NWS Jackson Student Programs
Accepting applications for the Fall 2026 virtual volunteer program through August 19th at 5 PM. Click here to begin the application process.
Student Volunteer Application Requirements
After filling out the online application form, student volunteer applicants will need to submit the following items via email to sr-jan.volunteer@noaa.gov .
Job shadow students are not required to submit these materials.
Student Volunteer Program
The National Weather Service Jackson, MS student programs allow students at all levels to learn more about the local forecast office and meteorology in general. Students interested in meteorology can job shadow to see if operational meteorology is the right career path for them. For students interested in a career with the National Weather Service or operational meteorology, the volunteer program provides the greatest exposure.
The Student Volunteer Program provides an opportunity for students of meteorology and related fields (emergency management, hydrology, GIS, information technology, social science) to gain experience working with professional meteorologists. Students can engage with the office staff virtually and in-person. Volunteer students will learn about routine duties and forecasting tools, and they will have the opportunity to participate in office projects and research.
The in-person volunteer program is available throughout the year, including the summer. Students usually volunteer over a semester or approximately 3 months, but it can be extended. The students visit the office a few hours a week to gain hands-on experience. Students learn to issue routine products, use local tools, and engage with the public and key partners using various communication platforms. The students have the opportunity to participate in local outreach events and support severe weather operations.
The virtual volunteer program is generally available in the fall and runs from September to November, ending before the holidays. The students participate in small group style sessions, where they can ask questions and develop professional relationships with the local staff, similar to in-person students. There are usually 10-12 weekly workshops that cover topics related to NWS forecast office operations, like inland tropical flooding, short term and aviation forecasting, severe weather forecasting, spotter training and basic radar principles.
Students interested in pursuing a career with the National Weather Service can be paired with a mentor and receive support from NWS employees, whether virtual or in-person. Mentors help students with research projects and presentations or support students working on local projects used for office operations. Mentors also help students improve their oral and written communication skills by conducting practice weather briefings and mock interviews.
The upcoming virtual program will last from September 1st through November 17th. Sessions will be at 7 PM CT on Tuesdays. Complete the interest form and submit the required documents to apply.
The virtual volunteer program will include::
Job Shadow Program
An alternative program is available for students who aren't ready or able to commit to the full student volunteer program. Job shadow students can shadow up to three shifts with National Weather Service professionals. The objective of this program is to help students assess their interest in the National Weather Service, and more broadly, the field of meteorology (and related fields). Job shadow students still have the opportunity to become student volunteers in the future.
Who can apply for the volunteer programs?
College students of meteorology and related fields (emergency management, hydrology, GIS, information technology, social science). High school students interested in becoming a meteorologist are also encouraged to apply.
If you’re interested in a job shadow or office tour, call the office at 601-936-2189 to get it scheduled.
Is this a paid internship?
National Weather Service student volunteers are unpaid. This program provides an opportunity to receive valuable work experience, receive guidance from trained professionals, and establish contacts within our agency. The National Weather Service does offer a limited number of paid internship positions that can be found here.
More Information
For more information on the student volunteer program, send an email to sr-jan.volunteer@noaa.gov .
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