| Hiring Organization: | Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services |
| Industry: | Government Administration |
| Employment Type: | Federal government Internships |
| Date Posted: | 2025-01-18 |
| Closing Date: | 2025-08-20 |
| Job Location: | USA |
Are you a student or recent graduate looking for a way to kickstart your career, gain hands-on experience, and explore unique opportunities in the federal government? The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has created multiple internship programs tailored to equip enthusiastic individuals with the tools they need to succeed in public service or federal careers. Whether you’re a current student, a recent graduate, or interested in leadership development, CMS offers career paths for all.
If you’re ready to take the next step, discover the diverse internships, jobs, and hiring opportunities available at CMS for 2025.
Program Overview:
CMS offers a variety of internship tracks to fit your goals and academic status. Below are the key programs for students and recent graduates in 2025:
1. Recent Graduates Program
The Recent Graduates Program is designed for individuals who’ve completed their degrees within the past two years. This one-year developmental program allows participants to work on critical federal government projects while gaining career skills. Successful graduates may even transition into permanent CMS roles.
Featured Positions
- Contract Specialist (Available 11/25/2024 – 12/02/2024): This trainee role lets you learn the art of reviewing federal contracts, enhancing analytical skills, and working on exciting special projects.
- Health Insurance Specialist (Available 11/27/2024 – 12/03/2024): Contribute to health insurance policy development, research, and analysis.
Eligibility Requirements
- U.S. Citizen or National
- Recent graduate within the past two years from an accredited university (degree types include associate, bachelor’s, master’s, or professional).
- Minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
- Background clearance and suitability check.
- Veterans may apply within six years of their degree if delayed due to military service.
Benefits
While this program is paid according to federal pay standards, the main perks include mentoring, developmental training, and an inside track to a long-term federal career.
2. Paid Internships Program
Are you currently enrolled in school and curious about federal careers? CMS offers paid internships designed to provide practical experience in actuarial sciences, administrative roles, and healthcare programs. This program sharpens your skills while supporting you in advancing your education.
Featured Internship Opportunities
- Student Trainee (Actuarial Science) (Available 10/03/2024 – 10/09/2024): Apply mathematical methods to create cost estimates, analyze health expenditures, and evaluate financial trends.
What to Expect
- 12-week program that immerses you in CMS operations.
- Learn about public healthcare initiatives at federal, state, and local levels.
- Network with federal leaders and professionals.
- Internship success may lead to permanent civil service positions.
3. Presidential Management Fellows (PMF) Program
If you’re pursuing an advanced degree, the PMF Program offers a leadership development track for future government leaders. Accepted candidates work on innovative projects and gain high-ranking mentorship.
Eligibility Requirements
- Recent completion of an advanced degree within the past two years or pending degree completion by August 31 of the year following application.
Featured Positions
- Management Analyst (Available 04/18/2024 – 04/24/2024): Work on strategic planning, program improvement, and operational growth.
- Health Insurance Specialist (04/18/2024 – 04/24/2024): Focus on healthcare policy and program development.
- Social Science Research Analyst (04/18/2024 – 04/24/2024): Support federal health initiatives through research and analysis.
4. Student Volunteer Program
This is a great non-paid internship program for students who want to gain work experience while pursuing their academic goals. Volunteers integrate classroom knowledge with real-world health-related projects at CMS.
Eligibility
- At least 16 years old.
- Enrolled half-time in an educational institution, including high school or college.
- U.S. Citizen.
Your Responsibilities
No matter the program, interns and recent graduates play a vital role at CMS by contributing to projects that impact millions of Americans. Some common responsibilities may include:
- Analyzing data, preparing reports, and assisting in policy development.
- Conducting research in areas like healthcare plans, government programs, or actuarial sciences.
- Supporting internal teams during audits, evaluations, or special initiatives.
- Communicating and collaborating within a professional federal environment.
What You’ll Gain
CMS internships provide students and recent graduates with a platform to excel in their careers. Highlights include:
- Meaningful Experience: Learn how federal programs operate while gaining hands-on expertise in healthcare and administration.
- Professional Development: Programs prioritize skill-building to prepare participants for long-term federal employment.
- Networking: Build connections with experienced professionals, policymakers, and government officials committed to public service.
- Flexibility for Students: Working while studying has never been more accessible with tailored schedules during school terms.
How to Apply
Applying for a CMS internship is straightforward but requires attention to detail. Follow these steps to submit your job application with confidence:
- Search for positions using relevant keywords like “CMS Internships” or “CMS Recent Graduate.”
- Review the vacancy announcements for full descriptions of roles, qualifications, and job postings.
- Prepare the required documents:
- Resume
- Cover letter
- Academic transcripts (official or unofficial)
- Submit your materials by the closing date of the announcement.
Application Tips
Make sure to carefully review each program’s eligibility requirements before applying. CMS is rigorous in candidate selection, and incomplete applications will not be considered. For ongoing updates, check your application status through USAJOBS regularly.
Take the First Step Toward a Career with CMS
Whether you’re an actuarial science enthusiast, an aspiring program manager, or a future policy expert, the CMS internships and Recent Graduates Program offers avenues for meaningful work, skill-building, and personal growth. These opportunities provide more than just a line on your resume—they can shape your career while making a substantial difference in public healthcare outcomes.
