Intern Program

Our Vision: We make dreams possible.

Yes, we’re a student loan servicer. We’re also a technology company, idea incubator, start-up accelerator, and K-12 and higher education expert. At Nelnet, we’re so much more than what you think—and we’re just getting started. So, no matter what you want to do in life—build codes or build brands—we’re the best place to do it.

Join Nelnet as an intern and do real work that matters to our business. All Nelnet interns receive one-on-one mentorship, competitive pay, casual dress, flexible schedule, intern-specific programming, and meaningful work experience.

Apply to one of our internships today. Your career awaits.

Nelnet’s AI Cohort Internship Program is a hands-on experience that offers interns a unique opportunity to work on AI-focused projects across multiple business units within Nelnet. This program is designed to foster a culture of innovation, enhance team AI capabilities, and meet evolving resource needs. Interns will collaborate with various teams, contribute to impactful projects, and gain exposure to AI applications in real business settings.

• Collaborate with Teams: Work closely with various business units to identify AI-driven opportunities for improved efficiency and productivity.

• Research & Database Management: Assist in building a research database for tracking AI projects and participate in knowledge-sharing initiatives across the organization.

• Project Support & Training: Conduct meetings with various teams to understand project requirements, deliver AI training sessions, and participate in hands-on support for ongoing initiatives.

• Documentation & Knowledge Transfer: Document all project steps, results, challenges, and recommendations for continued progress within teams.

• Final Presentation: Present findings, achievements, and key takeaways to Nelnet leadership and team members at the end of the internship.

EDUCATION:
Pursuing a degree in Computer Science, Data Science, Engineering, Business, Visual Media Arts, or a related field.

EXPERIENCE:

• Previous Internship/Project Experience (Preferred): Experience in AI-related internships, research projects, or personal AI/technology initiatives is a plus, but not required. Experience with data analysis, programming, or AI tool development is beneficial.

• Technical Skills: Familiarity with programming languages such as Python, R, or Java. Experience with AI/ML frameworks, data visualization tools, or database management platforms is highly desirable.

• Problem-Solving & Analytical Experience: Ability to approach complex problems with a structured, analytical mindset and deliver data-driven solutions. Experience using critical thinking to solve challenges is valued.

• Communication & Collaboration: Experience in working in a team setting, collaborating on projects, and effectively communicating ideas to both technical and non-technical team members.

• Project Documentation: Experience in documenting processes, results, and creating clear reports or presentations to convey findings and recommendations is a plus.

COMPETENCIES – SKILLS/KNOWLEDGE/ABILITIES:

• AI and Data Analysis Knowledge: Strong understanding of artificial intelligence concepts, machine learning models, and data analytics techniques. Familiarity with AI tools, algorithms, and frameworks is an advantage.

• Agentic AI Workflows: Comfortable with exploring how business processes can transform into Agentic AI workflows, and how AI Agents can lead, pair, and hand-off tasks in a multi-agentic environment. The ability to question what components are required—how data is organized, ethical and security concerns—will prove beneficial to understanding Agentic conversations.

• Programming & Technical Proficiency: Proficient in programming languages such as Python, R, or Java. Experience with data manipulation and analysis libraries (e.g., Pandas, NumPy) and machine learning frameworks (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch) is beneficial.

• Problem-Solving & Critical Thinking: Ability to break down complex problems into manageable tasks and apply logical reasoning to develop innovative solutions. A strong aptitude for troubleshooting and refining AI models or systems.

• Data Interpretation & Decision-Making: Ability to interpret large datasets and AI-generated insights to inform business decisions. Comfortable leveraging AI tools to analyze data and translate findings into actionable recommendations.

• Communication Skills: Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to clearly explain technical concepts to both technical and non-technical stakeholders. Comfortable presenting ideas, findings, and recommendations to a wide audience.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Demonstrates strong interpersonal skills, working effectively within a team and collaborating across departments. A team player who contributes to collective goals and values diverse perspectives.

• Attention to Detail: Highly detail-oriented with the ability to ensure accuracy in data handling, AI model implementation, and project documentation. Ensures quality control in deliverables.

• Adaptability & Willingness to Learn: Open to learning new technologies and methods within the rapidly evolving AI field. Able to adapt to changing business needs and technological advancements in AI.

• Ethical Awareness: Strong understanding of ethical considerations in AI development, particularly regarding data privacy, algorithmic fairness, and the responsible use of AI technologies.

Pay - $21 - $27/ hourly

Nelnet is committed to providing a welcoming and respectful workplace where all associates have the opportunity to succeed. As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we ensure that all qualified applicants are considered for employment. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion/creed, national origin, gender, sex, marital status, age, disability, use of a guide dog or service animal, sexual orientation, military/veteran status, or any other status protected by federal, state, or local law. We value the unique contributions of every team member and believe that a positive work environment benefits everyone.

Qualified individuals with disabilities who require reasonable accommodations in order to apply or compete for positions at Nelnet may request such accommodations by contacting Corporate Recruiting at 402-486-5725 or[email protected].

Nelnet is a Drug Free and Tobacco Free Workplace.