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

　　Government Affairs helps to facilitate meetings between management and members of the Legislature, construct the legislative agenda for the authority, and monitor legislative activities at the state and federal level to inform management and the Chamber. Further, the department helps to develop and implement strategies to attain authority goals and advise executive management on policy positions. The Government Affairs team works in tandem with the Governor’s office, state executive agencies, the state legislature, local governments, and the federal government on matters related to NYSERDA’s programs and activities that are focused on achieving the goals of the Climate Act and other laws/directives. This work requires collaboration with teams across the authority relating to ongoing efforts to develop and build greater program awareness and outreach.

　　NYSERDA’s sustainability coordinator is part of the Governmental Affairs Team. The coordinator helps to green agency operations, in accordance with the Climate Act and Governor Hochul’s Executive Order No. 22 (https://www.governor.ny.gov/executive-order/no-22-leading-example-directing-state-agencies-adopt-sustainability-and) , provides education and outreach to staff, leads sustainability reporting for NYSERDA, and assists other agencies with their sustainability efforts.

　　This is a paid internship for current students at an accredited college. The pay rate is from $15 to $18 per hour based on current class year. This internship will ideally begin in April 2024 with the potential to continue until graduation.

　　Interns must be located in New York 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 RESPONSIBILITIES

　　Reviewing and tracking legislation and providing verbal or written updates.

　　Drafting formal business letters.

　　Creating educational content for staff related to sustainability.

　　Conducting outreach to staff to prepare briefing documents and other materials.

　　Tracking legislative responses, agency sustainability projects, etc.

　　Conducting and summarizing research on a variety of topics, including legislation.

　　Preparing reports and proposals.

　　Performing other responsibilities, as assigned.

　　MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

　　Current student an accredited college, preferably pursuing a degree in public policy, political science, energy, or environmental studies.

　　Good writing and communication skills, including excellent attention to detail.

　　Ability to use a land-line phone and voice mail, including comfort with speaking by phone.

　　Ability to work remotely, as needed.

　　Proficient with the Microsoft Office suite of programs and WebEx.

　　Demonstrated ability to research primary and secondary sources.

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

　　Ability to work solo or in a group and follow through on assigned tasks.

　　Strong work ethic.

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