California Climate Policy Intern

The California Climate Policy Intern at Environmental Defense Fund will support the California Political Affairs team by tracking budget developments, conducting research on the cap-and-trade program, and contributing to advocacy strategies. Responsibilities include literature reviews, data analysis, and preparing communication materials. Candidates should be enrolled in or recent graduates of relevant programs, possess strong research and communication skills, and have an interest in climate policy and equity.
Program/Department OverviewEDF’s State Affairs team drives ambitious and effective climate policy through legislative and regulatory action at the state level. Grounded in science and economics, we develop and advocate for policies that drive meaningful climate progress. Our priorities are advanced through a multifaceted advocacy strategy and informed by our engagement with a diverse range of stakeholders— including environmental allies, environmental justice partners, and willing industry leaders— to achieve shared climate goals.Overall FunctionThe intern will support EDF's California Political Affairs team in advancing policy and budget advocacy efforts across the state. Key responsibilities include tracking budget developments, conducting in-depth research on critical issues related to California's cap-and-trade program, and contributing to broader policy and advocacy strategies. This role will involve performing literature reviews, analyzing budget documents, monitoring implementation efforts, and synthesizing findings into actionable insights. The intern will report to the Project Manager of California State Affairs and collaborate with a diverse team of climate, economic, legal, and political experts.Key ResponsibilitiesTasks will include but are not limited to:Conduct a comprehensive literature review of existing materials on California’s cap-and-trade program, focusing on developing an advocacy strategy that incorporates an affordability perspective.Analyze and compile data on investments made through the State’s Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund, with a focus on specific regions across California.Track relevant developments in the California budget process, with a focus on the implementation of the funds from the State’s 2024 climate bond.Support the preparation of factsheets, blogs, policy briefs, and communications materials to support EDF’s cap and trade reauthorization strategy.Attend internal and external meetings to take notes, provide input and updates, and synthesize action items and takeaways.Support EDF’s California Political Affairs team on related projects as needed and/or according to the intern’s interest.Participate in advancing EDF Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) goals in which people from all backgrounds and experiences feel connected, included, and empowered to address the environmental and organizational challenges in alignment with EDF values.QualificationsEnrolled in or a recent graduate of an undergraduate degree program and/or demonstrated interest in climate policy, environmental policy, environmental justice and equity, or climate/environmental science.Strong research skills and ability to synthesize information from multiple sources.Experience with self-directed research projects.Ability to develop a knowledge base around climate policy, and/or coursework in climate policy, climate science, environmental policy, environmental science, energy policy, or other relevant areas.Interest in equity and the distributional impacts of climate policy.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, paired with ability to work independently to complete projects.Ability to balance multiple priorities and workstreams.Demonstrates initiative and problem-solving skills.Appreciation for diverse viewpoints, backgrounds, and perspectives.LocationU.S. Remote or Hybrid out of an EDF office in San Francisco, CATermSummer 2025 (10 Weeks)HoursFull-time (35 hr/week)CompensationThis internship would involve compensation for work paid at a rate competitive with leading non-profits at $18/hr.Application MaterialsInterested applicants should attach their cover letter and resume to the EDF application.