Federal Climate Innovation Graduate Intern

Overview

Put your passion and skills to work for the planet. Climate change is the most urgent issue of our time, and we need people like you to help us build a vital Earth — for everyone.

We’re Environmental Defense Fund, a fast-paced nonprofit with a growing staff of more than 1,000 people in nearly 30 countries. We deliver game-changing solutions that cut climate pollution and strengthen people’s ability to thrive despite the effects climate change is already having. We work wherever we can have the most impact, from local communities to top companies to governments worldwide, and even in space.

Our culture, values and commitment to diversity make EDF an exciting and meaningful place to work. Every job here makes a difference. Won’t you join us?

Responsibilities

Program/Department Overview

The Intern will sit within the Federal Climate Innovation team, which seeks to advance an efficient and equitable clean energy transition, and will work with direct supervision from the Economics team, a cross-cutting team that focuses on solidifying the economic bedrock of EDF.

Overall Function

With the recent passage of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL), the US federal government is making an unprecedented investment in the innovation and deployment of critical climate solutions. However, this opportunity comes with a wide array of questions that relate to technological viability of key sectors, economics, and equity and justice. The intern will conduct research and analysis to provide rigorous support for US policymakers to drive positive outcomes through the implementation of these laws. They will conduct research and help to inform solutions for those who suffer the most from environmental damage and help communities, investors, and entrepreneurs find economically sustainable solutions. They will provide thought leadership on climate innovation solutions that can help accelerate the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and the rate and extent of warming. They will also provide support on how to ensure just and equitable outcomes for all as we pursue national and international climate goals and implement newly-passed legislation in the US.

Key Responsibilities

Tasks may include but are not limited to:

• Support continued development of a climate vulnerability index that maps drivers of vulnerability at the census tract level.

• Research strategies for the effective implementation of key Department of Energy programs, including industrial hubs and other investments.

• Investigate role of life cycle assessments in clean procurement.

• Assist with research on climate policy solutions aimed at reducing emissions and ensuring equitable and just outcomes in the US.

• Synthesize findings into research memos, fact sheets, and communications materials for both internal and external audiences.

• Provide ad hoc support to the team in various research and analytical capacities.

• Participate in advancing EDF Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) goals in which people from all backgrounds and experiences feel connected, included, and empowered to address the environmental and organizational challenges in alignment with EDF values.

Qualifications

• Currently enrolled in or a recent graduate of a Masters degree program.
• Graduate coursework in environmental policy, economics, or related field.
• Highly proficient in Excel and possesses strong analytical capabilities.
• Experience in ArcGIS or QGIS optional, but strongly recommended.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Must be well organized, motivated, and detail-oriented.
• Ability to multi-task, prioritize and meet deadlines.
• Ability to work in a team setting and have the ability to work independently when projects are due.
• Demonstrate self-awareness, cultural competency and inclusivity, and ability to work with colleagues and stakeholders across diverse cultures and backgrounds.
• Demonstrate initiative and problem solving skills.

Location

U.S. Remote

Term

10 to 12 weeks

Hours

Full-time; 35 hours per week

Compensation

This internship would involve compensation for work paid at a rate competitive with leading non-profits at $20/hr.

Application Materials

Interested applicants should attach their cover letter and resume to the EDF application.

Pay Ranges

We offer a strong total rewards package encompassing competitive salary, robust benefits, and professional development opportunities consistent with a modern global organization. We take into account factors such as candidate experience, skills, training, internal team equity and local norms.

The pay range for this role is shown below.

Please note that pay ranges are country specific. As a result, the stated currency is not meant be converted into any other currency.

Minimum Salary

USD $20.00/Hr.

Maximum Salary

USD $20.00/Hr.

EEO Information

Environmental Defense Fund is an equal opportunity employer where an applicant's qualifications are considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other basis prohibited by law.