Policy and Research Internship

~ The National Marine Sanctuary Foundation supports and strengthens the national system of marine sanctuaries and plays a vital role in connecting the American public to the ocean through these special places. ~

By actively engaging both Congress and the Administration, NMSF works diligently to increase federal resources and support for national marine sanctuaries and to focus attention on legislative and executive initiatives affecting sanctuaries.

Through sanctuaries, NMSF seeks to promote sound ocean policies that improve resource protection, strengthen scientific understanding, forge partnerships, and enhance ocean governance. Through our efforts, national leaders become better equipped to make informed and coordinated decisions that can improve the overall health and sustainability of the ocean, coastal, and Great Lakes ecosystems now and for the future.

Internship Overview  

The Policy & Research Intern's primary responsibility will be to assist the NMSF Policy and Conservation Director with ongoing programs designed to achieve the goals listed below. 

Responsibilities 

Legislative Goals: 

• Maintain and increase sanctuaries budget and appropriations levels
• Enlarge, expand and strengthen the National Marine Sanctuary System
• Engage on legislation and regulatory actions directly affecting sanctuaries 

Education and Outreach Goals: 

• Plan and manage Capitol Hill Ocean Week, the premier ocean policy conference held annually in DC (spring internship only)
• Engage and build the National Marine Sanctuary Caucus
• Arrange briefings and meetings promoting sanctuary-related issues and success stories
• Support communities interested in nominating and designating new sanctuaries

Activities: 

• Tasks associated with fulfilling these goals are likely to include researching and analyzing sanctuary-related policies and issues;
• Generating target lists for Congressional and partner engagement;
• Developing and executing an outreach strategy;
• Drafting letters and other communications materials, and
• Planning briefings and meetings with Members of Congress and Congressional Committees, the Administration, and partner entities. 

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree; master's degree or near completion preferred
• Exceptional writing and analytical skills
• Experience creating communications materials
• Ability to perform under tight deadlines
• Demonstrated initiative, ability to work both independently and with others
• Attention to detail and highly organized
• Ability to work quickly and prioritize multiple projects
• Familiarity with a range of software, including Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint
• Experience working with the Hill and/or marine and/or environmental organizations a plus  

Compensation: This internship provides a $500 monthly stipend.  

To Apply 

Please use the email address below to send cover letter, resume, 1-2 writing samples (3 pages max per sample) and 3 professional references, with subject line ‘NMSF Policy & Research Internship'.