The purpose of this study is to investigate the factors that influence job satisfaction for interns working remotely in IT startups. Job satisfaction plays a crucial role in IT startups as it works as a stabilizer in highly dynamic and uncertain work environments where organizations focus on finding the right market fit. Satisfying interns is especially important as they bring in cuttingedge knowledge and are supporting hands when financial resources are limited. This research addresses the research gap in understanding the factors that play a crucial role in enabling high job satisfaction for interns working in remotely operating IT startups.  

This study employs a qualitative approach, sourcing empirical data through semi-structured interviews with interns working in remote IT startups in Sweden. This affords deep insights into interns’ mindsets and priorities to identify the factors relevant from their perspective. The data analysis was conducted using the GIOIA data analysis method to identify key factors. 

The findings present five key areas influencing intern job satisfaction: Intern Macro Influences, Events, Guidance, Processes & Tools, and Motivation. The Intern Macro Influences include the influencing factors Internship Motivation, Remote Internship Awareness, and Cultural Background. Events incorporate Standups, Retrospectives, Company Culture Events and Team Events. Guidance includes Delegation, Support, Coaching, Mentoring Skills and Responsiveness. Processes & Tools include the influencing factors Core Hours, Peer Programming and the Application Portfolio Dashboard. The last key area, Motivation consists of Competence, Relatedness and Autonomy. 

The study concluded that mentorship programs are highly desired, while clearness and structure through centralized dashboards and clearly set working hours are needed. Traditional hierarchies are disliked and coaching preferred. The remote setting creates higher isolation, which can be prevented through standups, retrospectives, and team building events. Further quantitative studies with startups across Europe could provide deeper insights and expand upon the factors that influence intern job satisfaction.