Internships
MISO prepares interns for future roles by providing meaningful, immersive work which directly impacts MISO's business. As the energy industry evolves, we need bright, motivated, diverse problem solvers.
The work we do impacts society.
45 million people depend on MISO to keep their lights on. That's because MISO is responsible for managing the flow of power across its 15 state region. Our interns work on real-world projects that support our critical mission.
You will tackle world-class challenges.
The electric grid is undergoing a transformation bigger than what's ever been seen before. We are seeing more green energy, less fossil fuels, the electrification of the U.S. and an increase in severe weather impacting the grid. These factors combined require the best and brightest minds to work together and find solutions that will ensure power flows reliably 24/7/365. Our interns bring fresh perspectives and innovative ideas that are critical to tackling these challenges. You won't be bored looking for things to do here.
It's about more than the work.
MISO's culture isn't about the work. It's about the people. This is a place where we strive to hear all voices, consider all ideas and collaborate on solutions. It's a place where we value our people, promote idea sharing and prioritize community. From day one, MISO interns are welcomed into the MISO family. You will have an assigned mentor, manager, and buddy team to support you every day of the internship. We will treat you like a member of team, not an intern.
MISO's internship program will push you in new directions. Along with the important work you do, there will be opportnities to meet and talk with executives, attend community service events, and even partner with recruiters to prepare for landing a job after graduation no matter where you want to go.
The goal of our internship program is for you to not only learn about MISO and the electric industry--we want you to learn about yourself, your strengths and career interests. We do our best to prepare you for whatever industry you join after graduating.
It's fun!
We think working at MISO is fun and want to show you that side of our culture. Come join us!
1. What is the application and interview process?
Internship positions are posted on MISO's website beginning in September. This is also when our team attends college career fairs. Once we have our pool of candidates, MISO recruiters contact qualified applicants for an intial phone interview and schedule video interviews between October and December. Students who accept an official offer begin their internship in late May.
2. Do I need relevant experience to apply? Relevant work experience is not required but is certainly helpful to make an applicant stand out.
3. Is there a minimum GPA requirement? There is no minimum GPA required to apply for MISO internships.
4. What majors are eligible to apply? All majors are encouraged to apply. MISO offers internships in IT, engineering, cyber security, data and computer science, communications, finance, legal and several other fields. Read the job descriptions in our job ads for specific criteria and requirements.
5. Are international students eligible to apply? MISO is unable to sponsor international students.
6. Do all three MISO locations accept interns? Yes, interns may apply for a position in Indiana, Minnesota or Arkansas.
7. Which Universities do your interns attend? MISO has had interns from universities across the U.S.
1. Is this a paid internship? Yes, interns work a maximum of 40 hours per week and they are paid for the hours they work. MISO also offers travel accommodations for non-local students.
2. Where do interns live? When possible, MISO provides local housing for interns in each location as needed.
3. How big is the intern class? The number fluctuates from year-to-year. In 2024 we hired around 30 interns. We make sure there are multiple opportunties for interns to get to know one another.
4. What type of work are interns given? Interns are assigned projects that tie directly into the work their team is doing. You will be provided with the tools and technology needed to do the job and you will have a mentor for support and guidance.
5. Which areas of the business do interns typically work? Multiple areas: Digital Technology, Digital Strategy, IT, Grid Planning, Standards and Assurance, Finance, Legal, Communications, System Operations, and Market Operations.
6. How long does the internship program last? The program typically lasts 11 weeks beginning in late May and ending in early August.
7. I still have more questions, who do I contact? Contact MISO’s internship coordinator.
My Intern Experience: Electrical Engineering Student, Texas A&M
My Intern Experience: Science Technology and Environmental Policy Student, University of Minnesota
My Intern Experience: Communications and Public Relations Student, Purdue
Investing in our People and Culture: MISO Awarded "Best/Top Places to Work"
MISO Recognized for Early Career Talent Development
MISO Internship Program/Employees Recognized for Excellence
Partnering with HBCUs - Accessing Careers in Energy Summit
What to Expect
Interns work up to 40 hours a week in a hybrid environment. During the 11-week program, you will be part of a MISO team and assigned a project that directly impacts the business. Along with your project work, you will be exposed to personal and professional development opportunities. From resume building, to community service. From competing in a data challenge, to delivering your project's final report in front of your peers, team members, MISO employees and executives. Interns are supported every step of the way with a dedicated manager, mentor, and a buddy team to ensure you are set up to succeed.
Mentorship: Enhancing the Intern Experience
We want our interns to feel supported throughout their summer internship. That's why we pair them with a dedicated mentor. Mentors work on the same team as the intern. They are there to guide, assist and ensure their interns are set up for success. Additionally, interns participate in our Buddy Program, where they have the opportunity to meet and interact with employees outside their department.
Professional Development
One of the most important goals of our internship program is to shape students into well-rounded professionals who are prepared to enter the workforce. Interns are exposed to several resources and mentors to nurture their professional success. There are multiple training opportunities during the experience, covering topics such as how to best communicate professionally, financial wellness and the importance of personal branding.
Intern to Full-time Employee
Some of our most successful employees first joined MISO as an intern. By assigning interns meaningful projects, we are able to assess their skills and abilities. At the same time, the hands-on experience allows our interns to decide if MISO is the right fit for them. It is common for MISO to offer interns full-time positions upon completing their degrees. Most importantly, our internship program aims to prepare all of our interns for full-time roles, wherever they choose to go next.
In Their Own Words
Intern insights on their MISO experience. You can also learn more about the projects they completed.