Tuesday, September 27, 2011

Sustainability Research Internship: ICLEI USA

ICLEI USA is seeking research interns (volunteer basis). See the job posting at http://www.icleiusa.org/about-iclei/jobs/sustainability-research-internship


Sustainability Research Internship (volunteer basis)

Background

ICLEI-Local Governments for Sustainability USA (ICLEI) is the largest and oldest association of local governments in the United States that is focused specifically on sustainability, climate protection, and climate change adaptation. The organization has approximately 575 local government members, and has recently expanded its focus to serve all local governments. ICLEI provides four core services to local governments (training, technical & process support, information sharing, and network building) along with leading-edge climate and sustainability tools and resources.
As part of this suite of sustainability tools and resources, ICLEI is currently developing the STAR Community Index™ (STAR), a pioneering strategic planning and performance management system for U.S. communities. STAR will offer local governments of any size a roadmap for improving community sustainability by addressing intertwining economic, environmental and social concerns. For more information on STAR, please see: http://www.icleiusa.org/sustainability/star-community-index.

General Internship Description

ICLEI is currently updating its review of the landscape of sustainability indicators, tools and best practices. ICLEI seeks volunteer interns to assist ICLEI staff in conducting a thorough review and analysis of the field of indicators, management tools and best practices. This regular update to ICLEI’s baseline research will be used to help inform the development of STAR.

Intern Responsibilities

  • Work directly with ICLEI staff to review sustainability indicators, tools and best practices either existing or in development;
  • Conduct interviews with experts in the field of sustainability;
  • Submit research findings into a cloud database used as a clearinghouse for indicators, tools and best practices;
  • Engage in STAR’s Annual Meeting, take summary notes at various meetings of the Technical Advisory Committees and provide general support.

Intern Qualifications

Applicants must have strong research and writing skills combined with a basic knowledge of the field of sustainability. A strong academic background is required, but specific sustainability experience is not.
Other beneficial skills include:
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills;
  • Editing and proofreading skills, with attention to detail;
  • Ability to work independently under general direction;
  • Basic knowledge of the field of local government research.

Position Location

This position is based in Washington, DC and requires a commitment of at least 20 hours per week for 10-16 weeks (negotiable) starting in October 2011.

Applications

To apply, please send a cover letter, resume, and a research sample of any length to art.vonlehe@iclei.org. ICLEI USA is an equal opportunity employer.

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