DRPA and PATCO Announce 2026 Paid Summer Internship Opportunities

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Released: 1/6/2026

DRPA and PATCO Announce 2026 Paid Summer Internship Opportunities

College students gain real-world experience supporting critical transportation and infrastructure operations

The Delaware River Port Authority (DRPA) and the Port Authority Transit Corporation (PATCO) are now accepting applications for their 2026 Paid Summer Internship Program, offering college students hands-on, real-world experience across a wide range of professional and operational disciplines.

Approximately 25 interns will be hired for summer 2026, with opportunities available in engineering, legal, finance, public safety, information services, and other administrative areas across both agencies. Interns will work full-time (40 hours per week) for 12 weeks, from June 1 through August 21, 2026, earning $19.00 to $26.00 per hour, depending on the position.

"Our Summer Internship Program reflects our commitment to developing the next generation of professionals," said Toni P. Brown, Chief Administrative Officer for DRPA and PATCO. "By providing hands-on experience, mentorship, and exposure to meaningful public-sector work, we allow interns to grow professionally while contributing to projects that directly serve the region."

In addition to competitive weekly compensation, interns receive free parking at all DRPA and PATCO facilities, complimentary DRPA bridge passage and PATCO transit service for commuting to and from work, and access to professional development, mentorship, and networking opportunities. The program is designed to provide meaningful, hands-on work experience in a collaborative environment where interns contribute to real projects with public impact.

The program has a strong track record of success. In summer 2025, DRPA and PATCO employed 43 interns, representing colleges and universities across Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, Tennessee, Georgia, Alabama, West Virginia, and Washington, D.C. Feedback from participants was overwhelmingly positive, with interns consistently citing the supportive work environment, meaningful assignments, and real-world responsibilities as highlights of their experience.

"Working in the Purchasing Department was a meaningful experience that had a lasting impact on me both professionally and personally," said Olivia P., 2025 Summer Intern. "I'm leaving with new skills, lasting memories, and a deep appreciation for everyone I had the opportunity to work with. It was an incredible summer, and I hope to carry forward everything I learned and make the team proud."

"My internship with DRPA and PATCO gave me hands-on experience in cybersecurity and IT operations, from supporting employees through Help Desk services to working with enterprise security tools and participating in cybersecurity and risk management discussions," said Bryson P., 2025 Summer Intern. "It was a valuable opportunity to apply what I'm learning in the classroom to real-world systems and challenges, and it reinforced my passion for cybersecurity and IT while highlighting the critical role technology plays in protecting and connecting the communities served by DRPA and PATCO."

In addition to the internship program, DRPA and PATCO are introducing a new Summer Work Program for 2026, focused on supporting operational and field-based roles across the organization. Positions will support functions such as toll operations, groundskeeping and landscaping, custodial services, fleet support, and other operational assignments. The program will rely on new partnerships with area trade schools, though college students are welcome to apply. It is open to graduating high school seniors entering trade school in the fall of 2026, with a minimum age of 18. Job postings for the Summer Work Program are expected to go live in late January or early February 2026.

"Our internship program is about more than just summer employment. It's about preparing students to lead, contribute, and succeed," said John T. Hanson, CEO of DRPA and President of PATCO. "We're proud of the impact our interns make each year, and we look forward to welcoming the next group of students and the talent, enthusiasm, and fresh perspective they will bring to DRPA and PATCO."

Applications for the 2026 Summer Internship Program are open through January 14, 2026, and interested candidates can find additional information and apply at www.drpa.org/careers.

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