Top 15 Best High School Internships in Omaha, NE 2026
Introduction
Discovering internships for high school students in Omaha opens doors to exceptional career exploration opportunities across Nebraska’s largest city. From Fortune 500 insurance giants like Mutual of Omaha to cutting-edge technology programs at the University of Nebraska Omaha, community-focused initiatives through STEP-UP Omaha, and healthcare opportunities at world-renowned Boys Town National Research Hospital, Omaha offers diverse paid internships and summer jobs for teens designed specifically for high school students.
Whether you’re passionate about information technology and cybersecurity at UNO, financial services at Mutual of Omaha, youth development through Urban League programs, or scientific research at Creighton University, Omaha delivers comprehensive student opportunities that strengthen college applications and launch professional careers. The city’s combination of Midwestern values, corporate headquarters, premier healthcare institutions, and accessible youth employment programs creates an unmatched landscape for ambitious teens seeking real-world work experience.
Top High School Internship Programs in Omaha 2026
Below are 15 verified and current internship opportunities for high school students in Omaha. All information has been confirmed for the 2026 application cycle with updated deadlines and program details.
1. UNO Information Science & Technology Summer Internship
- Organization: University of Nebraska Omaha
- Description: Hands-on technology internship in UNO labs. Work with faculty and students on robotics, cybersecurity, software engineering, bioinformatics, app development, gaming, and IT innovation projects.
- Eligibility: High school students (all grades), strong interest in technology
- Duration: 6-8 weeks (June-July)
- Compensation: Paid stipend – varies by project
- Deadline: March 1, 2026
- Apply: Apply Here
2. STEP-UP Omaha Employment Program
- Organization: Urban League of Nebraska & Empowerment Network
- Description: Comprehensive paid summer employment program connecting Omaha youth with local employers. Includes job readiness training, workplace skills development, and career exploration across multiple industries.
- Eligibility: Ages 14-24, Omaha-area residents, priority to underserved communities
- Duration: 6-8 weeks (Summer), varies by placement
- Compensation: Paid – $13-15/hour, earn up to $1,800
- Deadline: February 15, 2026
- Apply: Apply Here
3. Mutual of Omaha Avenue Scholars IT Internship
- Organization: Mutual of Omaha – Fortune 500 Insurance
- Description: Information technology internship for Avenue Scholars entering senior year. Work on AI research, digital transformation, technology implementation, and business systems in professional corporate environment.
- Eligibility: Current Avenue Scholars, entering grade 12, good academic standing
- Duration: 10 weeks (June-August)
- Compensation: Paid – $18-20/hour
- Deadline: January 31, 2026
- Apply: Visit Mutual of Omaha Careers
4. Boys Town National Research Hospital Internship
- Organization: Boys Town National Research Hospital
- Description: Biomedical research internship at world-renowned pediatric research hospital. Students work in laboratories studying hearing, speech, vision, genetics, and developmental disorders under scientist mentorship.
- Eligibility: Grades 11-12, 3.5+ GPA, strong science background
- Duration: 8 weeks (Summer)
- Compensation: Paid stipend – $2,500
- Deadline: February 15, 2026
- Apply: Contact Boys Town Research
5. Omaha Parks & Recreation Youth Employment
- Organization: City of Omaha Parks Department
- Description: Summer employment as camp counselors, lifeguards, park maintenance, and recreation assistants. Work at city pools, parks, and recreational facilities serving Omaha communities.
- Eligibility: Ages 15-19, Omaha residents, lifeguard certification for pool positions
- Duration: 8-12 weeks (June-August), flexible schedules
- Compensation: Paid – $13-14/hour
- Deadline: March 31, 2026
- Apply: Apply Here
6. Creighton University Summer Research Program
- Organization: Creighton University – Multiple Departments
- Description: Academic research internship at private Jesuit university. Students work with faculty on research projects in sciences, health professions, business, and social sciences.
- Eligibility: Grades 11-12, 3.3+ GPA, Nebraska residents preferred
- Duration: 8 weeks (June-July)
- Compensation: Paid – $15/hour
- Deadline: February 1, 2026
- Apply: Contact Creighton Admissions
7. YMCA of Greater Omaha Youth Programs
- Organization: YMCA – Multiple Omaha Locations
- Description: Youth development positions including camp counselors, childcare assistants, sports coaches, and program leaders at YMCA branches across Omaha metro area.
- Eligibility: Ages 16+, high school students (all grades)
- Duration: Summer or academic year, flexible hours
- Compensation: Paid – $12-14/hour
- Deadline: Rolling admissions
- Apply: Apply Here
8. Nebraska Department of Health & Human Services Internship
- Organization: Nebraska DHHS – State Government
- Description: State government internship in public health, human services, social work, and policy development. Work on programs serving Nebraska families, children, and vulnerable populations.
- Eligibility: High school seniors, 3.0+ GPA, Nebraska residents
- Duration: 8-10 weeks (Summer) or semester
- Compensation: Paid – $14/hour
- Deadline: March 1, 2026
- Apply: Apply Here
9. Charles Schwab Schwintern Program
- Organization: Charles Schwab – Omaha Campus
- Description: Financial services internship at investment firm. High school students work on real business projects in client services, technology, operations, and marketing with mentorship from senior leaders.
- Eligibility: Grades 11-12, 3.2+ GPA, strong academic record
- Duration: 10 weeks (June-August)
- Compensation: Paid – $19-21/hour
- Deadline: January 15, 2026
- Apply: Apply Here
10. Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium Youth Programs
- Organization: Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo
- Description: Zoo education, animal care, conservation, and visitor services internship at world-class zoo and aquarium. Work with education staff on programming and behind-the-scenes animal care experiences.
- Eligibility: Ages 16+, grades 10-12, animal/science interest
- Duration: 8-10 weeks (Summer)
- Compensation: Paid – $13/hour
- Deadline: February 28, 2026
- Apply: Visit Zoo Website
11. Nebraska Workforce Development Youth Program
- Organization: Nebraska Department of Labor – WIOA
- Description: Statewide youth employment and training program providing paid work experience, occupational skills training, tutoring, and career exploration for eligible young people.
- Eligibility: Ages 14-24, meets income eligibility or barriers to employment
- Duration: Varies by placement, year-round
- Compensation: Paid – varies by employer
- Deadline: Rolling admissions
- Apply: Apply Here
12. First National Bank of Omaha Internship
- Organization: First National Bank – Multiple Locations
- Description: Banking and financial services internship at regional bank headquarters. Students work in retail banking, digital banking, marketing, operations, or technology departments.
- Eligibility: Grades 11-12, 3.0+ GPA, strong communication skills
- Duration: 8-10 weeks (Summer)
- Compensation: Paid – $16-18/hour
- Deadline: February 15, 2026
- Apply: Contact FNBO HR Department
13. Omaha Public Library Teen Programs
- Organization: Omaha Public Library – Multiple Branches
- Description: Library services, technology assistance, youth programming, and community outreach positions. Help with children’s programs, digital literacy training, and library operations.
- Eligibility: Ages 14-18, Omaha residents
- Duration: Summer or school year, 8-15 hrs/week
- Compensation: Paid – $12/hour
- Deadline: March 15, 2026
- Apply: Visit Library Website
14. Children’s Hospital & Medical Center Volunteer/Internship
- Organization: Children’s Nebraska
- Description: Healthcare exploration through volunteer program with pathway to paid internship. Work in patient support, administrative services, and clinical observation under supervision.
- Eligibility: Ages 15-18, grades 10-12, 3.0+ GPA
- Duration: Summer or academic year, 4-8 hrs/week
- Compensation: Initially volunteer, internship positions paid $14/hour
- Deadline: Rolling admissions
- Apply: Contact Volunteer Services
15. Metropolitan Community College Career Readiness
- Organization: Metro Community College – Youth Programs
- Description: Pre-collegiate career exploration workshops and short-term internships connecting high school students with local employers across healthcare, manufacturing, IT, and business sectors.
- Eligibility: High school students (all grades), Omaha-metro area
- Duration: Varies by program, 2-8 weeks
- Compensation: Some paid positions available
- Deadline: Rolling throughout year
- Apply: Contact MCC Student Services
How to Apply for Internships in Omaha
Successfully securing internships for high school students in Omaha requires strategic planning and thorough preparation. Here’s your complete guide to navigating the application process across Nebraska’s largest city.
Application Methods
Online Application Portals (Most Common)
Most Omaha 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: UNO Information Science, Mutual of Omaha, Charles Schwab, STEP-UP Omaha, Nebraska DHHS, City of Omaha positions
Through School Counselors and Programs
Many Omaha programs partner with high schools and community organizations:
- 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 programs like Avenue Scholars for specialized opportunities
- Obtain work permits through school (required for students under 16)
Programs coordinating through schools/organizations: Mutual of Omaha Avenue Scholars, Metropolitan Community College partnerships, some STEP-UP placements
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 interviews
Programs accepting direct contact: Boys Town Research Hospital, Creighton University, Henry Doorly Zoo, First National Bank, Children’s Hospital, Omaha Public Library
Required Documents Checklist
Prepare these materials before starting applications:
□ Resume – One page highlighting academics, activities, volunteer work, leadership, and prior employment. Students exploring major Midwest opportunities should review internships for high school students in Chicago for additional urban 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 Nebraska/Omaha residency (for programs with geographic requirements)
□ Work Permit – Nebraska requires employment certificates for workers under 16; obtain from school with parent signature
□ Essays/Writing Samples – Some competitive programs request 300-500 word responses on career goals or challenges overcome
Application Timeline
September – October: Research programs across Omaha and begin preparation. Students considering surrounding regions should explore internships for high school students in Illinois or internships for high school students in Wisconsin for additional Midwest opportunities.
November – December: Finalize resume and cover letter templates. Request recommendation letters before winter break. Meet with counselors to obtain transcripts and discuss academic credit options.
January: Early deadlines begin: Charles Schwab (January 15), Mutual of Omaha Avenue Scholars (January 31). Submit applications early as competitive programs review on rolling basis. Students exploring tech opportunities should consider internships for high school students in San Francisco.
February: Major deadlines: Creighton University (February 1), Boys Town Research (February 15), STEP-UP Omaha (February 15), First National Bank (February 15), Henry Doorly Zoo (February 28). Prepare for interviews as notifications begin arriving.
March: Peak application season: UNO Information Science (March 1), Nebraska DHHS (March 1), Omaha Public Library (March 15), Omaha Parks & Recreation (March 31). Complete all remaining applications. For healthcare-focused opportunities, explore internships for high school students in Houston.
April: Most positions filled; focus on rolling admission programs like YMCA, Nebraska Workforce Development, and Metropolitan Community College. Students considering Sun Belt opportunities should review internships for high school students in Phoenix.
May – August: Attend orientation, finalize schedules, and begin summer internships across Omaha.
Tips for Stronger Applications
Emphasize Omaha/Nebraska Connection: Many programs prioritize local residents. Highlight your ties to Omaha—hometown neighborhoods, years in city, community involvement, family connections, or knowledge of local culture. Mention specific Omaha landmarks, events, or community characteristics to demonstrate authentic connection.
Demonstrate Field-Specific Interest: Research organizations thoroughly. For technology programs (UNO, Schwab), mention relevant computer science or STEM coursework. For financial services (Mutual of Omaha, First National Bank), discuss math skills and business interest. For healthcare programs (Boys Town, Children’s), highlight biology or health science classes.
Highlight Midwestern Work Ethic: Omaha employers value reliability, strong work ethic, teamwork, and practical skills. Emphasize dependability through perfect attendance records, commitment to activities over multiple years, and examples of seeing projects through to completion.
Quantify Your Achievements: Use specific numbers. Replace “member of debate team” with “competed in 8 debate tournaments, winning 3rd place at regional competition with 45 participating schools.” Change “volunteered at food bank” to “sorted and distributed food for 200+ families weekly over 12 months.”
Apply Strategically Across Selectivity Levels: Competition varies widely. Apply to 8-12 programs spanning highly selective (Mutual of Omaha, Charles Schwab, Boys Town Research), moderately competitive (UNO, Creighton, Henry Doorly Zoo), and accessible (STEP-UP, YMCA, Parks & Recreation, volunteer programs).
Customize Everything: Never submit identical applications. Tailor each cover letter referencing specific programs, Omaha connections, or organizational missions. Generic applications are immediately obvious to reviewers.
Address Transportation Logistics: Omaha public transportation is limited compared to larger cities. If applying to positions across metro area, address how you’ll manage transportation (personal vehicle, family transportation, carpool, bus routes). This shows practical thinking and reliability.
Interview Preparation
Many competitive Omaha programs conduct interviews:
- Research organization’s mission, recent news, and current projects
- Practice common questions: “Tell me about yourself,” “Why this internship?” “What are your strengths?”
- Prepare 2-3 thoughtful questions about responsibilities, mentorship, or skills development
- Dress professionally (business casual minimum)
- For video interviews, test technology, ensure good lighting and clean background
- Arrive 10-15 minutes early for in-person interviews
- Send thank-you email within 24 hours
Students considering opportunities in growing cities should review internships for high school students in Charlotte, internships for high school students in Austin, or internships for high school students in Atlanta.
External Resources
Nebraska Department of Labor – Youth Programs
State employment resources and WIOA youth initiatives – dol.nebraska.gov
Urban League of Nebraska
Community organization connecting youth with employment and development programs – urbanleagueneb.org
U.S. Department of Labor – Youth Rules
Federal guidance on child labor laws and teen employment rights – youthrules.gov
Metropolitan Community College Career Services
Free career counseling and job search assistance – mccneb.edu
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there paid internships for high school students in Omaha?
Yes, approximately 70-75% of structured Omaha high school internship programs offer monetary compensation ranging from $12-21/hour. Paid opportunities include Charles Schwab ($19-21/hour), Mutual of Omaha ($18-20/hour), First National Bank ($16-18/hour), UNO programs (stipends vary), and STEP-UP Omaha ($13-15/hour, up to $1,800 total). Nebraska minimum wage is $12/hour as of 2026, and most reputable youth programs meet or exceed this standard. Corporate internships at Fortune 500 companies typically offer higher compensation.
When should I apply for summer internships in Omaha?
Apply between January and March, with most deadlines in February. Early deadlines include Charles Schwab (January 15) and Mutual of Omaha Avenue Scholars (January 31). Peak season is February with programs like Creighton University (February 1), STEP-UP Omaha (February 15), Boys Town Research (February 15), and Henry Doorly Zoo (February 28). Late deadlines extend into March-April with City of Omaha positions. Rolling programs like YMCA, Nebraska Workforce Development, and volunteer opportunities accept applications year-round.
Do I need work experience to get an Omaha internship?
No, most programs are designed for students new to professional work. Programs like STEP-UP Omaha, YMCA positions, City of Omaha Parks & Recreation, and volunteer opportunities specifically welcome first-time workers with comprehensive training. Highlight transferable skills from school activities, volunteer work, sports, or academic achievements. Strong grades, teacher recommendations, and genuine enthusiasm outweigh lack of formal experience. STEP-UP program includes job readiness training for participants with no prior employment.
What parts of Omaha have the most internship opportunities?
Downtown Omaha and West Omaha offer the highest concentration due to corporate headquarters (Mutual of Omaha, First National Bank, TD Ameritrade, Union Pacific), UNO campus, and medical facilities. Midtown provides opportunities through Children’s Hospital, Creighton University, and Boys Town. North and South Omaha have excellent community-based programs through Urban League STEP-UP and city recreation centers. Suburban areas (Papillion, Bellevue, La Vista) offer fewer positions but include some regional employer programs.
Can I do internships during the school year or only summer?
Both exist. Approximately 75% of Omaha programs operate summers (June-August) for 6-10 weeks. School-year options include YMCA positions (year-round, flexible schedules), Children’s Hospital volunteer program, Omaha Public Library (school-year positions), Nebraska Workforce Development (year-round placements), and some UNO research projects. School-year internships typically require 8-15 hours weekly after school or weekends. Most competitive corporate programs (Mutual of Omaha, Charles Schwab, First National Bank) operate summer-only.
How competitive are Omaha internship programs?
Competition varies significantly. Highly selective programs like Charles Schwab, Mutual of Omaha Avenue Scholars, and Boys Town Research accept 15-25% of applicants. UNO programs, Creighton University, and major corporate internships are moderately competitive at 30-40% acceptance. City programs (STEP-UP, Parks & Recreation) and nonprofit positions accept 50-70% of qualified applicants. Accessible programs like YMCA, volunteer opportunities, and Nebraska Workforce Development accept most students meeting basic requirements.
What industries are strongest for Omaha high school internships?
Omaha’s top internship industries align with city’s economic strengths: Financial Services/Insurance (Mutual of Omaha, First National Bank, TD Ameritrade), Information Technology (UNO programs, Schwab technology, corporate IT), Healthcare (Boys Town Research, Children’s Hospital, Creighton health programs), Education/Youth Development (YMCA, library, parks), Government/Nonprofits (Nebraska DHHS, Urban League), and Agriculture/Food Processing (reflecting Nebraska economy). Financial services and technology offer highest compensation; healthcare and research provide strongest college application benefits.
Can I earn school credit for Omaha internships?
Yes, most Omaha-area high schools offer academic credit through Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs or work-based learning coordinators. Requirements typically include: counselor pre-approval, minimum hours (usually 90-180 hours depending on credit), reflection assignments or journals, supervisor evaluations, and sometimes final presentations. Both paid and unpaid internships may qualify. Omaha Public Schools, Millard Public Schools, and other districts have established CTE pathways. Check with your school counselor before applying to ensure positions meet credit requirements.
How do I manage transportation for Omaha internships?
Transportation requires planning as Omaha has limited public transit. Metro Transit: Bus system covers main corridors but limited routes and frequencies. Youth passes available but service doesn’t reach all suburbs. Personal Vehicle: Most students need cars or family transportation, especially for West Omaha, suburban, or multiple-location positions. Carpool: Coordinate with other interns or classmates. Consider proximity when applying—positions requiring 45+ minute commutes without reliable transportation are challenging. Downtown positions near UNO campus have best transit access. Some employers like STEP-UP program may help coordinate transportation for participants.
Do Omaha programs accept students from surrounding areas?
Yes, most programs accept students from greater Omaha metro including Council Bluffs (Iowa), Bellevue, Papillion, La Vista, Ralston, and other suburbs. Some programs specifically require Omaha city residency (City of Omaha Parks & Recreation, some STEP-UP placements), while others welcome regional applicants (UNO, Creighton, corporate programs). Lincoln students (45 minutes away) may face challenges with daily commutes. Always verify residency requirements. Students from Iowa or Kansas should mention cross-state commuting plans in applications. Programs operated by Nebraska state agencies typically require Nebraska residency.
Explore More Internship Opportunities
Expand Your Search Beyond Omaha
Looking for additional opportunities or considering programs in other regions? Explore these resources:
- Internships for High School Students in San Diego – West Coast biotech and research opportunities
- Internships for High School Students in Dallas – Texas business and corporate programs
- Internships for High School Students in Brooklyn – New York City borough opportunities
- Internships for High School Students in Baltimore – Mid-Atlantic healthcare and research
- Internships for High School Students in Buffalo – Upstate New York programs
- Internships for High School Students in Cleveland – Midwest healthcare and manufacturing
- Internships for High School Students in Broward County – South Florida opportunities
- 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
Final Thoughts
Securing internships for high school students in Omaha provides transformative opportunities in one of America’s most dynamic mid-sized cities. From groundbreaking technology innovation at the University of Nebraska Omaha to corporate excellence at Mutual of Omaha and Charles Schwab, biomedical research at Boys Town National Research Hospital, and community-focused development through STEP-UP Omaha, Nebraska’s largest city offers unmatched career exploration for ambitious teens.
Omaha’s unique combination of Fortune 500 headquarters, accessible youth employment programs, premier research institutions, and strong Midwestern values creates pathways for students from every neighborhood—whether you’re from North Omaha, West Omaha, midtown communities, or surrounding suburbs like Bellevue and Papillion.
Start your application process early—competitive programs review applications on rolling basis and fill positions quickly. Apply to 8-12 opportunities spanning different selectivity levels and industries. Customize each application thoughtfully, emphasizing your specific interests and Omaha connections. Prepare professionally for interviews, and remember that even if your first-choice program doesn’t work out, any internship experience accelerates professional development and strengthens college applications.
Ready to launch your career journey? Review the program table above, mark critical deadlines in your calendar, and begin preparing materials today. Omaha’s exceptional internship opportunities await motivated students ready to transform their career aspirations into reality in the heartland of America.
Questions about applications or need guidance? Contact your school counselor, reach out to program coordinators listed above, or visit the Urban League of Nebraska or Metropolitan Community College for free career support services available to all Omaha-area students.
