Founded in 1980, Michigan Environmental Council is a coalition of over 60 environmental and public health organizations. For 38 years, MEC has provided a voice for the environment at the State Capitol. In addition to serving as a clearinghouse of environmental information, MEC develops public policy, educates elected officials and the public, and provides training and support to member organizations.
MEC is an equal opportunity employer.
Policy Internship Program
Michigan Environmental Council’s policy internship program is designed to identify the next generation of leaders working for Michigan’s people and environment, cultivate their talents and shape their future. We seek highly motivated interns who are looking to expand their knowledge of public policy and environmental issues while building a base of contacts in the environmental community and beyond.
Every spring, summer and fall we give several talented college students direct experience in environmental policy research and advocacy. They give us the fresh energy and ideas we need to rebuild Michigan’s economy while protecting our natural resources and enhancing our quality of life.
We tailor our internships to match each person’s skills, expertise and goals, and offer a variety of experiences to make an intern’s time here as valuable as possible. Interns typically undertake short- and long-term policy research projects, and have opportunities to meet with state policymakers, take part in special events and field trips, and attend committee meetings and sessions of the Legislature. They work closely with our policy experts in energy, transportation, environmental health, water, agriculture, environmental justice, and natural resources.
Internships at MEC are unpaid, but college credit can be arranged. Our office is conveniently located in downtown Lansing, three blocks from the Capitol. Schedules are flexible; 15 hours per week is preferred.
Ideal applicants will:
- Be a junior, senior or graduate student, or have graduated the previous semester.
- Have knowledge of research methods to collect and analyze relevant information.
- Have a basic understanding of current environmental policy issues and the public policy process.
- Be self-motivated and self-directed, seeking guidance when appropriate.
- Have a good sense of humor and a strong ability to collaborate with others.
How to Apply
To apply, please submit a cover letter, résumé and a short writing sample -- as one PDF -- to internships@environmentalcouncil.org
Deadlines
June 25 for fall internships
November 5 for spring internships
March 19 for summer internships