Summer 2025 Legal Intern

Peraton’s Summer 2025 Legal Intern program in Reston, VA offers a high-impact opportunity for students and recent graduates to gain hands-on legal experience at a leading national security and technology company. Below is a comprehensive breakdown tailored for young professionals:

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Company Intelligence

• History, Size, and Industry Position
• Peraton is a next-generation national security company, recognized as a top mission capability integrator and transformative enterprise IT provider.
• The company supports NASA, every branch of the U.S. Armed Forces, and key government agencies, operating globally and across all security domains: land, sea, space, air, and cyberspace.
• Peraton has a reputation for leading complex national programs, including air traffic control modernization and space communications.
• Recent News, Growth, and Strategy
• Peraton is at the forefront of the FAA’s air traffic control modernization, leveraging advanced technologies like AI, secure communications, and big data.
• The company is investing heavily in innovation through Peraton Labs (formerly Bell Labs), signaling a strong commitment to R&D and future growth.
• Culture and Work Environment
• Peraton emphasizes a mission-first culture, innovation, and operational readiness.
• Employees are described as “doing the can’t be done,” working on high-stakes, impactful projects in a collaborative environment.
• The company is building teams with the agility of a tech start-up but the resources of a large defense contractor.
• Values and Mission
• Peraton’s mission is to deliver trusted, differentiated solutions to protect the nation and its allies, with a focus on safety, security, and public good.
• Core values include innovation, integrity, and commitment to long-term success.
• Office Locations and Hybrid/Remote Policies
• Headquarters: Reston, VA, with offices and operations across the U.S. and globally.
• Many roles are on-site due to the sensitive nature of national security work, but some positions may offer hybrid arrangements depending on project requirements.

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Program Deep Dive

• Structure and Timeline
• The Summer Legal Internship typically runs for 10-12 weeks (late May/early June to August).
• Interns are embedded within the legal department, working alongside experienced attorneys and compliance professionals.
• Skills and Competencies Sought
• Legal research and writing
• Analytical thinking and attention to detail
• Strong communication and collaboration skills
• Interest in government contracts, compliance, cybersecurity, or national security law
• Daily Responsibilities and Learning Opportunities
• Drafting and reviewing contracts, NDAs, and compliance documents
• Conducting legal research on regulatory and policy issues
• Supporting investigations and risk assessments
• Participating in meetings with internal clients and external partners
• Mentorship and Training
• Interns receive direct mentorship from senior legal staff.
• Formal onboarding and training sessions on Peraton’s business, legal frameworks, and industry regulations.
• Opportunities to shadow attorneys and attend cross-functional meetings.
• Career Progression
• High-performing interns may be considered for return offers, full-time entry-level legal roles, or rotational programs post-graduation.
• Alumni often move into roles in government contracting, compliance, or corporate legal departments.

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Application Success Guide

• Requirements and Deadlines
• Applicants must be current undergraduate or law students (typically rising 2L/3L for law students).
• Resume, cover letter, and unofficial transcript required.
• Application deadline is usually in late fall (November–December) for summer roles.
• Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Submit application via Peraton’s careers portal.
2. Initial resume screening by HR.
3. First-round video or phone interview (behavioral and technical).
4. Final interview with legal team (may include case study or writing sample).
5. Offer and background check.

• Common Interview Questions
• Why are you interested in national security law or government contracting?
• Describe a time you handled confidential or sensitive information.
• How do you approach legal research on unfamiliar topics?
• Tell us about a challenging team project and your role.
• Assessment Centers/Case Studies
• Some candidates may be asked to complete a legal writing sample or brief case analysis relevant to government contracts or compliance.
• What Makes a Standout Candidate
• Demonstrated interest in national security, technology, or public sector law.
• Strong academic record and relevant coursework or extracurriculars.
• Clear, concise communication and a proactive, solutions-oriented mindset.

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Insider Tips

• Interview Tips and Company Values
• Emphasize your alignment with Peraton’s mission and values—show genuine interest in national security and public service.
• Prepare to discuss how you handle ambiguity and fast-paced environments.
• Technical vs. Soft Skills
• Legal research and writing are critical, but so are teamwork, adaptability, and ethical judgment.
• Industry Knowledge
• Familiarize yourself with government contracting basics, cybersecurity regulations, and recent developments in national security law.
• Questions to Ask Interviewers
• What are the biggest legal challenges facing Peraton today?
• How does the legal team interact with other departments (e.g., compliance, engineering)?
• What does success look like for interns in this program?
• Red Flags to Avoid
• Lack of interest in national security or public sector work.
• Overemphasis on academic achievements without practical examples.
• Not researching Peraton’s recent projects or industry trends.

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Practical Information

• Salary/Stipend
• Legal internships at defense contractors in the DC area typically pay $22–$32/hour for undergraduates and $30–$40/hour for law students (ranges may vary based on year and experience).
• Benefits
• Paid internship, potential for relocation assistance, networking events, and access to company resources.
• Some interns may receive limited health benefits or access to wellness programs.
• Start Dates and Duration
• Program starts in late May or early June and runs 10–12 weeks.
• Networking and Alumni
• Interns participate in company-wide events, lunch-and-learns, and have access to Peraton’s early career network.
• Alumni often stay in touch through LinkedIn groups and company alumni programs.

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Actionable Next Steps:

• Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight relevant legal and analytical experience.
• Research Peraton’s recent projects and be ready to discuss how your interests align.
• Practice behavioral and situational interview questions.
• Reach out to current or former Peraton interns on LinkedIn for insights. This approach will help you stand out and maximize your chances of securing the Summer 2025 Legal Intern role at Peraton.