Policy Intern - part time

Policy Intern

The Pontchartrain Conservancy (PC) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that seeks research-based practical solutions for preserving and restoring the Lake Pontchartrain Basin. Our strengths are our depth of scientific knowledge and understanding of the pertinent challenges affecting the basin region, as well as our proven-track record in finding practical solutions.

POSITION SUMMARY:
The Policy Intern will help advance the goals of the Restore the Mississippi River Delta (MRD) coalition in southern Louisiana. The MRD is a coalition of Environmental Defense Fund, National Audubon Society, National Wildlife Federation, and Pontchartrain Conservancy. It includes national and regional partners who advocate for bold local, state and federal action on large-scale restoration projects that will restore coastal Louisiana’s deteriorating wetlands and, in the process, protect people, wildlife, and jobs. The MRD
works to secure and protect funding for coastal restoration, educate and engage citizens across the coast on Louisiana’s land-loss crisis, and give them the tools needed to adapt to the changing landscape. The Outreach Intern will be based out of Pontchartrain Conservancy’s Office in New Orleans, and the MRD Office in New Orleans, as well as some remote work, while working collaboratively with team members from multiple organizations to support MRD outreach and engagement activities.  The Louisiana State Policy Intern will work closely with PC’s coalition partners on the MRD state policy committee to advance advocacy efforts for key coastal restoration projects, assist with research on longterm funding opportunities for coastal restoration projects, and help educate incoming elected officials on coastal issues in the state.
This is a great opportunity to work with coastal communities, coastal scientists, policymakers, and a network of environmental NGOs to help Louisiana’s people, wildlife and economy adapt and thrive in the face of climate change.

In this role you will:
- Work with a dynamic group of coalition partners to strategically advocate for coastal restoration initiatives in Louisiana.
- Support the State Policy Committee Coordinator in planning committee meetings and activities, arranging logistics, and taking notes.
- Research on various coastal policy issues, such as long-term funding strategies and finance mechanisms that can support the state’s coastal restoration program into the future.
- Assist with coalition advocacy activities and events during the Spring 2025 legislative session.
- Contribute to developing the framework for an advocacy campaign for longterm funding for coastal restoration.
- Provide support to the team by assisting with organizational needs, such as meeting scheduling, coordination, and internal communications.
- Assist the State Policy Committee Chair and Coordinator on other projects as requested
- Participate and contribute as a team member of both PC and the MRD

The ideal candidate will possess:
- Demonstrated ability to be a self-starter and to work well in a collaborative environment
- Experience in organizing successful meetings and events
- Experience with WordPress, Microsoft Office, Outlook, SharePoint, Google Docs, Zoom and Canva
- Effective written and oral communication skills, good copy-editing skills preferred
- Demonstrated experience in problem-solving and being proactive in the face of challenges
 

Skills and qualifications desired but not required:
- Enrolled in/ recent graduate of an undergraduate or graduate degree program with coursework in political science, state government and/or environmental policy.
- Familiarity with Louisiana coastal communities
- Experience or demonstrated interest in Louisiana state politics and/or coastal restoration.
- Excellent written and oral communication skills.
- Must be well organized, motivated, and detail-oriented.
- Ability to multi-task, prioritize and meet deadlines.
- Ability to work in a team setting and have the ability to work independently when projects are due.
- Demonstrate self-awareness, cultural competency and inclusivity, and ability to work with
colleagues and stakeholders across diverse cultures and backgrounds.
- Demonstrate initiative and problem solving skills.
 

Location
Louisiana Remote, with hybrid work in a New Orleans, LA based office.
 

Travel Requirements: There will be regular local and regional travel in this role; with the possibility of one or two overnight trips. Candidate must have a valid driver’s license and reliable form of transportation for such travel.
Timing: For this position we expect the Policy Intern to work 8-10 hours per week on average plus some extra time around events, retreats and other busy MRD times. We aim to start this position in December 2024, and it will run through the end of July 2025.
Compensation: This position is paid and will reflect the candidate’s level of experience. Mileage and other expenses for travel and work are fully reimbursed..

Qualified applicants seeking consideration should forward a cover letter expressing their interest, qualifications and experience and a resume to frank@scienceforourcoast.org. Applications accepted through December 5, 2024. No inquiries please—candidates will be notified of follow-up interviews.

PC provides equal employment and advancement opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment, without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, pregnancy, gender, disability, national origin, ethnic background, citizenship, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.