Environmental & Political Justice Advocate - Paid Internship

Clean Water Action is a non-profit organization with 160,000 members in Michigan working to empower people to take action to protect America's waters, build healthy communities and to make democracy work for all of us. For 52 years Clean Water Action has succeeded in winning some of the nation's most important environmental protections through grassroots organizing, expert policy research and political advocacy focused on holding elected officials accountable to the public. As an advocacy intern at Clean Water Action, you will be working with our organizing team. Our grassroots organizing team speaks to Michigan residents every day about local issues, informing and educating the public, building support and channeling that support into action.

Currently, we are working with the Take Back Our Power coalition to pass a Michigan state law that comprehensively prohibits monopoly utilities like DTE and Consumers Energy from making state or local political contributions. From issues like holding polluters accountable to taking the big, bold steps that we need to address the climate crisis, political money from major corporations has been a consistent roadblock to passing people-centered policy. We can no longer allow monopoly corporations and corporations seeking state contracts to buy their way out of accountability and drown out the voice of the people.

Responsibilities of internships include:

• Identifying voters and volunteers who will work with us to hold politicians accountable for their votes on environmental and health related issues
• Ensuring, by grassroots organizing and fundraising in the community, that communities are made aware of these issues and given the tools to participate in the solutions
• Aiding community members in writing letters or otherwise contacting their lawmakers on these issues
• Educating registered voters about state and federal candidates we have endorsed and making sure they know how and when to vote
• Participating in occasional press conferences, lobby days, and other events.

We look for candidates who have strong communication skills, and who possess good attention to detail. Candidates must possess cultural competence and a commitment to racial justice and equity, and should have an interest in non-profit or campaign work, policy, or politics. Ideal candidates are comfortable dealing with people from a variety of backgrounds, enjoy connecting with people as a regular part of the job, and have a genuine commitment to making lasting change on these issues. Multilingual candidates strongly encouraged to apply. We do provide extensive training on the job responsibilities and on the issues we cover.

From this opportunity, you will receive training on environmental issues including regular seminars, training in the legislative process and the political arena, and you will develop strong communication and organizational skills. You will be working as part of a highly motivated and dedicated team who are interested in your personal development. There are also opportunities for future permanent positions and career development, along with opportunities for travel to national conferences, and to other offices across the country.

The work schedule can be full or part time (2-3 days/week). We are currently interviewing for immediate hire. Hours are from 2pm to 10:30pm in Ann Arbor. Pay is $18-20/hour plus performance bonuses. This internship could potentially be used for class credit as well, depending on the requirements of the school or program.

These are in person positions. Proof of covid vaccination will be required for applicants for this position. All staff in the office are required to wear masks in inside spaces. N95 or KN95 masks and sanitizer are provided.

Clean Water Action and Clean Water Fund values a diverse workplace. People of color and those from economically disadvantaged communities are particularly encouraged to apply. Clean Water Action is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in hiring on the basis of race, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age, marital status, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic. This policy covers all aspects of employment, including hiring, promotions, terminations, pay, and the work environment.