The Wireless Telecommunications Bureau (WTB) is a dynamic and innovative bureau concentrating on contemporary issues addressing the nation’s telecommunication needs. WTB is responsible for facilitating the rapid and widespread deployment of wireless broadband services, fostering a forward-looking and cohesive focus concerning spectrum policy and competition, and promoting efficient and transparent access to spectrum including the transition to innovative uses. We oversee nearly two million licenses and manage the tower registration process.
- General Duties
While duties will vary by division placement, generally, WTB interns 1) conduct legal, policy, and technical research; 2) draft documents related to ongoing rulemaking and licensing proceedings; and 3) participate in policy discussions. See below for specific duties by division: - Office of the Bureau Chief (OBC)
- The Office of the Bureau Chief oversees the Divisions’ work on all Wireless Bureau legal, policy, and technical matters. OBC is responsible for interfacing and consulting with the Chairman, Commissioners, and other Bureau leadership on all Wireless Bureau issues, and serves as the liaison between the Bureau and the public on matters concerning the Commission’s wireless telecommunications rules, policies, and procedures.
- Broadband Division (BD)
- BD is responsible for developing policy and rules that facilitate rapid, widespread deployment of wireless communications services, particularly wireless broadband services. Along with the Mobility Division, it oversees nearly two million wireless licenses. BD helps carry out WTB's mission by developing and administering the rules and regulations for spectrum in radio services including the Advanced Wireless Service (AWS), 600 MHz, 2.5 GHz, 12.2-12.7 GHz, 12.7-13.25 GHz, Fixed Point-to-Point Microwave Service (wireless backhaul), Broadcast Auxiliary Service (such as electronic news gathering and licensed wireless microphones), Upper Microwave Flexible Use Service (UMFUS), and the Millimeter Wave 70/80/90 GHz Service.
- Mobility Division (MD)
- MD is responsible for developing policy and rules that facilitate rapid, widespread deployment of wireless communications services. Along with the BD, it oversees nearly two million licenses used to provide an array of wireless services. MD is responsible for developing and administering the rules and regulations for various wireless radio services, including 700 MHz, Citizens Broadband Radio Service (3.5 GHz), and Broadband PCS, as well as other services such as private land mobile used for dispatch and remote monitoring of equipment, maritime and aviation, and personal use such as Ham Radio.
- Competition and Infrastructure Policy Division (CIPD)
- CIPD develops and implements competition and infrastructure policies to promote the rapid deployment of wireless communications services consistent with environmental and other statutory requirements and to encourage competition in the wireless marketplace for the benefit of consumers. CIPD’s competition group reviews proposed transactions involving mobile wireless licensees, and establishes rules to promote competition in the wireless marketplace. CIPD’s infrastructure group manages environmental compliance for licensees and tower registrants so that the agency meets its obligations under the National Environmental Policy Act and the National Historic Preservation Act.
- Internship Period(s)
Fall, Winter/Spring & Summer semesters. - Selection Criteria
Non-U.S. citizens are not eligible for internships. No prior communications or technical experience is necessary, but candidates must be current full- or half-time students at an accredited college or university. Preference will be given to law students, but exceptionally qualified non-law students of studies related to our mission (e.g., business, economics, engineering, information technology, communications and public affairs) are welcome to apply. - Send Application to
Edward Mozee at WTBInternRecruiting@fcc.gov, or by mail to: Edward Mozee, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554. - Application Information
Please submit a resumé, cover letter, unofficial transcript, and brief writing sample. Applicants must confirm that they are a U.S. citizen in their cover letter, and should communicate interest in specific issues/divisions if applicable. Specific placements within WTB will be based on the participant’s interests and experience and the needs of the bureau. - Additional Information
Opening are for unpaid volunteer internships. - Applications Accepted
Rolling basis. For maximum consideration, apply towards the beginning of the application window: - Fall: June 1 – July 31
- Spring: October 1 – November 15
- Summer: January 1 – February 15