Top 10 Tech Internships Offered in Durham

Durham is becoming a major tech hub, with IBM, Cisco, and Red Hat already setting up shop here.

The sector saw a crazy 28% job growth between 2017 and 2022, blowing past the national average. Scoring a tech internship in this city is the golden ticket to kickstart your career.

These gigs let you:

• Get hands-on with the latest tools and tech
• Build a network of professionals who can hook you up with references
• Experience the company culture and see how things really operate
• Potentially land a full-time job after graduation

According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers, "internship experience is the key factor" for scoring job offers.

We're breaking down the top 10 tech internships in Durham, covering the deets on applications, roles, and major perks to help you make the best move for your future in this booming scene.

Let's be real here, landing a sick tech internship can make or break your future career. That's why I went all out to find the juiciest opportunities in Durham, NC. I didn't just look at the surface-level stuff, but dug deep into what really matters - learning, company rep, and that cash money.

Check it out:

First up, I hit up the tried-and-true sources like Glassdoor reviews from current and former interns, university career rankings, and industry reports.

These gave me the full scoop on company culture, mentorship programs, and compensation levels. With this intel, I assigned scores based on learning opportunities (40%), company reputation (30%), and that all-important cash (20%).

A standout internship would absolutely crush it in the learning department with dope mentors and mind-bending projects.

If it's at a big-name company everyone recognizes, even better. And of course, gotta get that bread too - a solid paycheck is a major key. With high scores across the board, an internship like that would easily make the cut.

I made sure to factor in those little extras that separate the good from the great.

Things like post-internship hiring potential, mentorship programs that go the extra mile, and projects that let you get hands-on experience with cutting-edge tech.

After all, an internship is about more than just a line on your resume - it's a chance to truly level up your skills and make connections that could change your life.

Check out Cisco's internship program - it's straight fire! As one of the biggest tech companies out there, they offer dope opportunities to get real hands-on experience across a bunch of domains like software engineering, cybersecurity, data science, and more.

The application process is pretty straightforward - just hit up their website, find an internship that vibes with your skills and interests, and submit your application with a resume and cover letter.

But the real kicker is the perks you get as an intern.

Not only do they pay well and offer benefits, but you'll also get mentored by experienced pros at Cisco, work on legit projects with cutting-edge tech, and even have a chance to score a full-time gig after the internship.

Plus, they've got a ton of resources to help you network and develop your career. One former intern said it was an "invaluable experience" that prepped them for success in the tech world.

Cisco even has specialized internships like Security Engineer where you'll be working on protecting their products and customers from cyber threats.

Sounds intense, right? But that's the kind of real-world experience you can't get in a classroom. So if you're looking to level up your skills and get a foot in the door at a major tech company, Cisco's internship program is definitely worth checking out.

Durham, North Carolina, is a tech hotspot, and IBM's massive presence here proves it. The tech powerhouse has a major footprint in the area, including their prestigious IBM Research division.

Scoring an internship with IBM Research is like hitting the jackpot for any aspiring techie – you get to work on mind-blowing projects and gain insane hands-on experience.

The IBM Research internship covers a wild range of cutting-edge focus areas, like:

• Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Cognitive Computing: Interns develop advanced AI systems, natural language processing, and machine learning algorithms that'll blow your mind.
• Quantum Computing: Get ready to dive into the futuristic realm of quantum computing, exploring its potential applications and pushing the limits of computing power.
• Blockchain Technology: Immerse yourself in the world of blockchain, discovering its game-changing use cases in supply chain management, finance, and data security.
• Cloud Computing and Cybersecurity: Opportunities to work on cloud infrastructure, security protocols, and data privacy solutions that keep everything safe and secure.

To even have a shot at this insane IBM Research internship in Durham, you gotta have a killer academic record in computer science, engineering, or a related field.

The application process involves submitting your resume, transcripts, and a cover letter that'll make them drool. IBM values intellectual curiosity, problem-solving skills, and a genuine passion for innovation.

If you manage to snag this internship, get ready for an epic experience.

We're talking competitive compensation, mentorship from seasoned researchers, access to mind-bending technologies, and the chance to contribute to projects that'll change the game.

IBM says, "Our internships are an opportunity to work on real projects that matter, with the guidance of mentors who care about your professional development." This invaluable experience could be your ticket to an amazing career in the tech industry.

Let me tell you about this internship program at Red Hat, the tech giant that took on Microsoft and won.

This open-source software company has a major presence in Durham, cementing the city's rep as a thriving tech hub. Their internship is the perfect chance to dive into the world of open-source tech and gain some serious hands-on experience.

Red Hat's program offers a diverse range of roles and projects, from software engineering to product management.

As an intern, you get to collab with industry pros, contribute to cutting-edge products, and work on real-world projects that drive innovation. The application process is competitive, but Red Hat is looking for talented folks who are passionate about open-source and always eager to learn more.

The work environment at Red Hat is dynamic and inclusive, fostering creativity, collaboration, and personal growth.

You get paired with a mentor who guides you, shares industry insights, and supports your professional development. There are comprehensive training sessions and workshops to equip you with the necessary skills to excel.

You also get to attend events, meetups, and conferences, allowing you to network with industry leaders and expand your professional circle. And the competitive compensation package showcases Red Hat's commitment to attracting top talent.

Working at Red Hat as an intern is an opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant open-source community, learn about the latest technologies and industry best practices, and develop essential skills that'll set you up for success in the ever-evolving tech landscape.

It's an experience that'll give you a serious edge in your career.

Have you heard about the insane internship program at IQVIA? These guys are like healthcare tech geniuses! They're all about using data, analytics, and cutting-edge tech to make a real impact on people's lives.

It's like a buffet of tech awesomeness!

There's more! IQVIA hooks you up with all the essential tech skills that Durham employers are craving right now.

You'll be learning from industry experts and getting hands-on experience with the latest tools and technologies. Plus, you get to work on real projects that are making a difference in healthcare.

How cool is that?

And if you're crushing it during your internship, there's a solid chance you could score a full-time gig at one of the top tech companies in Durham.

IQVIA is known for hiring their top interns, so you'll have a head start on landing that dream job. Just imagine telling your friends you're working for a global healthcare tech leader – they'll be so jealous!

The application process is straightforward – just submit your resume, transcripts, and a cover letter through their careers website.

But don't sleep on it, because these internships are in high demand. If you're a computer science or engineering student with some coding skills and a passion for making a difference, this could be your golden ticket to an incredible career in healthcare tech.

You won't want to miss out on this opportunity!

Check this out! Wolfspeed, formerly known as Cree Inc., is a straight-up semiconductor powerhouse that's been leading the way in silicon carbide technology for over three decades.

These guys are seriously pioneering energy-efficient solutions that are reshaping industries like electric vehicles, renewable energy, and aerospace.

Their technical internship program is where it's at for anyone looking to get some real-world experience in cutting-edge tech.

You'll be working on legit projects involving silicon carbide power devices, RF devices, and materials science, all while getting mentored by industry pros. It's a chance to level up your skills and contribute to some seriously innovative stuff.

To snag one of these coveted internships, you gotta hit up their career site and follow the application process.

It's competitive, but if you bring your A-game, you could be part of the team that's driving the future of semiconductor tech.

Just listen to what one former intern had to say: "The internship program at Wolfspeed is an incredible opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a cutting-edge field while working alongside some of the brightest minds in the industry." - Karen Rodriguez

If you're a tech-savvy individual looking for an internship that's exceptional, Fidelity Investments' Technology Internship is where it's at! This opportunity lets you dive headfirst into the world of fintech, working alongside some of the brilliant minds in the industry.

You'll be tackling real-life projects, like developing innovative software solutions, analyzing complex datasets, or even strengthening cybersecurity measures to keep everyone's data safe and sound.

It's not just about coding and crunching numbers. Fidelity's tech internship is a fully immersive experience, offering structured training programs, mentorship from seasoned professionals, and the opportunity to hone your teamwork skills.

Additionally, you'll gain a behind-the-scenes understanding of how a major financial firm operates, from exploring cutting-edge cloud technologies to embracing agile methodologies.

Let's be clear – securing one of these internships is no easy feat.

You'll need to bring your best with an outstanding academic record, a strong technical skillset, and a genuine passion for innovation. However, if you possess what it takes, the rewards are substantial.

Not only will you gain invaluable industry experience and connections, but you might secure a full-time position with Fidelity upon completing the internship successfully.

It's an excellent opportunity!

Avalara is a company that makes tax compliance easy-peasy for businesses. They offer a software development internship in Durham, North Carolina, where you can get hands-on exp with their cutting-edge products.

Picture yourself working on AvaTax, their flagship sales tax calculation solution, or CertCapture, their tax document management platform.

You'll be coding, testing, and deploying like a pro!

You'll be a Software Development Engineer Intern, Software Test Engineer Intern, or a DevOps Engineer Intern.

The internship lasts 12-16 weeks during the summer or whenever works for your school schedule. To apply, submit your resume, cover letter, and transcripts through the Avalara Careers portal, and let 'em know you're interested in the Software Development Internship program.

If you kill it, you might even score a full-time gig after you graduate!

As an Avalara intern, you'll be working with experienced engineers, learning agile development methodologies, collaborating with cross-functional teams, and using industry-leading tools and tech.

They'll also hook you up with technical workshops, hackathons, and mentorship from seasoned pros to help you level up your skills. It's a deal for anyone looking to gain some serious experience in the software development world.

Check this out - Pairwise is a genomics startup in Durham that's all about making fruits and veggies way better through gene editing tech like CRISPR. These guys are for real - they're using cutting-edge science to create new varieties of crops that taste amazing, last longer on the shelf, and are just straight-up easier to eat and enjoy.

Pretty rad, right?

Here's the best part - Pairwise hooks up dope internships where you can get hands-on experience in their labs, working on legit projects with their team of scientists and engineers.

You could be helping with experiments, analyzing genomic data, or even growing new plant varieties using their proprietary Fulcrum™ Platform. It's a wild opportunity to get in on the ground floor of this revolutionary biotech company.

It gets even better - Pairwise is all about "CRISPR Products, Realized".

These guys aren't just talking the talk, they're actually bringing gene-edited foods to market. They've already launched the first CRISPR-edited food product in North America last year, a special blend of mustard greens with a milder, less-pungent flavor.

And they've got way more innovative products in the pipeline, like seedless blackberries and cherries without pits. Mind = blown, am I right?

If you're into cutting-edge science and want to make a real impact on the future of food and agriculture, an internship at Pairwise is a total no-brainer.

Just hit up their careers page, submit your application, and get ready to level up your skills in genomics and biotech. Who knows, you might even score a full-time gig if you impress them enough.

Either way, it's an epic way to spend your summer or semester.

AgBiome, that dope biotech company based right here in Durham, is killin' it with their cutting-edge tech for sustainable agriculture.

These guys are seriously harnessing the power of microbes to develop eco-friendly solutions for crop protection and yield boosting.

It's like they're unlocking a whole new level of farming, straight outta Mother Nature!

Their Research and Development Internship program is a total gamechanger for anyone looking to get their hands dirty in this field.

As an intern, you get to work alongside some serious brains, contributing to projects that'll blow your mind. We're talking:

• Sequencing genomes and crunching bioinformatics data
• Isolating and studying microbial strains like a boss
• Diving into synthetic biology and genetic engineering techniques
• Designing field trials and collecting data like a pro

Getting into this internship is no cakewalk, though.

AgBiome is looking for driven individuals who live and breathe sustainable agriculture. To apply, you gotta submit your resume, cover letter, and transcripts through their online portal.

If you make the cut, you'll be working in legit state-of-the-art labs, collaborating with multidisciplinary teams that'll have your mind spinning with innovation.

AgBiome's internship program not only gave me hands-on research experience but also exposed me to how cutting-edge tech is being applied in agriculture. The mentorship and guidance were invaluable.

- Karen Lopez

You've been scoping out the top 10 tech internships in Durham, and it's clear this city is a prime spot for getting your hands dirty in the tech game.

From big dogs like Cisco and IBM to fresh startups like Pairwise and AgBiome, there's something for every interest and career path.

As you're gearing up to land one of these sweet gigs, keep these tips in mind:

• Customize your applications: Don't just fire off generic resumes and cover letters. Tailor that stuff to each company, showing you're a perfect fit for their vibe and values.
• Flex your skills: Whether it's coding languages, data wizardry, or project management, highlight the technical skills you've gained from classes, personal projects, or previous experience.
• Network and research: Hit up career fairs, tap into your school's alumni network, and do your homework on each company's culture and internship programs. Knowledge is power.
• Prep for interviews: Practice those common interview questions, have some smart queries ready for your interviewers, and be prepared to show off your problem-solving skills and passion for tech.

A tech internship isn't just about gaining experience - it's a chance to explore your interests, build connections, and potentially score a full-time gig after graduation.

So, seize the opportunity, stay focused, and let your tech passion shine through every step of the way.

For more resources, check out Durham's thriving tech hub, tap into your school's career center, and browse sites like Internships.com for the latest openings and application tips.

Now go out there and crush it!