About Symetra Financial

Symetra Financial is a leading national financial services company dedicated to helping individuals and businesses achieve financial security through innovative insurance and retirement solutions. Specializing in life insurance, retirement plans, and employee benefits, Symetra empowers millions to pursue their financial goals with confidence. Guided by principles of value, transparency, and sustainability, Symetra designs products that stand the test of time while prioritizing clear communication and competitive pricing. As a remote-first organization, Symetra fosters an inclusive environment where diverse perspectives drive innovation and growth. With a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), Symetra is building the most inclusive insurance company in the country, lifting up employees and communities alike.

Role Overview

The 2026 IT Cloud Data Engineering Internship at Symetra Financial offers a unique opportunity for current students to immerse themselves in cutting-edge cloud data technologies within the insurance and financial services sector. This fully remote, 12-week program runs from June 15 to September 4, 2026, and places interns on the Data Management team in the Tech & Ops division. Interns will design, develop, and enhance cloud-native data services in the AWS environment, gaining practical experience in a professional scrum-based agile setting. Ideal for those passionate about data engineering, AWS, and financial services technology, this internship provides hands-on exposure to real-world projects that support Symetra's mission of financial freedom.

Key Responsibilities

In this role, you will contribute directly to Symetra's data infrastructure, collaborating with experienced engineers to build scalable solutions. Key responsibilities include:

• Designing and developing cloud-native data services using AWS technologies like EC2, Cloud Formation, Lambda, Redshift, Glue, Aurora, and S3.
• Actively participating in standard scrum ceremonies, including daily standups, sprint planning, review sessions, and retrospectives to ensure agile delivery.
• Maintaining and extending the team's Wiki and Procedures Documentation to promote knowledge sharing and operational excellence.

These tasks offer interns the chance to apply academic knowledge in a production environment, working on initiatives that enhance data management for Symetra's life insurance, retirement, and employee benefits platforms.

Qualifications & Requirements

To succeed in this internship, candidates should demonstrate a blend of academic pursuit and practical skills. Required qualifications include:

• Current enrollment in a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree program, preferably in Computer Science, Data Engineering, or a related field.
• Working experience with AWS services such as EC2, Cloud Formation, and Lambda.
• Programming proficiency in Python and SQL.
• Familiarity with data platforms including AWS Redshift, AWS Glue, AWS Aurora, AWS S3, and Apache Spark.
• Knowledge of CI/CD pipelines and visualization tools like Power BI and MicroStrategy.

Additionally, applicants must be authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship. Symetra enforces strict remote network requirements: minimum 100 Mbps download/20 Mbps upload speeds via fiber, cable, or DSL (no satellite or cellular). All candidates undergo video interviews with identity verification to ensure secure hiring practices.

Benefits & Perks

Symetra prioritizes intern success with comprehensive support:

• Fully remote work with all necessary equipment shipped directly to your home.
• Competitive hourly compensation ranging from $22.00 to $25.00.
• Structured 12-week program aligned with summer schedules.
• Exposure to enterprise-level AWS data engineering in the financial services industry.
• Opportunities to network with professionals in insurance tech, focusing on life insurance, retirement services, and employee benefits.

Symetra's remote-first culture ensures a positive experience, backed by high-speed internet standards and inclusive practices.

Career Growth

This internship is a launchpad for future careers in cloud data engineering and financial technology. Participants gain agile experience, contribute to live projects, and build a portfolio showcasing AWS expertise. Symetra's emphasis on employee development, combined with its stable growth in insurance and retirement sectors, positions interns for full-time opportunities. Many past interns have transitioned into permanent roles, leveraging skills in Python, SQL, and data platforms to advance in data management and analytics.

Why Join Symetra

Joining Symetra means more than an internship—it's a chance to impact a company transforming financial security. Symetra's focus on life insurance, retirement planning, and employee benefits addresses real needs, supported by sustainable operations and transparent practices. As a values-driven employer, Symetra celebrates diverse identities, removes barriers, and fuels innovation through inclusion. Interns enjoy a premium remote experience, professional mentorship, and alignment with a mission to create a world of financial freedom. Explore careers at Symetra's career site and become part of a stronger, more innovative team.

Role FAQs

Q: Is the internship paid? Yes, hourly rate of $22.00-$25.00.
Q: What is the duration? 12 weeks, June 15–September 4, 2026.
Q: Is visa sponsorship available? No, must be authorized to work in the US.
Q: What internet is required? 100 Mbps down/20 Mbps up via fiber, cable, or DSL.
Q: Are video interviews mandatory? Yes, with identity verification post-phone screen.
Q: Who is Symetra? A financial services leader in life insurance, retirement, and employee benefits.