With world attention focused on both the environment and the economy, Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) is where policymakers and business leaders turn for win-win solutions. This leading green group, with programs from Boston to Beijing, has tripled in size over the past decade by focusing on strong science, uncommon partnerships and market-based approaches. You can be part of a vibrant workplace that welcomes diverse perspectives, talents and contributions, where innovation and a focus on results are a way of life.

Environmental Defense Fund's Washington Office is seeking a highly qualified and deeply motivated graduate student to work on projects related to climate change, air quality, and energy policy.  Environmental Defense Fund is a national, non-profit, non-governmental advocacy organization with 750,000 members nationwide, and offices across the country.  

The internship is up to ten weeks in duration, and fourteen hours per week (part-time).  We seek a student interested in working on cutting edge regional, national climate and air quality issues.  EDF is working on many fronts to clean the air and halt climate-disrupting emissions of greenhouse gases.  One of the tools we have available to secure clean air, climate, and health protections is the federal rulemaking process.  The federal standards being promulgated under the Clean Air Act — a momentous piece of legislation first passed by Congress in 1970 and strengthened in 1990 — require enormous efforts by EDF and partners to ensure that rigorous protections are adopted and that special interests do not interfere with progress.  The Intern will be a part of the Climate & Air team and will assist in our activities to protect and advance clean air standards.

The Washington, D.C. Office is located just north of Dupont Circle—near historic Georgetown, the vibrant U Street and Adams Morgan neighborhoods, and the White House.  Summers in Washington offer the opportunity to sample the city’s dizzying array of outstanding museums, venerable monuments, diverse restaurants, theatre, music, and (often free) cultural and civic events.  Also not to be missed: the Fourth of July fireworks on the National Mall; kayaking on the Potomac; Friday night jazz in the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden; hiking in Shenandoah National Park; and Dorothy’s ruby red slippers. 

Reports to

Climate & Air Policy Specialist

Responsibilities

• Perform research, policy analysis and preparation of briefing papers and other relevant materials to support EDF’s defense and advancement of the nation’s clean air laws
• Prepare memos, reports, and fact sheets and outreach materials for legislators, decision-makers, and the public 
• Prepare presentations, graphics, and databases/spreadsheets 
• Coordinate with media, field, and online staff on material preparation as necessary

Qualifications

• High degree of professionalism;
• Excellent written and verbal communications skills;
• Exceptional personal organization skills and attention to detail;
• Ability to undertake both quantitative and qualitative analysis of clean air and climate policy issues;
• Ability to work both independently and as a member of small teams in a dynamic and creative environment;
• Ability to work with colleagues and partners of varied backgrounds and experience in a fast-paced work environment;
• Experience with Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint;
• Excellent judgment, flexibility, good humor, self-starter, and highly motivated.