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*Who We Are:* The Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) seeks to protect, preserve, and enhance Massachusetts’ environmental resources and create a clean energy future for all residents. Through the stewardship of open spaces, the protection of environmental resources, and the advancement of clean energy, EEA works tirelessly to make Massachusetts a wonderful place to live, work, and raise a family.   Our commitment to environmental justice ensures that every resident, regardless of background or location, can live in a safe, clean environment and shares equally in the benefits of the clean energy transition. *Who We Are as an Employer:* At EEA, we create meaningful, inclusive opportunities that empower our employees to make a real difference in shaping the environmental future of Massachusetts. We foster a workplace culture where diversity is valued, innovation is encouraged, and collaboration thrives. Our employees play a vital role in advancing sustainability, environmental justice, and clean energy solutions, ensuring a positive and lasting impact on Massachusetts and its residents. *Description:* *Outdoor Recreation & Early Education Policy Intern* * * The Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA), in collaboration with the Department of Early Education and Care (EEC), is seeking a passionate and detail-oriented summer intern to support an initiative led by the Office of Outdoor Recreation. The intern will assist in strengthening the connections between early childhood education programs and outdoor recreational opportunities across Massachusetts. The goal is to expand equitable access to nature for young children, families, and early education providers by supporting research, resource development, and policy exploration.* * * * *Key Responsibilities:* * *Stakeholder Research & Engagement* o Connect with existing early childhood outdoor programs (e.g., Boston Outdoor Preschool Network, Mass Audubon, Boston Urban Wilds, MA Farm to School) to gather insights and best practices. * *Resource Mapping & Development* o Review and catalog existing resourcesabout outdoor recreationopportunities/access(e.g., MassMapper) and identify gaps in information/tools available to early education providers. o Explore opportunities for a centralized resource hub to support provider engagement with outdoor spaces. * *Professional Development Scan* o Research existing training, conferences, and learning opportunities related to outdoor education. o Identify areas where additional offerings may be needed or expanded. * *Policy & Regulatory Review* o Support exploration of licensing regulations and other barriers that may limit outdoor space use by EEC providers. o Identify potential policy changes or adjustments to enhance access. * *Reporting & Synthesis* o Develop memos, summary documents, and presentations to share findings with internal teams and partners. *Preferred Skills and Qualifications:* * Current experience, skills and/or directed study in public policy, early child care education, environmental studies, public health, or a related field. * Strong research, writing, and synthesis skills. * Interest in early childhood education, environmental justice, or outdoor recreation. * Experience or familiarity with state/local agencies, community-based programs, or environmental education is a plus. * Ability to communicate professionally with diverse stakeholders. * Organized, self-directed, and capable of working both independently and collaboratively. * Experience with Google Workspace or Microsoft Office; familiarity with GIS tools (e.g., MassMapper) is a bonus but not required. * * *The position is scheduled for June 16-August 15,2025 at approximately 15-20 hours/week. * *First consideration will be given to those applicants that apply within the first 14 days.* * * *Please see Preferred Qualifications.* Please note that there are no benefits associated with this position beyond earned sick leave, in accordance with state guidelines. _*Comprehensive Benefits*_ When you embark on a career with the Commonwealth, you are offered an outstanding suite of employee benefits that add to the overall value of your compensation package. We take pride in providing a work experience that supports you, your loved ones, and your future. Want the specifics? Explore our Employee Benefits and Rewards! Please note that there are no benefits associated with this position beyond earned sick leave, in accordance with state guidelines. *An Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer. Females, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.* The Commonwealth is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law. Research suggests that qualified women, Black, Indigenous, and Persons of Color (BIPOC) may self-select out of opportunities if they don't meet 100% of the job requirements. We encourage individuals who believe they have the skills necessary to thrive to apply for this role. **Job:** **Environmental and Energy* **Organization:** **Exec Office Of Energy and Environmental Affairs* **Title:** *Outdoor Recreation & Early Education Policy Intern * **Location:** *Massachusetts-Boston-100 Cambridge Street* **Requisition ID:** *250004S0*