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Climate Policy Intern Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Sierra Club

Climate Intern

San Diego, CA · On-site

Climate Intern Department: San Diego Chapter Location: San Diego, CA Reports To: Deputy Chapter ... Intern will conduct policy and environmental research, developed educational and campaign materials ...

Sierra Club

Climate Intern

San Diego, CA · On-site

Climate Intern Department: San Diego Chapter Location: San Diego, CA Reports To: Deputy Chapter ... Intern will conduct policy and environmental research, developed educational and campaign materials ...

Xpansiv

Business Development Intern

New York, NY

$30 - $35/hr

Position Summary As a Registry Business Development Intern, you will support Xpansiv's Registry ... policy, energy, climate finance, business development, sales, consulting, or technology.

Xpansiv

Business Development Intern

New York, NY · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

Position Summary As a Registry Business Development Intern, you will support Xpansiv's Registry ... policy, energy, climate finance, business development, sales, consulting, or technology.

CALSTART

Policy Development & Support Intern

$19 - $21/hr

... climate change and support economic growth. CALSTART works with businesses, organizations ... Intern Project : Project support for policy directors and member engagement project. Intern Project ...

CALSTART

Policy Development & Support Intern

$19 - $21/hr

... climate change and support economic growth. CALSTART works with businesses, organizations ... Intern Project : Project support for policy directors and member engagement project. Intern Project ...

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Climate Policy Intern information

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How much do climate policy intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for climate policy intern in the United States is $17.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a climate policy intern do?

A Climate Policy Intern supports organizations, such as government agencies, NGOs, or research institutions, in developing and analyzing policies related to climate change. Their responsibilities often include conducting research on climate legislation, helping draft policy recommendations, attending meetings or hearings, and preparing reports or presentations. Interns may also assist with stakeholder engagement and tracking the progress of current climate initiatives. This role provides valuable experience for those interested in environmental policy, advocacy, or public administration.

What types of projects and collaborations can I expect as a climate policy intern?

As a Climate Policy Intern, you can expect to work on a variety of projects such as researching policy impacts, analyzing climate legislation, and assisting in the preparation of reports or presentations for stakeholders. Interns often collaborate closely with policy analysts, advocacy teams, and sometimes external partners like NGOs or governmental agencies. This role typically involves attending team meetings, contributing to brainstorming sessions, and supporting outreach efforts. The collaborative environment provides valuable exposure to the policymaking process and offers networking opportunities that can enhance your understanding of climate advocacy and policy development.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a climate policy intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Climate Policy Intern, you need a strong background in environmental studies, public policy, or related fields, along with analytical research and writing skills. Familiarity with policy analysis tools, data visualization software, and proficiency in Microsoft Office or Google Suite are commonly expected. Excellent communication, attention to detail, and the ability to work collaboratively are crucial soft skills that distinguish top candidates. These competencies enable interns to effectively support policy development, communicate findings, and contribute to impactful climate solutions.

What is the difference between Climate Policy Intern vs Climate Research Assistant?

AspectClimate Policy InternClimate Research Assistant
Required CredentialsUndergraduate or graduate student, knowledge of climate policyUndergraduate or graduate student, background in environmental science or related field
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, NGOs, think tanks, policy-focused organizationsResearch labs, academic institutions, environmental organizations
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily in policy development and advocacy sectorsPrimarily in scientific research and data analysis sectors
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles related to climate policy developmentUnderstanding roles focused on scientific research in climate science

While both roles involve environmental work, a Climate Policy Intern focuses on developing and analyzing climate policies within governmental or advocacy settings, whereas a Climate Research Assistant concentrates on scientific research, data collection, and analysis related to climate science. The roles often overlap in credentials and work environment but differ in their primary focus and industry application.

More about Climate Policy Intern jobs

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What are the most commonly searched types of Climate Policy jobs?

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Who are the top companies hiring for Climate Policy Intern jobs?

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What states have the most Climate Policy Intern jobs?

States with the most job openings for Climate Policy Intern jobs include:

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Climate Policy Intern jobs near you
Infographic showing various Climate Policy Intern job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,436 per year, or $17 per hour.

Climate Intern

San Diego, CA • On-site

Sierra Club
See more jobs at Sierra Clubexternal

Temporary

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Job Title: Climate Intern
Department: San Diego Chapter
Location: San Diego, CA
Reports To: Deputy Chapter Director
Supervises: N/A
Duration: 15-20 hrs/week for 5 months
Context: At the Sierra Club, we believe in the power of interdependence. Together, we remain committed to the fight for a healthy climate built on a foundation of environmental, racial, economic, and gender justice - a future where all people benefit from a healthy, thriving planet and a direct connection to nature. As the climate crisis and deeply entrenched systemic racism all fuel injustice, we will continue to fight for a bold, transformational agenda that recognizes the interconnectedness between our planet, our humanity, and our future. By recognizing that our destinies are tied, we continue to name that all things are fundamentally connected, and the overlap between ecology, race, gender, and representative government will move to either advance our collective humanity or to oppress it. Sierra Club has close to 700 staff across the country and a network of 64 local chapters that are led and fueled by thousands of volunteers. We are also proud to be a unionized employer, with three labor unions representing more than half of our employees.
Scope: This intern will support climate action, conservation, and grassroots organizing campaigns by assisting with community outreach, volunteer engagement, and advocacy initiatives. Intern will conduct policy and environmental research, developed educational and campaign materials, and helped organize public events, meetings, and volunteer activities. Collaborate with staff, community partners, and local stakeholders to advance environmental and chapter priorities, promote sustainable policies, and protect natural resources throughout the San Diego region. Assist with communications, data tracking, and campaign coordination to strengthen public engagement and support organizational goals.
Job activities include but are not limited to:
  1. Assist with a variety of Chapter initiatives that advance Sierra Club San Diego's conservation, climate, environmental justice, and community engagement priorities. Responsibilities may include supporting campaigns, research, outreach, events, and other projects based on organizational needs and emerging priorities.
  2. Support staff, volunteer leaders, and committees by assisting with meeting coordination, communications, scheduling, data management, research, and preparation of educational or advocacy materials. Help ensure Chapter programs operate efficiently and effectively.
  3. Assist with volunteer recruitment, onboarding, retention, and engagement efforts while helping build meaningful relationships with community members, partner organizations, and coalition groups. Support community events, workshops, meetings, and outreach activities that strengthen the Chapter's impact.
  4. Conduct research, monitor public processes, and assist with advocacy efforts related to local environmental and conservation priorities. Activities may include attending public meetings, preparing summaries or educational materials, supporting committee work, and helping advance Chapter policy goals and community-based initiatives.
  5. Provide flexible support for Chapter-wide initiatives, including grant-funded projects, conservation programs, organizing campaigns, environmental restoration efforts, and other strategic priorities as assigned. The intern will have opportunities to gain experience across multiple program areas while contributing to the Chapter's mission.
  6. Support Sierra Club San Diego's climate policy and advocacy efforts by researching, tracking, and analyzing Climate Action Plan implementation, local government actions, and related policy opportunities, leading advocacy efforts across the county to implement climate policies and support committee members, partners, and community stakeholders.

The successful candidate must demonstrate the following skills, experience and competencies:
  • Strong communication skills. Demonstrates effective written and verbal communication and the ability to interact professionally with volunteers, staff, community members, and partner organizations.
  • Organization and time management. Able to manage multiple tasks, prioritize responsibilities, meet deadlines, and work both independently and collaboratively in a dynamic environment.
  • Research and critical thinking skills. Able to gather, synthesize, and communicate information to support advocacy, education, outreach, and organizational priorities.
  • Commitment to environmental and social justice. Demonstrates an interest in environmental protection, community engagement, public policy, or related fields, with a willingness to learn and contribute to Sierra Club's mission.
  • Committed to evolution. You are committed to continuously deepening and evolving your own understanding of systems of oppression through study, openness, and humility.

The strongest candidates will also demonstrate the following skills, experience and competencies:
  • Familiarity with environmental issues, public policy, or community organizing. Coursework, volunteer experience, or demonstrated interest in climate, conservation, environmental justice, or civic engagement is beneficial.
  • Experience working with volunteers or community groups. Comfortable collaborating with diverse stakeholders, building relationships, and supporting community-based initiatives.
  • Knowledge of local government or nonprofit organizations. Familiarity with public meetings, advocacy processes, grant-funded programs, or nonprofit operations is a plus but not required.
  • Experience with communications and digital engagement. Ability to assist with social media, newsletters, presentations, event promotion, or other outreach materials is valuable.
  • Adaptability and initiative. Demonstrates curiosity, flexibility, and a willingness to take on a variety of projects while learning new skills and contributing wherever support is needed.

$20 - $20 an hour
Compensation and Benefits
The salary range for this position is $20/hour with an expectation of 15-20 hours a week.
This is a category 99, non-represented, temporaryposition.
Sierra Club values the expertise and talents of foreign nationals. Sierra Club sponsors both nonimmigrant and immigrant visas when certain criteria are met, based on immigration laws and organizational needs. Such sponsorship is at the discretion of the Department Head and Sierra Club People Department in consultation with the employee's manager. The Sierra Club cannot guarantee the approval of a visa petition. The Sierra Club is an equal opportunity employer committed to workforce belonging.
To Apply
The Sierra Club provides equal employment and advancement opportunities to all staff members. Employment decisions are based on merit, qualifications, lived experience and skills. The Sierra Club does not discriminate in employment opportunities or practices on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, immigration status, socioeconomic status, ancestry, age, size, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, familial status, veteran status, disability, AIDS/HIV status, medical condition, prior conviction, arrest history, traits historically associated with race, including, but not limited to, hair texture and protective hairstyles, or any other characteristic protected by law.
The Sierra Club values applicants who are people that identify as Black, Indigenous, and other minoritized groups; women; queer, transgender, gender non-conforming, and gender fluid people.
Explore, enjoy and protect the planet.
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.

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