Intern – Undergraduate – Environmental Policy & Review

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Job Description

About the City of Austin and Watershed Protection Department:

The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American Disabilities Act and does not discriminate based on race, creed, color, national origin, sex, gender identity, age, religion, veteran status, disability, or sexual orientation. It also prohibits discrimination based on AIDS, AIDS Related Complex, or HIV status, or perceived risk of HIV infection.

The Watershed Protection Department serves the Austin community by focusing on environmental protection and responsible water management. The Environmental Policy & Review Branch within this department develops and reviews environmental policies, ensuring regulatory compliance and collaborating with government agencies. This internship is specifically within the Environmental Policy Section.

Job Description: Intern – Undergraduate – Environmental Policy & Review

This is a temporary, full-time internship (30-40 hours/week with flexibility and potential for telework) running from June 2nd, 2025 to August 8th, 2025. Onboarding will take place from May 5th-14th, with program orientation on June 4th and closeout on August 6th. The position involves assisting professionals in the department to gain experience in environmental policy.

Key Responsibilities:

• Assisting with the City Council’s resolution on Bird-Friendly Design, including attending meetings, creating content, and supporting subject matter experts.
• Coordinating, administering, or monitoring specific programs as needed.
• Researching, collecting, and organizing data; performing analyses; and preparing reports.
• Participating in problem-solving and discussing recommendations with administrative personnel.
• Assisting with special projects.

Required Skills and Abilities:

• Knowledge of Federal, State, and Local laws and ordinances.
• Knowledge of applicable processes, techniques, and methods; City practices, policies, and procedures; and statistical analysis.
• Strong oral and written communication skills.
• Proficiency in using computers and related software applications.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Ability to operate basic office equipment.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.
• Ability to create clear and concise reports.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Graduation from an accredited high school or equivalent.
• Enrollment in an accredited college or university undergraduate degree program, with some advanced coursework related to the internship program.

Preferred Qualifications: Fields of study in Environmental Law and Regulation, Environmental Economics, Environmental Politics, Environmental Science, or Environmental Planning are preferred.

Physical Demands: The position may require occasionally carrying, lifting, pulling, or pushing up to 20 lbs., climbing, standing, bending/stooping, walking, reaching above shoulder level, and sitting continuously. Travel to multiple locations may be required, contingent upon meeting City of Austin Driver Safety Program standards.

Conditions of Employment: A criminal background investigation, education verification, and completion of I-9 documentation are required by May 2nd, 2025.