Temporary Student Employment Program


The International Trade Administration (ITA) regularly utilizes the services of student employment based upon management request. The work for ITA is varied. It may entail advising on international economic policy, administering international trade treaties, monitoring import and exports, promoting exports, and many other trade-related functions. An article further describing the functions of ITA is enclosed for your review. The Student Temporary Employment Program (STEP) is an established program which provide students with flexible temporary employment allowing students to earn a salary while continuing academic studies and providing an opportunity to work in a Federal agency. A student is defined as one who is enrolled or has been accepted for enrollment during the upcoming quarter or semester on at least a half-time basis in an accredited high school, technical or vocational school, 2 year or 4 year college or university, graduate or professional school.

Appointments are limited to one year or less but may be extended provided initial eligibility is met. Students may work full-time or part-time schedules. There are no limitations on the number of hours a student can work per week, but the student's work schedule should not interfere with the student's academic schedule. STEP employees are ineligible for retirement coverage and life insurance. After 1 year of current continuous employment, STEP employees may enroll in health benefits for which they must pay the full premium. STEP employees are eligible for annual and sick leave.

To be eligible for the Student Temporary Employment Program, the student must be a U.S. citizen and currently enrolled in an accredited academic degree program. To apply, students must complete the packet of forms listed below:


Return the completed forms to:
		U.S. Department of Commerce/ITA
		14th & Constitution Ave, NW RM 7417
		Washington, DC 20230
		Attn: STEP Coordinator 

If you have any questions, you may contact (202) 482-3301.