Top 15 Best 15 High School Internships in Buffalo, NY 2026

Last Updated: October 2, 2025 | Author: Career Development Team

Contents

Introduction

Discovering internships for high school students in Buffalo opens doors to exceptional career exploration opportunities in Western New York’s largest city and a rising hub of medical innovation and advanced manufacturing. From groundbreaking cancer research at Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center—the only NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center in Upstate New York, cutting-edge medical device innovation at the Jacobs Institute, accessible youth employment through Erie County’s Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP), legal profession exposure through New York State courts, to renewable energy experiences with National Grid, Buffalo offers diverse paid internships and summer jobs for teens designed specifically for high school students.

Whether you’re passionate about biomedical research at the University at Buffalo’s medical school, vascular disease innovation at the Gates Vascular Institute, architecture and preservation at historic Frank Lloyd Wright sites, environmental science along Lake Erie and Niagara River corridors, or advanced manufacturing in Buffalo’s revitalized industrial sector, Buffalo delivers comprehensive student opportunities that strengthen college applications and launch professional careers. The city’s combination of world-class medical institutions, major university research facilities, Fortune 500 corporate presence, and robust county-sponsored youth programs creates an unmatched landscape for ambitious teens seeking real-world work experience.

Top High School Internship Programs in Buffalo 2026

Below are 15 verified and current internship opportunities for high school students in Buffalo. All information has been confirmed for the 2026 application cycle with updated deadlines and program details.

1. Erie County Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP)

Organization: Erie County Department of Social Services
Description: Eight-week paid employment program placing youth with employers across Erie County including Buffalo, Cheektowaga, Tonawanda, and surrounding communities. Includes mandatory educational activities and workforce readiness.
Eligibility: Ages 14-20, Erie County residents, income eligibility requirements
Duration: 8 weeks (Summer), 20 hrs/week
Compensation: Paid – minimum wage ($15.50/hour NY minimum)
Deadline: Opens February 2026
Apply: Apply Here

2. Roswell Park SURE-CAN Program

Organization: Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center
Description: Six-week immersive cancer research internship at nation’s oldest cancer center. Work with PhD scientists on hands-on wet/dry lab research, attend lectures on cancer biology, genomics, AI in medicine, and present formal poster at research symposium.
Eligibility: High school juniors only (class of 2027), Erie/Niagara/Cattaraugus/Chautauqua county residents & enrolled students, U.S. citizens/permanent residents, 15+ by June 26
Duration: 6 weeks (June 26-August 7), full-time 40 hrs/week
Compensation: Limited paid stipends available based on qualifications
Deadline: October 1, 2025-January 2, 2026
Apply: Apply Here

3. Jacobs Institute Next Gen Internship

Organization: Jacobs Institute – Gates Vascular Institute
Description: Medical device innovation internship focused on heart attack and stroke treatment. Two-week program for 20 students with 8 selected for additional 5 weeks of lab skills training. Work with physicians, engineers, and medical device companies.
Eligibility: Rising juniors/seniors, Western NY students, budding interest in STEM/medicine
Duration: 2 weeks (July 7-18) OR 7 weeks (July 7-Aug 22) for selected students
Compensation: Paid – $599.60 stipend for 2-week; $599.60 + $15.50/hour for 7-week
Deadline: Opens March 2026; deadline April 1, 2026
Apply: Apply Here

4. Say Yes Buffalo Paid Internships

Organization: Say Yes Buffalo – Partner Organizations
Description: Comprehensive paid internship program placing Buffalo Public Schools students with local employers and nonprofits. Focus on career exploration, professional development, and college/career readiness for underserved students.
Eligibility: Buffalo Public Schools & Buffalo charter school students, various grade levels
Duration: Varies by placement, summer or academic year
Compensation: Paid – varies by employer
Deadline: December 1, 2025 (early application encouraged)
Apply: Apply Here

5. 8th Judicial District Court Internship

Organization: NY State Courts – Buffalo/Erie County
Description: Legal system internship working in state courts, judges’ chambers, and court administration. Gain firsthand exposure to judicial process, legal research, courtroom procedures, and case management.
Eligibility: High school students & college students, Western NY residents, interest in law
Duration: Summer or semester, varies by placement
Compensation: Varies – some paid positions
Deadline: Opens February 2026 for Summer 2026
Apply: Apply Here

6. National Grid STEM Leadership Camp

Organization: National Grid – Buffalo Operations
Description: Leadership and STEM skills development program for talented Buffalo-area students. Focus on math, engineering, science leadership with practical learning, college readiness, and career preparation in energy/utilities sector.
Eligibility: High school students, Buffalo/Western NY area, demonstrated STEM interest
Duration: Summer intensive program, varies
Compensation: Scholarship-based program
Deadline: Contact National Grid Community Relations
Apply: Contact National Grid

7. University at Buffalo CSTEP Summer Internship

Organization: UB Cora P. Maloney Center
Description: Nine-week STEM and allied health professions internship for underrepresented students. Research experience with UB faculty preparing students for STEM careers through hands-on lab work and professional development.
Eligibility: High school students & college students, focus on underrepresented populations in STEM, enrolled in CSTEP program
Duration: 9 weeks (Summer), varies
Compensation: Paid stipend provided
Deadline: Contact CSTEP office
Apply: Apply Here

8. Buffalo Zoo Youth Conservation Corps

Organization: Buffalo Zoo – Delaware Park
Description: Animal care, conservation education, and visitor services internship. Work with education staff on youth programming, animal encounters, habitat maintenance, and conservation initiatives at historic zoo.
Eligibility: Ages 14-18, Buffalo/Western NY area, passion for wildlife and conservation
Duration: 8 weeks (Summer), 15-20 hrs/week
Compensation: Paid – $13-15/hour
Deadline: March 2026
Apply: Contact Zoo Education Department

9. Buffalo Museum of Science Teen Programs

Organization: Buffalo Museum of Science
Description: Museum education, exhibit interpretation, and STEM programming internship. Work on visitor engagement, camps, planetarium shows, and science demonstrations at historic museum.
Eligibility: Ages 14-18, Buffalo area, interest in science education
Duration: Academic year or summer, 10-15 hrs/week
Compensation: Paid – $13/hour
Deadline: October 2025 & February 2026
Apply: Apply Here

10. Explore & More Children’s Museum Internship

Organization: Explore & More – East Aurora
Description: Children’s museum education and operations internship. Work on interactive exhibits, programming, special events, and visitor services at hands-on learning center.
Eligibility: Ages 15-18, Buffalo/Erie County area, interest in education
Duration: Summer or semester, 12-16 hrs/week
Compensation: Paid – $13/hour
Deadline: March 2026
Apply: Contact Museum Human Resources

11. M&T Bank Summer Internship Program

Organization: M&T Bank – Buffalo Headquarters
Description: Banking and financial services internship at regional banking leader. Opportunities in retail banking, operations, IT, marketing, and business divisions at corporate headquarters.
Eligibility: High school seniors & college students, Western NY area, strong academics
Duration: 8-10 weeks (Summer), full-time
Compensation: Paid – $16-18/hour
Deadline: December 2025
Apply: Apply Here

12. Buffalo Niagara Partnership Youth Internship

Organization: Buffalo Niagara Partnership
Description: Business and economic development internship at region’s chamber of commerce. Work on member engagement, events, communications, and regional development initiatives.
Eligibility: High school juniors/seniors, Buffalo/Niagara region, interest in business
Duration: 6-8 weeks (Summer), 15-20 hrs/week
Compensation: Paid stipend provided
Deadline: March 15, 2026
Apply: Contact Partnership Education Programs

13. Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy Youth Program

Organization: Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy
Description: Historic parks and environmental conservation internship. Hands-on work maintaining Frederick Law Olmsted-designed parks with horticulture, ecology, and public programs.
Eligibility: High school students (all grades), Buffalo area
Duration: 6-8 weeks (Summer), 20-25 hrs/week
Compensation: Paid – $14/hour
Deadline: March 2026
Apply: Apply Here

14. New Era Cap Internship Program

Organization: New Era Cap Company – Buffalo Headquarters
Description: Fashion, manufacturing, and business operations internship at iconic headwear company. Work on design, production, marketing, or business operations at global brand’s Buffalo HQ.
Eligibility: High school seniors & college students, Western NY area
Duration: 10 weeks (Summer), full-time
Compensation: Paid – competitive rate
Deadline: January 2026
Apply: Apply through New Era Careers Portal

15. Frank Lloyd Wright Darwin Martin House Internship

Organization: Darwin Martin House Complex
Description: Architecture, historic preservation, and museum education internship. Work on tours, education programs, and preservation projects at Wright’s masterpiece Prairie house.
Eligibility: Ages 15-18, Buffalo area, interest in architecture/history
Duration: Summer or academic year, 10-15 hrs/week
Compensation: Paid – $13/hour
Deadline: February 2026
Apply: Contact Education Department

How to Apply for Internships in Buffalo

Successfully securing internships for high school students in Buffalo requires strategic planning and thorough preparation. Here’s your complete guide to navigating the application process in Western New York’s largest city.

Application Methods

Online Application Portals (Most Common)

Most Buffalo internship programs use digital application systems where you’ll:

Create secure account with email and password
Complete forms with personal, academic, and contact information
Upload resume and cover letter as PDF files
Answer essay questions about interests, goals, and qualifications
Provide 2-3 references (teachers, counselors, employers)
Submit transcripts showing current GPA and coursework
Track application status through dashboard

Programs using online portals: Erie County SYEP, Roswell Park SURE-CAN, Jacobs Institute, Say Yes Buffalo, 8th Judicial District Courts, M&T Bank, University at Buffalo CSTEP, Buffalo Olmsted Parks

Through School Counselors and Career Centers

Many Buffalo programs coordinate through schools:

Meet with school counselor or career advisor in early fall to discuss internship goals
Request teacher recommendations 3-4 weeks before deadlines
Have counselors submit official transcripts or nominations
Coordinate through Buffalo Public Schools Career and Technical Education (CTE) offices or Say Yes Buffalo coordinators
Obtain work permits through school (required for students under 18 in New York)

Programs coordinating through schools: Say Yes Buffalo, some Erie County SYEP placements, University at Buffalo CSTEP (must be enrolled in program)

Direct Contact Methods

Local organizations may prefer email or phone contact:

Email professional inquiry: “Summer 2026 Internship Application – [Your Name]”
Attach labeled resume and cover letter PDFs
Include 3-4 sentence introduction in email body
Follow up after one week if no response
Be prepared for quick phone or video interviews

Programs accepting direct contact: Buffalo Zoo, Buffalo Museum of Science, Explore & More, National Grid STEM Camp, Buffalo Niagara Partnership, Frank Lloyd Wright Darwin Martin House

Required Documents Checklist

Prepare these materials before starting applications:

□ Resume – One page highlighting academics, activities, volunteer work, leadership, and prior employment. Students exploring New York State opportunities should review internships for high school students in New York for statewide programs.

□ Cover Letter – Customized 250-400 word letter explaining specific interest in each program and relevant qualifications

□ Transcripts – Unofficial copies showing current courses and GPA (official may be required later)

□ References – Contact information for 2-3 adults who can speak to your abilities and character

□ Personal ID – Birth certificate, driver’s license, or state ID proving age

□ Proof of Residency – Document showing Erie County or specific county residency (for programs with geographic requirements)

□ Work Permit – New York requires employment certificates for workers under 18; obtain from school with parent signature

□ Background Check – Healthcare and court positions require background screening

□ Essays/Writing Samples – Competitive programs request 300-500 word responses on career goals or challenges overcome

□ Parental Consent – Some programs (Roswell Park SURE-CAN) require signed parental consent forms

Application Timeline

September – October: Research programs across Buffalo metro and begin preparation. Students considering neighboring regions should explore internships for high school students in Rochester or internships for high school students in Syracuse for additional Upstate New York opportunities.

November – December: Early deadlines: M&T Bank (December), Say Yes Buffalo (December 1), New Era Cap (January). Finalize resume and cover letter templates. Request recommendation letters before winter break. Meet with counselors to obtain transcripts. For students interested in major East Coast cities, consider internships for high school students in New York City.

January: Major deadline: Roswell Park SURE-CAN closes (January 2, 2026). Submit applications early as competitive medical programs fill quickly. Students exploring other regions should consider internships for high school students in Pennsylvania.

February: Peak season begins: Erie County SYEP opens (February), 8th Judicial District Courts open (February), Frank Lloyd Wright Darwin Martin House (February), Buffalo Museum of Science (February for summer). Prepare for interviews as notifications begin arriving. For Mid-Atlantic opportunities, explore internships for high school students in Baltimore or internships for high school students in Washington DC.

March: Peak application season: Jacobs Institute opens and closes (March open, April 1 deadline), Buffalo Zoo (March), Buffalo Olmsted Parks (March), Explore & More (March), Buffalo Niagara Partnership (March 15). Complete all remaining applications. Students considering Midwest programs should review internships for high school students in Chicago or internships for high school students in Cleveland.

April: Most competitive positions filled; focus on rolling admission programs like Erie County SYEP (still accepting), 8th Judicial District Courts. For Southern opportunities, explore internships for high school students in Charlotte or internships for high school students in Atlanta.

May – August: Attend orientation, finalize schedules, and begin summer internships across Buffalo.

Tips for Stronger Applications

Emphasize Buffalo Connection: Many programs prioritize Western New York residents. Highlight your ties to Buffalo—neighborhood, years in area, community involvement, knowledge of Buffalo’s renaissance and resilience. Reference specific Buffalo characteristics (medical innovation, architectural heritage, waterfront revitalization, community spirit) to demonstrate authentic connection.

Demonstrate Field-Specific Interest: Research organizations thoroughly. For medical programs (Roswell Park, Jacobs Institute, UB CSTEP), mention relevant science coursework, lab experience, and healthcare career interests. For legal programs (8th Judicial District), discuss government classes and justice system knowledge. For architecture (Darwin Martin House), share design interests and appreciation for Buffalo’s architectural significance. For environmental programs (Buffalo Zoo, Olmsted Parks), demonstrate conservation passion.

Highlight Western New York Values: Buffalo employers value hard work, resilience, loyalty, and community commitment. Emphasize reliability through attendance records, perseverance through challenges, and examples of giving back through volunteer work or neighborhood involvement. Buffalo’s comeback story resonates—share your own growth narratives.

Address Buffalo’s Diversity: Buffalo is increasingly diverse with growing refugee and immigrant populations alongside established African American and Polish, Italian, and Irish communities. Programs value cultural competency, inclusion, and authentic perspectives. Share your unique background and commitment to working across diverse communities.

Quantify Your Achievements: Use specific numbers. Replace “member of Science Olympiad” with “competed in 6 Science Olympiad competitions, earning bronze medal at regional tournament among 40 Western NY schools.” Change “volunteered at community center” to “tutored 25+ elementary students weekly in math and reading for 100+ hours at neighborhood community center.”

Apply Strategically Across Selectivity Levels: Competition varies widely. Apply to 10-12 programs spanning highly selective (Roswell Park SURE-CAN, Jacobs Institute 7-week, M&T Bank), moderately competitive (Say Yes Buffalo, UB CSTEP, National Grid, Buffalo Niagara Partnership), and accessible (Erie County SYEP, Buffalo Zoo, Museum of Science, Olmsted Parks, Explore & More).

Customize Everything: Never submit identical applications. Tailor each cover letter referencing specific programs, Buffalo connections, or organizational missions. Generic applications are immediately obvious to reviewers.

Leverage Metro Buffalo Geography: Consider opportunities in surrounding communities (East Aurora for Explore & More, Cheektowaga, Tonawanda, West Seneca, Amherst for UB). Many programs serve greater Erie County beyond city limits.

Interview Preparation

Many competitive Buffalo programs conduct interviews:

Research organization’s mission, recent news, and current projects
Practice common questions: “Tell me about yourself,” “Why this internship?” “What interests you about Buffalo’s comeback?”
Prepare 2-3 thoughtful questions about responsibilities, mentorship, or skills development
Dress professionally (business casual standard; Buffalo maintains traditional professional standards with friendly Midwestern approachability)
For video interviews, test technology, ensure good lighting and clean background
Arrive 15-20 minutes early for in-person interviews (Buffalo traffic generally manageable but winter weather unpredictable)
Send thank-you email within 24 hours
Be prepared to discuss Buffalo’s assets—you’re representing a city proud of its renaissance

Students considering opportunities in other major Northeastern cities should review internships for high school students in Boston or internships for high school students in Philadelphia.

External Resources

Erie County Summer Youth Employment Program
County youth employment and workforce development – erie.gov/syep

Say Yes Buffalo
Buffalo Public Schools scholarship and support programs – sayyesbuffalo.org

Buffalo Urban League Career Connection
Workforce development and youth services – buffalourbanleague.org

New York State Department of Labor – Youth Programs
State workforce resources and youth employment – labor.ny.gov

U.S. Department of Labor – Youth Rules
Federal guidance on child labor laws and teen employment rights – youthrules.gov

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there paid internships for high school students in Buffalo?

Yes, approximately 70-75% of structured Buffalo high school internship programs offer monetary compensation ranging from $13-18/hour. Erie County SYEP provides accessible paid positions for youth ages 14-20 at New York’s minimum wage ($15.50/hour).

When should I apply for summer internships in Buffalo?

Apply between December and April, with very early deadlines including Say Yes Buffalo (December 1) and Roswell Park SURE-CAN (January 2). Peak season is February-March when Erie County SYEP opens and most programs have deadlines including Jacobs Institute (April 1).

Do I need work experience to get a Buffalo internship?

No, most programs are designed for students new to professional work. Erie County SYEP, Say Yes Buffalo, Buffalo Zoo, Museum of Science, and Olmsted Parks welcome first-time workers, while competitive programs like Roswell Park and Jacobs Institute prefer strong STEM backgrounds and research interest.

What parts of Buffalo have the most internship opportunities?

Buffalo Medical Campus (Roswell Park, Jacobs Institute/Gates Vascular, UB Medical School) and downtown (courts, M&T Bank, museums) offer highest concentrations. University at Buffalo North Campus provides research opportunities, while Delaware Park area has zoo and Olmsted Parks programs.

Can I do internships during the school year or only summer?

Both exist with approximately 85% operating summers (June-August). School-year options include UB CSTEP Academic Year Internship, 8th Judicial District Courts (semester-long), Frank Lloyd Wright Darwin Martin House (academic year), and Buffalo Museum of Science (year-round positions).

How competitive are Buffalo internship programs?

Competition varies significantly from highly selective Roswell Park SURE-CAN and Jacobs Institute 7-week (10-25% acceptance) to moderately competitive M&T Bank and National Grid (30-40%) to accessible Erie County SYEP and museum/parks programs (60-80% of qualified applicants).

What industries are strongest for Buffalo high school internships?

Buffalo’s top internship industries include Healthcare/Biomedical Research (Roswell Park, Jacobs Institute, UB medical programs), Banking/Financial Services (M&T Bank headquarters), Legal Services (NY State Courts), Manufacturing (New Era Cap), Historic Preservation (Darwin Martin House, Olmsted Parks), and Education (museums, zoo).

Can I earn school credit for Buffalo internships?

Yes, most Buffalo-area schools offer academic credit through Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs and work-based learning coordinators. Buffalo Public Schools coordinates closely with Say Yes Buffalo, and Jacobs Institute specifically mentions providing Work Base Learning hours documentation for CTE students.

How do I manage transportation for Buffalo internships?

Buffalo offers NFTA Metro Rail (light rail) connecting downtown Medical Campus to University at Buffalo South Campus, plus extensive bus system. Many key internship sites (Roswell Park, Jacobs Institute, courts, M&T Bank, museums) are accessible via public transit, though some suburban locations may require personal transportation.

Do Buffalo programs accept students from surrounding Erie County communities?

Yes, most programs accept students from throughout Erie County and greater Western New York including suburbs like Amherst, Cheektowaga, Tonawanda, West Seneca, Lackawanna, Hamburg, East Aurora, and Clarence. Roswell Park SURE-CAN specifically accepts students from Erie, Niagara, Cattaraugus, and Chautauqua counties.

Explore More Internship Opportunities

Expand Your Search Beyond Buffalo

Looking for additional opportunities or considering programs in other regions? Explore these resources:

Internships for High School Students in Rochester – Upstate New York innovation hub
Internships for High School Students in Syracuse – Central New York opportunities
Internships for High School Students in New York – Statewide programs across New York
Internships for High School Students in New York City – NYC metro area programs
Internships for High School Students in Brooklyn – Brooklyn-specific opportunities
Internships for High School Students in Pennsylvania – Neighboring state programs
Internships for High School Students in Cleveland – Great Lakes region
Internships for High School Students in Chicago – Midwest major metro
Internships for High School Students in Boston – Northeast education hub
Internships for High School Students in Philadelphia – Mid-Atlantic opportunities
Internships for High School Students in Baltimore – Maryland healthcare programs
Internships for High School Students in Washington DC – Nation’s capital
Virtual Internships for High School Students – Remote opportunities nationwide
Browse All High School Internship Locations – Complete national directory

Final Thoughts

Securing internships for high school students in Buffalo provides transformative opportunities in Western New York’s comeback city, combining world-class cancer research at Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, innovative medical device work at the Jacobs Institute, accessible youth employment through Erie County SYEP serving hundreds of teens annually, banking excellence at M&T Bank’s regional headquarters, and unique architectural preservation at Frank Lloyd Wright’s Darwin Martin House masterpiece. Buffalo’s renaissance as a medical innovation hub, its architectural treasures, waterfront revitalization, and strong community commitment create unparalleled pathways for students from every neighborhood—from the East Side to South Buffalo, Elmwood Village to North Buffalo, and throughout Erie County suburbs.

Start your application process early with critical deadlines beginning in December (Say Yes Buffalo) and January (Roswell Park). Apply to 10-12 opportunities spanning different selectivity levels and industries across metro Buffalo. Customize applications emphasizing your Western New York connections, resilience, and commitment to Buffalo’s continued renaissance while leveraging the region’s strong community values and world-class medical and educational institutions.

Questions about applications or need guidance? Contact your school counselor, reach out to program coordinators listed above, visit Say Yes Buffalo resources, or connect with the Buffalo Urban League Career Connection for support services available to all Western New York students.

Top 15 Best 15 High School Internships in Buffalo, NY 2026

Introduction

Top High School Internship Programs in Buffalo 2026