least one year of law school by the internship’s start date.
• Maintain good academic standing and submit law school transcripts to verify eligibility.
• Be able to demonstrate a keen interest in legal work related to the CFTC’s mission.

This program is ideal for students eager to enhance their legal, analytical, and research skills in a real-world environment.

What Makes This Program Special?

Although unpaid, the CFTC Internship is invaluable in terms of the experience and knowledge it provides. Interns gain the chance to:

• Work on substantive legal projects that demonstrate their analytical, research, and writing abilities.
• Network and collaborate with industry professionals and senior staff.
• Gain exposure to federal government processes and regulatory roles.
• Develop technical expertise that will boost their resumes for future job applications.

For students looking to make a difference in key regulatory spaces or explore public sector career paths, this program is a promising opportunity!

Applying for the Internship

To secure an internship with the CFTC, follow these simple steps:

1. Review and Prepare Your Materials

   • Update your resume to highlight relevant experience, coursework, and achievements.
   • Collect your law school transcripts or equivalent documentation reflecting your enrollment and academic standing.

2. Submit Through USAJOBS

   • Applications are accepted ONLY via the USAJOBS portal. Be sure to submit all required documents, including your transcript. Applications submitted via email will not be considered.

3. Double-Check for Completion

   • Ensure your online application is complete and all necessary information is included. Missing items may result in disqualification from consideration.

4. Stay Connected

   • Keep an eye on your inbox for updates on your application status. Be proactive in addressing additional requests if needed.

Unlock Your Potential with the CFTC

At the Commodity Futures Trading Commission, internships aren’t just about work—they’re about growth. CFTC’s commitment to empowering students through knowledge and experience provides the perfect opportunity to explore diverse career paths. Whether your aspirations involve public service or private practice, this program is a solid foundation for developing essential skills that will shape your career.

Are you ready to step up? Submit your application today and begin your exciting journey into the world of legal expertise, market regulatory policy, and the federal workforce!

Submit CFTC Internship Application