Top 15 Best High School Internships in Atlanta, GA 2026

Introduction

Discovering internships for high school students in Atlanta opens doors to exceptional career exploration opportunities in the capital of the New South. From groundbreaking public health research at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to cutting-edge technology programs at Georgia Institute of Technology, biomedical innovation at Emory University, and civic engagement through the City of Atlanta’s Summer Youth Employment Program, Atlanta offers diverse paid internships and summer jobs for teens designed specifically for high school students.

Whether you’re passionate about aerospace engineering at Lockheed Martin, genetics research through Emory’s NextGen Program, conservation work at the Atlanta Botanical Garden, or media production with Tyler Perry Studios, Atlanta delivers comprehensive student opportunities that strengthen college applications and launch professional careers. The city’s combination of Fortune 500 headquarters, world-class universities, premier healthcare institutions, and thriving film industry creates an unmatched landscape for ambitious teens seeking real-world work experience.

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Top High School Internship Programs in Atlanta 2026

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

1. Atlanta Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP)

• Organization: City of Atlanta – Mayor’s Office
• Description: Citywide paid employment program placing Atlanta youth with government agencies, nonprofits, and businesses. Includes job readiness training, financial literacy workshops, and professional development.
• Eligibility: Ages 14-24, Atlanta residents
• Duration: 6-8 weeks (June-August), varies by placement
• Compensation: Paid – $10.50-13/hour
• Deadline: March 31, 2026
• Apply: Apply Here

2. Georgia Tech GTRI High School Internship

• Organization: Georgia Tech Research Institute
• Description: Paid STEM internship at premier research facility. Students work on projects in cyber security, robotics, artificial intelligence, aerospace engineering, and advanced manufacturing with GTRI researchers.
• Eligibility: Georgia residents, age 16+, rising juniors/seniors, strong STEM grades
• Duration: 5 weeks (June-July), full-time
• Compensation: Paid – $15/hour
• Deadline: February 1, 2026
• Apply: Apply Here

3. Emory NextGen High School Internship

• Organization: Emory University Department of Human Genetics
• Description: Paid biomedical research internship for students interested in genetics, genomics, and precision medicine. Rotate through labs and clinical experiences with expert mentorship and lectures.
• Eligibility: High school students (all grades), demonstrated STEM interest, diverse backgrounds encouraged
• Duration: 8 weeks (June-July), full-time
• Compensation: Paid stipend – $3,000
• Deadline: February 15, 2026
• Apply: Apply Here

4. CDC Student Worksite Experience Program

• Organization: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
• Description: Public health internship at world’s leading health protection agency. Work on disease prevention, health equity, epidemiology, laboratory science, and global health initiatives.
• Eligibility: High school students (grades 11-12), U.S. citizens, 3.0+ GPA
• Duration: 8-10 weeks (Summer)
• Compensation: Unpaid (academic credit available)
• Deadline: January 15, 2026
• Apply: Apply Here

5. Atlanta Botanical Garden Summer Internship

• Organization: Atlanta Botanical Garden
• Description: Horticulture, conservation, and education internship at premier botanical garden. Work in garden maintenance, plant collections, educational programming, and conservation research.
• Eligibility: High school students (all grades), ages 16+, Atlanta area
• Duration: 7 weeks (June-July), 18 hrs/week (Tues-Thurs)
• Compensation: Paid – $14/hour + MARTA card
• Deadline: March 1, 2026
• Apply: Apply Here

6. Carter Center Internships

• Organization: The Carter Center
• Description: International affairs and human rights internship at former President Jimmy Carter’s nonprofit. Work on democracy promotion, disease eradication, conflict resolution, and peace initiatives.
• Eligibility: High school seniors & college students, strong academic record, interest in global affairs
• Duration: Fall/Spring (20 hrs/week) or Summer (full-time)
• Compensation: Paid – Fall/Spring $5,100, Summer $3,400 stipend
• Deadline: Rolling by semester
• Apply: Apply Here

7. Lockheed Martin High School Internship

• Organization: Lockheed Martin Aeronautics – Marietta
• Description: Aerospace engineering and manufacturing internship at defense contractor. Work on F-35 fighter jets, C-130 aircraft, and advanced aviation projects with engineering teams.
• Eligibility: High school juniors/seniors, 3.0+ GPA, U.S. citizenship required, STEM coursework
• Duration: 10 weeks (June-August)
• Compensation: Paid – $18-20/hour
• Deadline: December 19, 2025
• Apply: Apply Here

8. Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta VolunTEEN

• Organization: Children’s Healthcare – Multiple Locations
• Description: Healthcare volunteer program with pathway to paid positions. Work in patient support, family services, administrative departments at three hospital campuses (Egleston, Scottish Rite, Hughes Spalding).
• Eligibility: Ages 15-18, grades 10-12, 2.5+ GPA, commitment to 100+ volunteer hours
• Duration: Year-round, 4 hours/week minimum
• Compensation: Initially volunteer; eligible for paid positions after completion
• Deadline: Rolling admissions
• Apply: Apply Here

9. Zoo Atlanta Youth Conservation Program

• Organization: Zoo Atlanta
• Description: Animal care, conservation education, and visitor services internship at premier zoo. Work with education staff on programming and behind-the-scenes animal experiences.
• Eligibility: Ages 15-18, Atlanta area, passion for wildlife and conservation
• Duration: 8 weeks (Summer), 15-20 hrs/week
• Compensation: Paid – $12/hour
• Deadline: February 28, 2026
• Apply: Contact Zoo Education Department

10. Atlanta Film Society Internships

• Organization: Atlanta Film Society
• Description: Film industry internship during Atlanta Film Festival and year-round programming. Work on festival operations, film programming, marketing, and industry events in Hollywood of the South.
• Eligibility: High school juniors/seniors, interest in film/media
• Duration: Year-round (begins with 8-week summer intensive)
• Compensation: Paid – hourly rate varies
• Deadline: March 15, 2026
• Apply: Apply Here

11. WorkSource Metro Atlanta Youth Program

• Organization: WorkSource Atlanta – WIOA
• Description: Comprehensive youth workforce development program connecting teens with employers citywide. Includes paid work experience, GED support, occupational skills training, and career counseling.
• Eligibility: Ages 16-24, meets income eligibility or barriers to employment
• Duration: Year-round, varies by placement
• Compensation: Paid – varies by employer
• Deadline: Rolling admissions
• Apply: Apply Here

12. Coca-Cola United Pay It Forward Internship

• Organization: Coca-Cola UNITED – Atlanta Operations
• Description: Business operations internship at beverage company. Rotate through manufacturing, marketing, distribution, and field-of-study departments learning all aspects of beverage industry.
• Eligibility: High school seniors & college students, strong academic record
• Duration: 8 weeks (Summer), full-time
• Compensation: Paid – $16-18/hour
• Deadline: February 1, 2026
• Apply: Apply Here

13. Atlanta Public Schools Career Pathways

• Organization: Atlanta Public Schools – CTE Programs
• Description: School-coordinated internships placing APS students with local employers across healthcare, business, IT, and hospitality industries. Designed for career exploration and skills development.
• Eligibility: APS high school students (all grades)
• Duration: Semester or summer, varies by placement
• Compensation: Varies – $11-15/hour typical
• Deadline: Rolling through school counselor
• Apply: Contact APS Career Centers

14. Trees Atlanta Youth Tree Team

• Organization: Trees Atlanta
• Description: Urban forestry and environmental education internship. Hands-on tree planting, maintenance, and conservation work with professional development workshops on job skills and financial literacy.
• Eligibility: High school students (all grades), Atlanta area
• Duration: 8 weeks (Summer), 25-30 hrs/week
• Compensation: Paid – $13/hour
• Deadline: March 15, 2026
• Apply: Apply Here

15. High Museum of Art Teen Programs

• Organization: High Museum of Art – Woodruff Arts Center
• Description: Museum education, gallery interpretation, and visitor services internship at Southeast’s leading art museum. Work with education staff on teen programs, tours, and special exhibitions.
• Eligibility: Ages 14-18, Atlanta area, interest in art/museums
• Duration: Academic year or summer, 8-12 hrs/week
• Compensation: Paid – $12-13/hour
• Deadline: October 2025 & February 2026
• Apply: Visit High Museum Website

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How to Apply for Internships in Atlanta

Successfully securing internships for high school students in Atlanta requires strategic planning and thorough preparation. Here’s your complete guide to navigating the application process in Georgia’s capital city.

Application Methods

Online Application Portals (Most Common)

Most Atlanta 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: Atlanta SYEP, Georgia Tech GTRI, Emory NextGen, CDC, Atlanta Botanical Garden, Lockheed Martin, Coca-Cola United, WorkSource Atlanta

Through School Counselors and CTE Programs

Many Atlanta programs coordinate through schools:

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

Programs coordinating through schools: APS Career Pathways, some CDC placements, WorkSource referrals

Direct Contact Methods

Regional 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 interviews

Programs accepting direct contact: Zoo Atlanta, Children’s Healthcare VolunTEEN, High Museum, Atlanta Film Society, Trees Atlanta

Required Documents Checklist

Prepare these materials before starting applications:

□ Resume – One page highlighting academics, activities, volunteer work, leadership, and prior employment. Students exploring Southeast opportunities should review internships for high school students in Charlotte for nearby 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 Atlanta/Georgia residency (for programs with geographic requirements)

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

□ Background Check – Some healthcare and government positions require background screening

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

Application Timeline

September – October: Research programs across Atlanta metro and begin preparation. Students considering neighboring states should explore internships for high school students in Florida or internships for high school students in North Carolina for additional Southeast opportunities.

November – December: Early deadline: Lockheed Martin (December 19). Finalize resume and cover letter templates. Request recommendation letters before winter break. Meet with counselors to obtain transcripts. For Georgia residents, Georgia Tech GTRI is highly competitive.

January: Early deadlines begin: CDC Student Worksite (January 15). Submit applications early as competitive programs review on rolling basis. Students exploring other major cities should consider internships for high school students in Houston.

February: Major deadlines: Georgia Tech GTRI (February 1), Coca-Cola United (February 1), Emory NextGen (February 15), Zoo Atlanta (February 28), High Museum (February for summer). Prepare for interviews as notifications begin arriving. For Midwest opportunities, explore internships for high school students in Cincinnati.

March: Peak application season: Atlanta Botanical Garden (March 1), Atlanta Film Society (March 15), Trees Atlanta (March 15), Atlanta SYEP (March 31). Complete all remaining applications. Students considering Texas programs should review internships for high school students in Dallas.

April: Most positions filled; focus on rolling admission programs like WorkSource, Children’s Healthcare VolunTEEN, and APS Career Pathways. For West Coast opportunities, explore internships for high school students in San Diego.

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

Tips for Stronger Applications

Emphasize Atlanta Connection: Many programs prioritize local residents. Highlight your ties to Atlanta—neighborhood, years in city, community involvement, knowledge of Atlanta’s history and culture. Reference specific Atlanta characteristics (civil rights heritage, economic growth, cultural diversity) to demonstrate authentic connection.

Demonstrate Field-Specific Interest: Research organizations thoroughly. For STEM programs (Georgia Tech, Emory, CDC), mention relevant science coursework and projects. For aerospace (Lockheed Martin), discuss physics and engineering interest. For public health (CDC), highlight biology and interest in health equity. For arts (High Museum, Film Society), share creative portfolio or projects.

Highlight Southern Values: Atlanta employers value courtesy, professionalism, teamwork, and strong work ethic. Emphasize reliability through attendance records, long-term commitments, and examples of collaborative success.

Address Atlanta’s Diversity: Atlanta is one of America’s most diverse cities with rich African American heritage and growing international communities. Programs value cultural competency and inclusion. Share your unique perspective and commitment to working with diverse populations.

Quantify Your Achievements: Use specific numbers. Replace “member of robotics team” with “collaborated with 15-member team to build robot that competed at state championship, finishing 5th among 60 schools.” Change “volunteered at hospital” to “completed 125+ volunteer hours assisting 300+ patients and families at local medical center.”

Apply Strategically Across Selectivity Levels: Competition varies widely. Apply to 10-12 programs spanning highly selective (Georgia Tech GTRI, Emory NextGen, Lockheed Martin), moderately competitive (CDC, Carter Center, Botanical Garden), and accessible (Atlanta SYEP, WorkSource, VolunTEEN, Trees Atlanta).

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

Leverage Metro Atlanta Geography: Consider opportunities in surrounding counties (DeKalb, Fulton, Cobb, Gwinnett). Many programs serve greater metro area beyond city limits.

Interview Preparation

Many competitive Atlanta programs conduct interviews:

• Research organization’s mission, recent news, and current projects
• Practice common questions: “Tell me about yourself,” “Why this internship?” “What do you know about Atlanta?”
• Prepare 2-3 thoughtful questions about responsibilities, mentorship, or skills development
• Dress professionally (business casual minimum; Southern professional standards)
• For video interviews, test technology, ensure good lighting and clean background
• Arrive 15-20 minutes early for in-person interviews (Atlanta traffic notorious)
• Send thank-you email within 24 hours

Students considering opportunities in other growing cities should review internships for high school students in Austin, internships for high school students in Phoenix, or internships for high school students in Denver.

External Resources

WorkSource Metro Atlanta
Free career counseling, job placement, and workforce development services – worksourceatlanta.org

City of Atlanta Year of the Youth
Youth programs, employment opportunities, and civic engagement – atlyearoftheyouth.com

Georgia Department of Labor – Youth Programs
State workforce resources and WIOA youth services – dol.georgia.gov

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

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Frequently Asked Questions

Are there paid internships for high school students in Atlanta?

Yes, approximately 70-75% of structured Atlanta high school internship programs offer monetary compensation ranging from $10.50-20/hour. Paid opportunities include Lockheed Martin ($18-20/hour), Georgia Tech GTRI ($15/hour), Coca-Cola United ($16-18/hour), Emory NextGen ($3,000 stipend), Atlanta Botanical Garden ($14/hour), and Carter Center ($3,400-5,100 stipends). Georgia minimum wage is $5.15/hour (federal $7.25 applies), but reputable youth programs typically pay $11-15/hour minimum. Atlanta SYEP provides accessible paid positions for 14-24 year olds at $10.50-13/hour.

When should I apply for summer internships in Atlanta?

Apply between December and March, with most deadlines in February-March. Very early deadline includes Lockheed Martin (December 19). Early deadlines include CDC (January 15), Georgia Tech GTRI (February 1), Coca-Cola (February 1), and Emory NextGen (February 15). Peak season is late February through March with Botanical Garden (March 1), Film Society (March 15), Trees Atlanta (March 15), and Atlanta SYEP (March 31). Rolling programs like WorkSource and Children’s Healthcare accept applications year-round. Georgia Tech GTRI fills extremely quickly.

Do I need work experience to get an Atlanta internship?

No, most programs are designed for students new to professional work. Programs like Atlanta SYEP, WorkSource, Trees Atlanta, and Children’s Healthcare VolunTEEN welcome first-time workers with comprehensive training. However, highly competitive programs (Georgia Tech GTRI, Emory NextGen, Lockheed Martin) receive applications from students with strong academic records, relevant coursework, and demonstrated interest through clubs or projects. Highlight transferable skills from school activities, volunteer work, sports, or leadership roles. Strong grades and recommendations can overcome lack of formal experience.

What parts of Atlanta have the most internship opportunities?

Midtown (Georgia Tech, Emory Midtown Hospital, High Museum, many nonprofits) and Downtown (CDC, city government, Carter Center, state agencies) offer highest concentrations. Buckhead provides corporate opportunities. Marietta (northwest suburb) hosts Lockheed Martin. Decatur (eastern suburb) has Emory University and CDC headquarters. Opportunities exist citywide through Atlanta SYEP, WorkSource placements, and neighborhood-based programs. MARTA rail and bus system connects major employment centers, though service limitations may affect some locations.

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

Both exist. Approximately 75% of Atlanta programs operate summers (June-August) for 6-10 weeks full-time. School-year options include Carter Center internships (Fall/Spring semesters, 20 hours/week), Atlanta Film Society (year-round with summer intensive), Children’s Healthcare VolunTEEN (year-round), High Museum teen programs (academic year), and WorkSource placements (year-round). School-year internships typically require 8-20 hours weekly after school or weekends. Most competitive research and corporate programs (Georgia Tech, Emory, Lockheed Martin) operate summer-only.

How competitive are Atlanta internship programs?

Competition varies significantly. Highly selective programs like Georgia Tech GTRI, Emory NextGen, and Lockheed Martin accept 10-20% of applicants. CDC, Carter Center, and Coca-Cola are moderately competitive at 25-35% acceptance. City programs (Atlanta SYEP, Botanical Garden) accept 40-60% of qualified applicants. Accessible programs like WorkSource, Children’s Healthcare volunteer program, and Trees Atlanta accept most students meeting basic requirements. Atlanta’s growing reputation and quality programs attract strong applicant pools even for accessible positions.

What industries are strongest for Atlanta high school internships?

Atlanta’s top internship industries align with city’s economic strengths: Healthcare/Public Health (CDC, Emory, Children’s Healthcare), Aerospace/Defense (Lockheed Martin), Film/Entertainment (Atlanta Film Society, Tyler Perry Studios), Technology/Research (Georgia Tech), Business/Consumer Goods (Coca-Cola, Fortune 500 headquarters), Nonprofit/International Affairs (Carter Center), Environmental Science (botanical gardens, Trees Atlanta), and Government/Civic Engagement (city programs, WorkSource). Healthcare and aerospace offer highest compensation; research and public health provide strongest college application benefits; city programs offer most accessible entry.

Can I earn school credit for Atlanta internships?

Yes, most Atlanta-area high schools offer academic credit through Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs. Atlanta Public Schools has robust CTE pathways coordinating internships for credit. Requirements typically include: counselor pre-approval, minimum hours (usually 135-180 hours for full elective credit), reflection assignments or journals, supervisor evaluations, and sometimes final presentations. Both paid and unpaid internships may qualify. Fulton, DeKalb, Cobb, and Gwinnett County schools have established work-based learning coordinators. Check with your school’s CTE coordinator before applying.

How do I manage transportation for Atlanta internships?

Transportation requires planning as Atlanta is car-dependent with limited public transit. MARTA: Rail serves limited corridors (Downtown, Midtown, Buckhead, airport); useful for CDC, Georgia Tech, some Midtown locations. Bus service covers more area but less frequent. Youth fare $1.25/ride; monthly pass available. Personal Vehicle: Most students need cars or family transportation, especially for suburban locations (Lockheed Martin in Marietta, Emory Druid Hills campus). Programs providing support: Botanical Garden provides MARTA cards or parking passes. Consider proximity when applying—positions requiring 45+ minute commutes without reliable transportation challenging to sustain. Atlanta traffic is notoriously heavy during rush hours.

Do Atlanta programs accept students from surrounding metro areas?

Yes, most programs accept students from greater Atlanta metro including all counties (Fulton, DeKalb, Cobb, Gwinnett, Clayton, etc.). Some programs specifically require City of Atlanta residency (Atlanta SYEP) or Georgia residency (Georgia Tech GTRI). Corporate and university programs (Lockheed Martin, Emory, CDC) welcome applicants from throughout metro area. Students from suburbs should verify residency requirements and address transportation plans in applications. Programs want assurance you can reliably complete the commitment despite commute distances. Mentioning MARTA access or reliable transportation strengthens suburban applications.

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Explore More Internship Opportunities

Expand Your Search Beyond Atlanta

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

• Internships for High School Students in Charlotte – North Carolina banking and business hub
• Internships for High School Students in Houston – Texas energy and medical center
• Internships for High School Students in Dallas – North Texas business and technology
• Internships for High School Students in Phoenix – Southwest aerospace and tech
• Internships for High School Students in San Diego – California biotech and defense
• Internships for High School Students in Austin – Texas tech capital
• Internships for High School Students in Cincinnati – Midwest corporate opportunities
• Internships for High School Students in Colorado – Mountain West tech and outdoor industry
• Internships for High School Students in California – West Coast statewide programs
• Virtual Internships for High School Students – Remote opportunities nationwide
• Browse All High School Internship Locations – Complete national directory

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Final Thoughts

Securing internships for high school students in Atlanta provides transformative opportunities in one of America’s most dynamic and fastest-growing cities. From groundbreaking public health research at the Centers for Disease Control to cutting-edge aerospace engineering at Lockheed Martin, biomedical innovation at Emory University, accessible youth employment through Atlanta SYEP, and media production in the Hollywood of the South, Georgia’s capital offers unparalleled career exploration for ambitious teens.

Atlanta’s unique combination of Fortune 500 headquarters, world-class universities, premier healthcare institutions, thriving film industry, and commitment to youth development creates pathways for students from every neighborhood—whether you’re from Buckhead, Southwest Atlanta, Midtown, Decatur, or surrounding metro counties.

Start your application process early—competitive programs review applications on rolling basis and fill positions quickly. Apply to 10-12 opportunities spanning different selectivity levels, industries, and geographic locations across metro Atlanta. Customize each application thoughtfully, emphasizing your specific interests, Atlanta connections, and career goals. Prepare professionally for interviews, leverage school CTE resources, and remember that persistence pays off.

Ready to launch your career journey? Review the program table above, mark critical deadlines in your calendar, and begin preparing materials today. Atlanta’s exceptional internship opportunities await motivated students ready to transform their career aspirations into reality in the capital of the New South.

Questions about applications or need guidance? Contact your school counselor, reach out to program coordinators listed above, visit WorkSource Metro Atlanta, or connect with the City of Atlanta’s Year of the Youth initiative for free career support services available to all Atlanta-area students.