Fall 2009 internship positions now open! 2 different internships are open! Interviews will be scheduled Aug 31 - Sept 4.
The Sustainability Office at UNC Chapel Hill works with students, staff, faculty, administrators, and community members to catalyze the development and implementation of sustainable policies, practices, and curricula. Interns will become familiar with the many sustainability practices, policies, and curricula at UNC, while receiving hands-on experience developing communication tools, supporting Sustainability Office initiatives, and assessing sustainable practices at UNC Chapel Hill. All internships are competitive and require an in-person interview.
Internship 1: Sustainability Reporting & Documentation Internship (2 internship positions available)
Responsibilities and projects will include:
- Researching, documenting, and tracking various sustainable practices on campus, closely mirroring the AASHE Sustainability Tracking, Assessment & Rating System (STARS). This project will involve working with a spreadsheet and/or database program to input and track information, though programming skills are not necessary.
- Working with partner departments and organizations to document sustainable practices at UNC Chapel Hill. This will involve excellent communication and research skills to fully document accomplishments and practices.
- Interpreting information on sustainability programs and practices to identify trends, communicate accomplishments, and provide substantive recommendations for improvements.
- Assisting in the facilitation of campus outreach events, as needed. This primarily refers to Campus Sustainability Day (11:00-3:00, Oct. 27).
Required qualifications:
- Undergraduate or graduate student at UNC Chapel Hill in good academic standing, or a recent UNC graduate
- Availability to intern 10-12 hours per week on a regular schedule for the full duration of the semester
- Demonstrated experience/interest in research, particularly institutional research. A strong knowledge of existing sustainability practices and accomplishments at UNC is highly desirable.
- Strong interpersonal skills, persistence, and initiative. Much of this data has not been collected previously. Developing good working relationships with campus departments able to access/develop this data will be key to the project’s ongoing success.
- Demonstrated understanding and interest in sustainability
- Willingness to assist with special projects and department events as needed (e.g. hosting table at special event, distributing light bulbs, etc.)
- Ability to work independently and receive feedback
Internship 2: Campus Community Outreach Internship (1 internship position available)
Responsibilities and projects will include:
- Assisting in the coordination and facilitation of campus outreach events, including Campus Sustainability Day (11:00-3:00, Oct. 27).
- Developing communication tools and facilitating programs that promote energy conservation amongst students, faculty, and staff.
- Writing copy for publications that document and promote sustainable practices, policies, and programs on campus.
- Developing and promoting the “Carolina Green” pledge campaign.
- Updating and maintaining web-based outreach, including websites, Facebook profile, blog, Google Maps, online calendars, and more.
- Working with partner departments and organizations to document sustainable practices at UNC Chapel Hill and other peer universities.
Required qualifications:
- Undergraduate or graduate student at UNC Chapel Hill in good academic standing, or a recent UNC graduate
- Availability to intern 10-12 hours per week on a regular schedule for the full duration of the semester
- Demonstrated understanding and interest in sustainability
- Demonstrated ability to effectively communicate information such that it is personal and relevant to audiences
- Willingness to assist with special projects and department events as needed (e.g. hosting table at special event, distributing light bulbs, etc.)
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively
How to apply for all internship positions:
Applications for the Fall 2009 semester are now being accepted. Interviews will be conducted August 31 – September 4. To apply, please email a cover letter and resume to:
Brian Cain, Research & Outreach Manager, UNC Sustainability Office
E-mail: Brian.Cain [at] fac.unc.edu
*Be sure your cover letter explains what unique skills or experience you would bring to our team! Participation in student organizations, artistic or technical skills, website or programming experience, and your academic concentration are just a few examples of qualities you may wish to highlight.
Academic Credit for all internship positions:
While internship positions are currently unpaid, they may satisfy internship credits in some academic departments. The Research & Outreach Manager serves as the internship coordinator and is responsible for communication with the participating academic supervisor, if necessary. However, students are ultimately responsible for coordinating such credit opportunities in their respective departments.
