Temporary Paid Legislative Affairs Intern

Date Posted: 11/3/2023
Department: Programs
Type of Employment: Intern

Department: Energy and Climate Program 

Type of Employment: Temporary Paid 

Position Title: Legislative Affairs Intern 

Status: Part-Time, Temporary position (10-15 hours per week, January – May, 2024)  

Location: Des Moines, Iowa 

Reports to: Energy Program Director 

Pay: $5,000 

About IEC 

We envision a state that is a leader in addressing climate change and environmental justice, and in creating resilient communities that embody Iowans' shared values of respect for all people and the environment.

Through education, advocacy, and coalition-building, we raise awareness, generate action, and create large-scale change. We work on federal, state, and local public policy issues to ensure a just, healthy environment and sustainable future for all Iowans.

Position Summary 

The Iowa Environmental Council (IEC) seeks to hire a Legislative Affairs Intern for the 2024 Legislative Session (January through May, 2024). The Legislative Intern will assist IEC’ s Energy and Climate Program team to support legislative objectives related to clean energy and climate.  

Primary Duties 

The Legislative Intern will be a part of a team working to support legislative action on clean energy in the 2024 Iowa Legislative Session. Specific duties include: 

• Performing research and analysis that provides support for IEC positions on legislation 
• Crafting talking points and messages for the public, media, stakeholders, and legislators 
• Performing outreach to stakeholders and keeping IEC members and supporters updated and engaged through email and with online and in-person communication 
• Assisting with in-person advocacy efforts during key legislative processes including recruiting and organizing supporters and providing logistical support at the Capitol 
• Attending committee and subcommittee meetings and reporting to the team on legislative actions  
• Tracking legislation through the legislative website 
• Writing content for various sources including blogs, op-eds, and social media 
• Assisting with IEC’s Advocacy Day event 

Qualifications and desirable qualities 

• At least two years of coursework towards a Bachelor’s Degree in political science, public affairs, journalism, communications, or related field  
• Some background knowledge of state legislative processes 
• Enthusiasm and excitement for government affairs work and environmental protection 
• Excellent organizational skills 
• Creative mindset 
• Self-motivation  
• Ability to attend in-person meetings at the Capitol on a weekly basis 
• Ability to organize workload and work independently in a multi-project environment  
• Ability to conduct oneself in a professional manner with policymakers 

TO APPLY 

Candidates from all types of backgrounds are encouraged to apply. Please send a 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 November 17, 2023. Position will remain open until filled.