Policy Intern

Catawba Riverkeeper•Charlotte, NC

23h•$13

About The Position

Catawba Riverkeeper Foundation (Catawba Riverkeeper) was founded in 1997 as the 21st waterkeeper organization in the U.S. Now, proudly part of an international movement that boasts over 400 local organizations, we preserve, protect and restore the waters of the Catawba-Wateree River Basin for all through education, advocacy, and engagement. Our 5,000 square mile river basin includes over 8,900 miles of waterways across 26 counties in North and South Carolina. The Policy Intern will facilitate the position of a Summer Elections Associate who will be responsible for researching candidates for office in our basin and assisting with the execution of our organizational involvement in the 2026 election. In this role, the Intern will lay the foundation for legislative success by helping create a clear path through the election and lift up “conservation” in the electoral process. An ideal candidate will be extremely driven, passionate about non-partisan politics, able to work independently, have an eye for detail, eager to talk with strangers, and have experience in event planning.

Requirements

Exhibits a passion for the mission of Catawba Riverkeeper.
Successfully pass a standard criminal background review.
Ability to work some nights and weekends.
Able to lift/move 35 pounds.
Willing to serve all guests equally regardless of their race, color, religion, national origin, age, gender, marital status, disability, veteran status, genetic information, gender identity and/or sexual orientation.

Nice To Haves

Preferred coursework or experience in political science, communications, public engagement, etc.
Comfortable working autonomously as well as working in a team environment.
Experience in event planning.
Preferred, but not required, Experience with ArcGIS.
Ability to maintain an organized and detailed workflow with changing variables

Responsibilities

Proudly serves the local community, serving as a brand ambassador, promoting awareness and advocacy for the Catawba Riverkeeper and our mission.
Researches candidates for the North Carolina and South Carolina state legislatures, county commissions, and other local races.
Analyzes campaign finance reports.
Assists with the planning and execution of election events.
Tracks and attends public election events.
Researches other interest groups’ priorities and activities during the election.
Plans summer “field trips” for legislators and Piedmont Promise partner organizations.
Develops election engagement, and civic education content (blogs, social media posts, etc.).
Assists with identifying similar legislative concepts to piece together for legislation.
Assists organizing staff with public outreach events.
Assists in the process of researching and drafting legislation.
Other duties as assigned.
Exemplifies the Catawba Riverkeeper mission statement and supports staff, departments and leadership in pursuing and achieving goals.