Top 15 Best High School Internships in Dallas, TX 2026

Introduction

Discovering internships for high school students in Dallas unlocks exceptional career exploration opportunities in the heart of Texas. From cutting-edge computer science research at the University of Texas at Dallas to healthcare innovation at UT Southwestern Medical Center, aviation careers with Southwest Airlines, and civic engagement through Dallas Works Summer Internship Program, Dallas offers diverse paid internships and summer jobs for teens designed specifically for high school students.

Whether you’re passionate about technology and engineering at Texas Instruments, medical research at UT Southwestern’s psychiatry program, environmental conservation at the Dallas Zoo, or business operations with American Airlines, Dallas delivers comprehensive student opportunities that strengthen college applications and launch professional careers. The city’s combination of Fortune 500 headquarters, world-class medical facilities, premier research universities, and accessible youth employment programs creates an unmatched landscape for ambitious teens seeking real-world work experience.

This guide features 15 verified internship programs for high school students in Dallas for the 2026 cycle, covering opportunities from Downtown to North Dallas, the Arts District to the Medical District. Complete with application deadlines, eligibility requirements, and compensation details, discover how to secure meaningful career exploration experiences in Big D.

---

Top High School Internship Programs in Dallas 2026

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

1. Dallas Works Summer Internship Program

• Organization: City of Dallas – Mayor’s Office
• Description: Eight-week paid summer internship program connecting Dallas high school students with careers in industries where they’ve expressed interest. Includes Internship Prep Bootcamp teaching resume building, interview skills, workplace etiquette, and professional development. Students placed with employers across healthcare, technology, business, government, and nonprofit sectors.
• Eligibility: Dallas ISD students and Dallas residents, ages 16-18, current high school juniors and seniors
• Duration: 8 weeks (June 30 – August 8, 2026)
• Compensation: Paid – $13-15/hour depending on placement
• Deadline: April 28, 2026
• Apply: Dallas Works Website

2. UT Dallas Computer Science Research Program

• Organization: University of Texas at Dallas – K-12 Outreach
• Description: Eight-week intensive research experience where high school students work in university labs on cutting-edge computer science projects including artificial intelligence, machine learning, cybersecurity, robotics, data science, and software engineering. Students present research findings at symposium.
• Eligibility: High school students (all grades), strong computer science/math background, competitive application
• Duration: 8 weeks (June 9 – August 1, 2026)
• Compensation: Paid stipend – varies by lab
• Deadline: March 15, 2026 (may close earlier if filled)
• Apply: Contact [email protected]

3. UT Southwestern Medical Center High School Programs

• Organization: UT Southwestern – Office of Student Empowerment
• Description: Multiple programs including Psychiatry Internship (2-week intensive showing mental health careers), biomedical research opportunities, and clinical observation experiences. Work with clinician-scientists, attend interactive sessions, and explore healthcare careers at top-ranked medical center.
• Eligibility: Rising 10th-12th graders and rising college first-years, strong science interest
• Duration: 2 weeks to full summer depending on program
• Compensation: Most programs unpaid (school credit available)
• Deadline: February 1, 2026
• Apply: UT Southwestern Website

4. Dallas ISD Internship Program

• Organization: Dallas Independent School District – Workforce Development
• Description: School-coordinated paid internships placing Dallas ISD students with industry partners in their program of study. Students engage in real-world business activities and projects across healthcare, IT, engineering, business, hospitality, and skilled trades. Designed to complement Career and Technical Education (CTE) pathways.
• Eligibility: Dallas ISD high school students (all grades), enrolled in CTE program preferred
• Duration: 4-12 weeks depending on placement (summer or semester)
• Compensation: Paid – varies by employer, $12-16/hour typical
• Deadline: Rolling through school counselors
• Apply: Contact Dallas ISD CTE Office or school counselor

5. Southwest Airlines High School Internship Program

• Organization: Southwest Airlines – Campus Reach
• Description: Paid eight-week summer internship at Southwest headquarters providing high school students hands-on insight into aviation industry. Rotate through departments including operations, customer service, marketing, flight operations, and maintenance. Emphasizes education importance and career opportunities beyond diploma.
• Eligibility: Dallas-area high school students (grades 11-12), strong academic record, interest in aviation/travel
• Duration: 8 weeks (Summer)
• Compensation: Paid – $15-17/hour
• Deadline: February 15, 2026
• Apply: Southwest Careers Website

6. Parkland Health Dallas Works Partnership

• Organization: Parkland Health & Hospital System
• Description: Healthcare internship through Dallas Works program at Dallas County’s public hospital. Students work in clinical support, patient services, community health, administration, and public health departments. Exposure to healthcare careers serving diverse patient populations.
• Eligibility: Dallas Works participants, ages 16-18, interest in healthcare
• Duration: 8 weeks (Summer through Dallas Works)
• Compensation: Paid – $14-16/hour
• Deadline: April 28, 2026 (through Dallas Works application)
• Apply: Parkland Website

7. Perot Museum ConnecTEEN Volunteer Program

• Organization: Perot Museum of Nature and Science
• Description: Summer volunteer program for students interested in serving community and connecting with STEM professionals. Application-only program where teens engage with museum guests through hands-on activities in 11 permanent exhibit halls. Learn museum education and science communication.
• Eligibility: High school students (ages 14-18), Dallas area, application required
• Duration: 6-8 weeks (Summer), flexible schedules
• Compensation: Volunteer (unpaid) – certificate and museum membership provided
• Deadline: March 1, 2026
• Apply: Perot Museum Volunteer Page

8. Dallas Zoo Zoo Crew Teen Volunteer Program

• Organization: Dallas Zoo
• Description: Teen volunteer program providing opportunities to learn about and work in various zoo areas. Activities include animal care support, education programs, visitor services, conservation projects, and behind-the-scenes experiences. Can lead to paid internship positions.
• Eligibility: Ages 13-17, Dallas area residents
• Duration: Academic year or summer, 4-8 hours/week minimum
• Compensation: Initially volunteer; eligible for paid internships after completion
• Deadline: Rolling admissions with priority deadlines February 1 & June 1
• Apply: Dallas Zoo Website

9. Texas Instruments Technical Internship

• Organization: Texas Instruments – Dallas Campus
• Description: Engineering and technical internship at global semiconductor company. High school seniors and college students work on real projects in chip design, manufacturing, software engineering, applications engineering, and product testing. Exposure to cutting-edge technology development.
• Eligibility: High school seniors, strong STEM grades (3.5+ GPA), calculus/physics coursework
• Duration: 10-12 weeks (Summer)
• Compensation: Paid – $18-22/hour
• Deadline: January 15, 2026
• Apply: TI Careers Website

10. Dallas County Health & Human Services Internship

• Organization: Dallas County DCHHS
• Description: Public health internship with county health department. Work on disease prevention, health education, epidemiology, environmental health, community health programs, and emergency preparedness. Meaningful public service experience in health equity.
• Eligibility: High school seniors & college students, 3.0+ GPA, Dallas County residents preferred
• Duration: 8-10 weeks (Summer) or semester
• Compensation: Paid – $13-14/hour
• Deadline: March 15, 2026
• Apply: Dallas County DCHHS Website

11. American Airlines Corporate Internship

• Organization: American Airlines – Headquarters
• Description: Corporate internship at world’s largest airline headquartered in Fort Worth (DFW area). Limited high school positions in business operations, customer experience, digital technology, and marketing. Most positions for college students but exceptional high school seniors considered.
• Eligibility: High school seniors with exceptional academics, Fort Worth/Dallas area, 3.7+ GPA
• Duration: 10-12 weeks (Summer)
• Compensation: Paid – $20-24/hour + relocation assistance if eligible
• Deadline: December 15, 2025
• Apply: American Airlines Careers

12. Dallas Museum of Art Teen Programs

• Organization: Dallas Museum of Art
• Description: Museum education and visitor services programs for teens. Opportunities include teen council, gallery interpretation, special event support, and educational programming assistance. Learn about art history, museum operations, and public engagement in Arts District.
• Eligibility: Ages 14-18, Dallas area, interest in arts/museums
• Duration: Academic year or summer, 6-10 hours/week
• Compensation: Paid – $12-13/hour for select positions; many volunteer
• Deadline: September 2025 & February 2026
• Apply: Visit Dallas Museum of Art Website

13. Dallas Arts District Internships

• Organization: Dallas Arts District – Multiple Organizations
• Description: Arts and culture internships with various Arts District institutions including AT&T Performing Arts Center, Nasher Sculpture Center, and district management. Work in arts administration, marketing, event coordination, and community engagement.
• Eligibility: High school juniors/seniors, interest in arts management/culture
• Duration: Semester or summer, 10-15 hours/week
• Compensation: Varies – some paid ($12-14/hour), others unpaid with stipend
• Deadline: Rolling by organization
• Apply: Dallas Arts District Website

14. Workforce Solutions Greater Dallas Youth Program

• Organization: Workforce Solutions – WIOA Youth Services
• Description: Comprehensive workforce development program connecting young people with employers across Dallas County. Provides paid work experience, occupational skills training, GED support, career counseling, and job placement for eligible youth.
• Eligibility: Ages 14-24, meets income eligibility or barriers to employment
• Duration: Year-round, varies by placement
• Compensation: Paid – varies by employer
• Deadline: Rolling admissions
• Apply: Contact Workforce Solutions Greater Dallas

15. Dallas Public Library Teen Programs

• Organization: Dallas Public Library – Multiple Branches
• Description: Library services, technology assistance, youth programming, and literacy support positions. Help with children’s programs, computer lab assistance, homework help, and community outreach at library branches citywide.
• Eligibility: Ages 14-18, Dallas residents, library card required
• Duration: School year or summer, 6-12 hours/week
• Compensation: Paid – $11-12/hour
• Deadline: June 2025 & January 2026
• Apply: Visit local Dallas Public Library branch

---

How to Apply for Internships in Dallas

Successfully securing internships for high school students in Dallas requires strategic planning and thorough preparation. Here’s your complete guide to navigating the application process in Texas’s third-largest city.

Application Methods

Online Application Portals (Most Common)

Most Dallas 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: Dallas Works, UT Dallas Research, UT Southwestern, Texas Instruments, American Airlines, Southwest Airlines, Dallas County DCHHS

Through School Counselors and Dallas ISD

Many programs coordinate through Dallas Independent School District:

• 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 school nominations
• Access Dallas ISD CTE Office for coordinated internship placements
• Obtain work permits through school (required for students under 18)

Programs coordinating through schools: Dallas ISD Internship Program, some Dallas Works placements, CTE pathway internships

Direct Contact Methods

Smaller 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: Perot Museum, Dallas Zoo, Dallas Museum of Art, Arts District organizations, library branches

Required Documents Checklist

Prepare these materials before starting applications:

□ Resume – One page highlighting academics, activities, volunteer work, leadership, and prior employment. Students exploring other Texas opportunities should review internships for high school students in Houston for additional 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 Dallas/Texas residency (for programs with geographic requirements)

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

□ Portfolio/Code Samples – For tech positions (UT Dallas, Texas Instruments), submit coding projects or technical work

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

Application Timeline

September – October: Research programs across Dallas metro and begin preparation. Students considering other major cities should explore internships for high school students in Austin or internships for high school students in San Antonio for additional Texas opportunities.

November – December: Very early deadline: American Airlines (December 15). Finalize resume and cover letter templates. Request recommendation letters before winter break. Meet with Dallas ISD counselors for CTE pathway guidance. For Fort Worth students, explore internships for high school students in Fort Worth.

January: Early deadlines begin: Texas Instruments (January 15). Submit applications early as tech companies fill quickly. Students exploring other regions should consider internships for high school students in Colorado.

February: Major deadlines: UT Southwestern (February 1), Southwest Airlines (February 15), Dallas Zoo priority deadline (February 1). Prepare for interviews as notifications begin arriving. For East Coast opportunities, explore internships for high school students in Brooklyn.

March: Peak application season: Perot Museum (March 1), UT Dallas (March 15), Dallas County DCHHS (March 15). Complete all remaining applications. Students considering Southwest programs should review internships for high school students in Phoenix.

April: Final deadline: Dallas Works (April 28). Most positions filled by early May. For Ohio opportunities, explore internships for high school students in Cleveland.

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

Tips for Stronger Applications

Emphasize Dallas/Texas Connection: Many programs prioritize local residents. Highlight your ties to Dallas—neighborhood, years in city, community involvement, knowledge of Dallas culture and history. Reference specific Dallas characteristics (diverse economy, strong business climate, Texas values) to demonstrate authentic connection.

Demonstrate Field-Specific Interest: Research organizations thoroughly. For STEM programs (UT Dallas, Texas Instruments), mention relevant computer science or engineering coursework. For healthcare (UT Southwestern, Parkland), discuss biology and interest in medicine. For aviation (Southwest, American), highlight interest in travel industry and operations. For arts (DMA, Arts District), share creative portfolio.

Highlight Texas Work Ethic: Dallas employers value strong work ethic, reliability, professionalism, and results-oriented mindset. Emphasize dependability through attendance records, long-term commitments, and examples of exceeding expectations.

Address Dallas’s Growth: Dallas is one of America’s fastest-growing cities with diverse economy. Programs value adaptability, innovation, and understanding of dynamic business environment. Share your excitement about contributing to Dallas’s continued growth.

Quantify Your Achievements: Use specific numbers. Replace “science fair participant” with “designed experiment testing water quality that placed 2nd at regional science fair among 45 competitors.” Change “volunteered at hospital” to “completed 150+ volunteer hours assisting 400+ patients at medical center over 18 months.”

Apply Strategically Across Selectivity Levels: Competition varies widely. Apply to 10-12 programs spanning highly selective (Texas Instruments, American Airlines, UT Dallas Research), moderately competitive (Dallas Works, Southwest, UT Southwestern), and accessible (Perot Museum, Dallas Zoo, library positions, volunteer programs).

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

Leverage Dallas ISD Resources: Dallas ISD CTE Office coordinates internships and provides application support. Use these free resources including resume reviews, interview preparation, and direct employer connections.

Interview Preparation

Many competitive Dallas 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 Dallas?”
• Prepare 2-3 thoughtful questions about responsibilities, mentorship, or professional development
• Dress professionally (business casual minimum; Texas professional standards)
• For video interviews, test technology, ensure good lighting, and a clean background
• Arrive 15-20 minutes early for in-person interviews (Dallas traffic is heavy during rush hours)
• Send thank-you email within 24 hours

Students considering opportunities in other metropolitan areas should review internships for high school students in Charlotte, internships for high school students in Cincinnati, or internships for high school students in Buffalo.

External Resources

Workforce Solutions Greater Dallas
Free career counseling, job placement, and workforce development – wfsdallas.com

Dallas ISD Career & Technical Education
School-coordinated internships and career pathways – dallasisd.org/cte

City of Dallas Year of Youth
Youth programs, employment opportunities, and civic engagement – dallascityhall.com

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 Dallas?

Yes, approximately 75-80% of structured Dallas high school internship programs offer monetary compensation ranging from $11-24/hour. Paid opportunities include American Airlines ($20-24/hour), Texas Instruments ($18-22/hour), Southwest Airlines ($15-17/hour), Dallas Works ($13-15/hour), Parkland Health ($14-16/hour), and Dallas ISD placements ($12-16/hour). Texas minimum wage is $7.25/hour (federal), but reputable youth programs typically pay $12-15/hour minimum. Corporate positions at Fortune 500 companies offer highest compensation.

When should I apply for summer internships in Dallas?

Apply between December and April, with most deadlines in January-March. Very early deadlines include American Airlines (December 15) and Texas Instruments (January 15). Peak season is February-March with UT Southwestern (February 1), Southwest Airlines (February 15), Perot Museum (March 1), and UT Dallas (March 15). Latest deadline is Dallas Works (April 28). Rolling programs like Dallas ISD internships, Workforce Solutions, and library positions accept applications year-round. Tech and corporate positions fill fastest.

Do I need work experience to get a Dallas internship?

No, most programs are designed for students new to professional work. Programs like Dallas Works, Dallas ISD internships, Perot Museum ConnecTEEN, Dallas Zoo Zoo Crew, and library positions welcome first-time workers with training provided. However, highly competitive programs (Texas Instruments, American Airlines, UT Dallas Research) receive applications from students with strong academic records (3.5+ GPA), relevant coursework, and demonstrated interest through school clubs or personal projects. Highlight transferable skills from academics, activities, volunteer work, or leadership roles.

What parts of Dallas have the most internship opportunities?

Downtown Dallas and Uptown (corporate headquarters, city government, arts district) offer highest concentration. Medical District (UT Southwestern, Parkland Health) provides healthcare opportunities. North Dallas and Richardson (Texas Instruments, telecom companies) offer technology positions. Love Field area (Southwest Airlines headquarters) has aviation opportunities. DFW Airport area in Fort Worth (American Airlines) extends opportunities to western suburbs. DART rail system connects major employment centers, though service limitations affect some suburban locations.

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

Both exist. Approximately 80% of Dallas programs operate summers (June-August) for 6-10 weeks full-time. School-year options include Dallas Zoo Zoo Crew (year-round), Dallas Museum of Art teen programs (academic year), library positions (year-round, 6-12 hours/week), Dallas ISD semester internships, and some Workforce Solutions placements. School-year internships typically require 8-15 hours weekly after school or weekends. Most competitive research and corporate programs (UT Dallas, Texas Instruments, American Airlines) operate summer-only due to full-time requirements.

How competitive are Dallas internship programs?

Competition varies significantly. Highly selective programs like American Airlines, Texas Instruments, and UT Dallas Research accept 10-20% of applicants. UT Southwestern, Southwest Airlines, and specialized healthcare programs are moderately competitive at 25-35% acceptance. City programs (Dallas Works, Dallas County DCHHS) accept 40-60% of qualified applicants. Accessible programs like Perot Museum ConnecTEEN, Dallas Zoo volunteer program, library positions, and Workforce Solutions accept most students meeting basic requirements. Dallas’s educated, ambitious student population creates competition even for accessible positions.

What industries are strongest for Dallas high school internships?

Dallas’s top internship industries align with city’s economic strengths: Technology/Telecommunications (Texas Instruments, tech startups, UT Dallas programs), Aviation/Aerospace (American Airlines, Southwest Airlines), Healthcare/Medical Research (UT Southwestern, Parkland Health, Dallas County DCHHS), Business/Finance (corporate headquarters), Education/Museums (Perot Museum, Dallas Museum of Art, Dallas Zoo), Government/Public Service (Dallas Works, city programs), and Arts/Culture (Dallas Arts District). Technology and aviation offer highest compensation; medical research provides strongest college application benefits; city programs offer most accessible entry points.

Can I earn school credit for Dallas internships?

Yes, most Dallas-area high schools offer academic credit through Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs. Dallas ISD has robust CTE pathways with dedicated internship coordinators. Requirements typically include: counselor pre-approval, minimum hours (135-180 hours for full elective credit), reflection journals or essays, supervisor evaluations, and sometimes final presentations. Both paid and unpaid internships may qualify. Suburban districts (Plano ISD, Richardson ISD, Garland ISD, Irving ISD) have similar programs. Check with your school’s CTE coordinator or work-based learning specialist before applying.

How do I manage transportation for Dallas internships?

Transportation requires planning as Dallas is car-dependent with limited public transit. DART: Light rail and bus system covers main corridors; useful for Downtown, Uptown, Medical District, Arts District, and some North Dallas locations. Youth GoPass offers reduced fares. Personal Vehicle: Most students need cars or family transportation, especially for suburban positions (Texas Instruments in North Dallas, DFW area employers). Programs providing support: Some offer parking passes or DART passes. Consider proximity when applying—positions requiring 45+ minute commutes without reliable transportation challenging to sustain. Dallas traffic is heavy during rush hours (7-9am, 4-7pm).

Do Dallas programs accept students from Fort Worth and surrounding suburbs?

Yes, most Dallas programs accept students from DFW metroplex including Fort Worth, Arlington, Plano, Richardson, Irving, Garland, Frisco, and other suburbs. Some programs specifically require Dallas city residency (Dallas Works) or Dallas ISD enrollment (some Dallas ISD placements). Corporate and university programs (American Airlines, Texas Instruments, UT Dallas, UT Southwestern) welcome applicants from throughout metroplex. Fort Worth students should also explore Fort Worth-specific opportunities. Students from suburbs should verify residency requirements and address transportation plans in applications, mentioning reliable access via car or DART.

---

Explore More Internship Opportunities

Expand Your Search Beyond Dallas

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

• Internships for High School Students in Houston – Texas, energy capital and medical center
• Internships for High School Students in Austin – Texas tech hub and state capital
• Internships for High School Students in San Antonio – South Texas healthcare and military
• Internships for High School Students in Fort Worth – Western DFW opportunities
• Internships for High School Students in Phoenix – Southwest aerospace and technology
• Internships for High School Students in Charlotte – Southeast banking hub
• 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 Brooklyn – New York City borough
• 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 Dallas provides transformative opportunities in one of America’s most dynamic and fastest-growing metropolitan areas. From cutting-edge computer science research at UT Dallas to healthcare innovation at UT Southwestern Medical Center, aviation careers with Southwest and American Airlines, accessible youth employment through Dallas Works, and civic engagement across city government, Dallas offers unparalleled career exploration for ambitious Texas teens.

Dallas’s unique combination of Fortune 500 headquarters, world-class medical facilities, premier research universities, thriving arts scene, and commitment to youth workforce development creates pathways for students from every neighborhood—whether you’re from Oak Cliff, North Dallas, East Dallas, Pleasant Grove, or surrounding suburbs across the DFW metroplex.

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 the metroplex. Customize each application thoughtfully, emphasizing your specific interests, Dallas connections, and career goals. Prepare professionally for interviews, leverage Dallas ISD CTE resources, and remember that persistence and Texas determination pay off.

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

Questions about applications or need guidance? Contact your school counselor, reach out to program coordinators listed above, visit Workforce Solutions Greater Dallas, or connect with Dallas ISD Career & Technical Education Office for free career support services available to all Dallas-area students.