• Intern - Policy Development

    NYSERDA (Albany, NY)


    INTERN - POLICY DEVELOPMENT

    New York is leading the nation in the fight on global climate change and the transition to a clean energy-powered economy. The Climate Act (https://climate.ny.gov/) has created the most aggressive climate change goals in the nation and requires an ambitious agenda that blends proven catalysts with innovative approaches while operating across a broader energy arena that is rapidly evolving. New York State Energy Research & Development Authority (NYSERDA) is a driving force in realizing this agenda. NYSERDA works with stakeholders that span residents, business owners, developers, community leaders, local government officials, universities, utilities, investors, entrepreneurs, and more, to develop, invest, and foster conditions that:

     

    + Attract the private sector capital investment needed to expand New York’s clean energy economy.

    + Overcome barriers to using clean energy at a large-scale in New York.

    + Enable New York’s communities and residents to benefit equitably from energy efficiency and renewable energy.

    INTERNSHIP OVERVIEW

    This is a paid internship for current students at an accredited college. The pay rate is from $18 to $20 per hour based on current class year. This internship will take place during Summer 2026, with the option to begin during Spring 2026 and continue through Fall 2026 based on intern availability and eligibility.

     

    Interns must be located in New York State or an immediately adjacent state while working. It is expected that interns will follow our telework policy, with a combination of in-office and remote work. Interns work up to 18.5 hours per week during the semester, and up to 37.5 hours per week between semesters, when not attending classes.

    PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITES

    The intern will support the Policy Development team with projects that combine research and analysis, project management assistance, and stakeholder engagement. Areas of focus are expect to include decarbonization of the buildings sectors, electric grid flexibility, and societal benefit-cost analysis. The intern will gain firsthand experience and exposure to policy development and policy planning for New York's clean energy industry, including through participation in calls, meetings, workshops, and industry events.

    Responsibilities may include, but are not limited to:

    + Develop memos, briefings, and internal resources on energy policy issues, including through synthesis of data and research from academic, government, national labs, and policy sources as well as comparative analysis of other state and federal programs and legislation.

    + Assist with project management, coordination, and logistical support for energy policy and analytical projects.

    + Collaborate with internal, interagency, and external stakeholders on issues related to energy and climate policy, market barriers and market creation, and the regulatory environment.

    + Perform other responsibilities as assigned in a timely manner.

    + Demonstrate respect, equity and inclusive behavior and practices of a diverse workforce and community.

    MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

    + Current graduate-level candidate studying policy, public or business administration, engineering, economics, environmental science, or a related field of analytical study.

    + Familiarity with concepts related to clean energy and decarbonization. Experience with the electricity or buildings sector preferred.

    + Demonstrated aptitude in policy analysis, research (using primary and secondary sources), and technical writing.

    + Excellent written and oral communications skills.

    + Proficiency with the Microsoft Office suite of programs.

    + Skill in managing multiple activities, delivering on commitments, and operating with speed, accuracy, and strong judgement.

    + Strong work ethic.

     

    Note: Applications without both a cover letter and a resume will not be considered.

     

    Please submit two files, one for your cover letter and another for a resume, through our Careers page online.

     

    (Applications submitted only through your school’s recruiting portal will not be considered.)

     

    Please note that during the application process, you may be prompted to opt-in to Artificial Intelligence (“AI”) scoring. This is an automatic request in the ADP system but is not a feature that is used by NYSERDA in its recruiting and hiring process. Your response will have no impact on your application to NYSERDA.

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