What questions do you have for me?
This question will help them not only assess your genuine interest in working for them but also clue them into whether you are the type of person to ask questions when training for a new job. The more questions you ask, the more enhanced your communications skills will seem, and the more likely you are to be self-guided and successful at your job.
"I have a few. Let's start with, what does an average day on the job look like once onboarding and orientation are complete?"
You are interviewing the Department of Energy as much as they are interviewing you. They've provided opportunities for you to share your accomplishments and advertise your merits. This is your opportunity to allow them to propose their pitch and advertise their merits and what they offer. Don't ask about pay, incentives, or benefits. This will indicate that you're only in it for the money and that your goals and values are not at all aligned with theirs. Rather, a good question to start with is, 'What does a typical day, from beginning to end, look like for an intern starting in the program?'
