IEC Summer Energy Intern

Date Posted: 3/8/2021
Department: Programs
Type of Employment: Intern

Date Posted:  March 8, 2021

Department: Energy
Type of Employment: Temporary Paid
Position Title: Summer Intern
Status: Part-time Temporary position (10 weeks)
Location: Des Moines, Iowa (Virtual)
Reports to: Energy Program Director
Pay: $2,500

 
Position Summary

The Iowa Environmental Council (IEC) seeks to hire a student entering their junior or senior year of undergraduate work or a graduate student for summer 2021. The intern will assist IEC in research and analysis around siting of renewable energy in Iowa and how local governments can take action on climate using a community focus. The work will support the Energy & Climate program.

Position Details

IEC’s Energy & Climate program works to accelerate Iowa’s transition to renewable energy and energy efficiency and away from fossil fuels. The intern will have the opportunity to research and assist in updates IEC resources on local wind and solar siting, research and consolidate information to inform IEC about best practices for improving local acceptance of wind and solar installations in Iowa, provide support for the development of a sustainable communities program in coordination with IEC staff and partners.

The intern will be based remotely, but in-person attendance at meetings and events may be possible depending on pandemic conditions.

Primary Responsibilities

• Research best practices related to wind and solar siting in Iowa with the guidance of the Energy Program Director and other Energy staff.
• Provide suggested updates to IEC publications on wind and solar siting.
• Compose memoranda on policy issues including ideas and proposals for next actions.
• Provide support for IEC’s advocacy efforts, including review of local ordinances and academic studies, contact with local government officials, coordination with partners, and other advocacy needs.
• Attend local and state agency meetings and hearings as appropriate and participate in IEC meetings and outreach events.

Qualifications and desirable qualities

• Some education or experience in public policy advocacy, planning, law, sociology, organizing, or other relevant focus area.
• Excellent analytical and writing skills.
• Ability to connect with people from many walks of life.
• Creative and critical thinking skills.
• Commitment to and enthusiasm for protecting Iowa’s environment.

This is a paid, part-time (20 hour/week) position to be completed in ten weeks. Start and end dates are flexible.

The Iowa Environmental Council is an Equal Opportunity Employer dedicated to building a culturally diverse and pluralistic community engaged with working in a multicultural environment, and strongly encourages applications from all qualified applicants.

TO APPLY

Candidates should send their cover letter and resume to Kerri Johannsen, Energy Program Director, at Iowa Environmental Council via email to Johannsen@iaenvironment.org. Applicants are encouraged to apply by March 31, 2021. Position will remain open until filled.