Engagement in the work of the federal government lies at the center of the White House Fellowships. Work assignments can bring broad access and ever changing issues and challenges, but also long hours and unglamorous chores requiring as much perseverance as ability.

The intensive work experience is the fellowship's core. White House Fellows spend a year as full-time, paid assistants to senior White House staff, the Vice President, Cabinet officers and other top-ranking government officials. Their assignments demand a capacity for learning quickly and a willingness to work hard. Typically, Fellows write speeches, help draft and review proposed legislation, answer Congressional inquiries, chair meetings, and conduct briefings.

Job assignments are made by the Commission staff in consultation with agency officials on the basis of interviews that are conducted during "Placement Week." Fellows receive a salary and benefits from the agency where they work. Salary is paid at the federal pay grade GS-14, step 3 (approximately $70,500). White House Fellows cannot receive compensation from any other source during their year of government service. At the end of the Fellowship year, most Fellows return to their homes and their former occupations more experienced in public policy decision-making and better prepared to contribute to their professions, their communities, and the country.