Sustainability Policy and Legal Intern

The Sustainability Policy and Legal Intern at the NYC Department of Buildings will engage in various responsibilities including conducting policy research to further sustainability initiatives, analyzing both domestic and international regulations, and drafting important policy memos and educational materials. The intern will also assist in developing compliance strategies crucial for building sustainability policies as well as participate in special projects related to climate policy, making every day's work impactful.

To qualify for the Sustainability Policy and Legal Intern position at NYC Department of Buildings, candidates must be enrolled in a graduate degree program in an accredited university, college or law school. Ideal candidates will have a background or field of study in law, political science, public policy, sustainability, or environmental sciences, along with a demonstrated interest in sustainability and climate policy within the context of New York City governance.

The internship for the Sustainability Policy and Legal Intern at the NYC Department of Buildings is structured for a duration of up to 13 weeks. This engagement starts from the initiation of the internship and will conclude no later than September 5, 2025, making it a perfect summer role for aspiring professionals in the field.

Interns at the NYC Department of Buildings are welcomed into a professional and supportive work environment that emphasizes inclusivity and diversity. The department is committed to creating a workplace free from discrimination and harassment. Interns will have the opportunity to collaborate closely with the Sustainability team and engage with broader agency efforts, encouraging a culture of shared learning and growth.

During the internship, the Sustainability Policy and Legal Intern will develop a range of valuable skills including policy analysis, effective communication, and stakeholder collaboration. Interns will learn to draft clear and impactful policy documents while gaining insights into the workings of local government processes and sustainability laws, equipping them with essential tools for their future careers.

When responding to this question, share specific examples of projects or research you've undertaken related to sustainability. Explain your role and the impact of your contributions, highlighting any relevant coursework or volunteering experiences that demonstrate your commitment to environmental issues.

In answering this question, describe your methodology for conducting thorough research. Discuss your ability to synthesize information from various sources and how you evaluate the applicability of different policies, citing specific experiences where you’ve utilized these skills.

To answer this effectively, connect your interest in sustainability and climate policy with the specific projects or initiatives of the NYC Department of Buildings. Share your passion for urban development and how you'll contribute to impactful sustainability goals, showing that you are informed about the agency's work.

Respond by discussing notable challenges, such as climate change, policy compliance, or community engagement. Emphasize your understanding of urban dynamics and propose possible solutions or innovative strategies to address these challenges during the conversation.

Highlight your conflict resolution skills by demonstrating your ability to listen and engage respectfully with differing viewpoints. Discuss a situation where you've successfully navigated such conflicts, focusing on collaboration and finding common ground in policy discussions.

Illustrate your answer with a specific example where you've had to break down complex information for a diverse audience, such as creating educational materials or presenting findings. This showcases your communication skills and the importance of clarity in policy work.

Discuss the specific tools or software you’re familiar with (like Excel, R, or specific analytical frameworks) and provide an example of how you've applied them in past projects, emphasizing the insights gained from analysis and their potential application to sustainability policy.

Prepare to articulate the importance of Local Law 97 in terms of its impact on carbon emission reduction and alignment with the city’s broader climate goals. Discuss its implications for building codes and how it represents a framework for sustainable urban development in NYC.

Identify specific personal strengths relevant to the internship, such as analytical skills, attention to detail, and interpersonal communication. Use past experiences to provide examples of how these strengths have been beneficial in a professional or academic setting, especially related to sustainability.

Discuss the resources or platforms you utilize to stay updated on sustainability policies, such as specific journals, websites, or webinars. Mentioning specific sources or thought leaders shows your genuine interest and commitment to the field.