What are the responsibilities and job description for the Sustainability Policy and Legal Intern position at NYC Department of Housing Preservation & Development?
The NYC Department of Buildings is responsible for ensuring the safe and lawful use of buildings and properties by enforcing the NYC Construction Codes, Energy Code and Zoning Resolution. We facilitate compliant development with integrity, efficiency, and professionalism. We are committed to becoming a premier municipal building organization, dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for all New Yorkers and making our city safer. We are committed to improving our performance and developing procedures that are streamlined, understandable and transparent.
About The Team
The Sustainability Policy and Legal Affairs unit supports the Bureau of Sustainability in developing and implementing policy initiatives, local laws, and rules related to Local Law 97, the Energy Code, and other sustainability-related legislation. The team provides legal and policy research, drafts rules and legislation, conducts data analysis and modeling, and ensures compliance with city and state climate goals. Their work is integral to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and advancing New York City’s climate policies.
NOTE: This summer internship is for up to 13 weeks, starting from the first day of the internship and ending no later than September 5, 2025. Interns are expected to work 35 hours per week in person.
Position Responsibilities
Minimum Qualifications
Candidates must be currently enrolled in a graduate degree program in an accredited college, university or law school.
Preferred Skills
As a prospective employee of the City of New York, you may be eligible for federal loan forgiveness programs and state repayment assistance programs. For more information, please visit the U.S. Department of Education’s website at https://studentaid.gov/pslf/.
Residency Requirement
New York City Residency is not required for this position.
Additional Information
The City of New York is an inclusive equal opportunity employer committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and providing a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based upon any legally protected status or protected characteristic, including but not limited to an individual's sex, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, veteran status, gender identity, or pregnancy.
About The Team
The Sustainability Policy and Legal Affairs unit supports the Bureau of Sustainability in developing and implementing policy initiatives, local laws, and rules related to Local Law 97, the Energy Code, and other sustainability-related legislation. The team provides legal and policy research, drafts rules and legislation, conducts data analysis and modeling, and ensures compliance with city and state climate goals. Their work is integral to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and advancing New York City’s climate policies.
NOTE: This summer internship is for up to 13 weeks, starting from the first day of the internship and ending no later than September 5, 2025. Interns are expected to work 35 hours per week in person.
Position Responsibilities
- Conduct policy research to support sustainability initiatives.
- Analyze federal, state, local, and international policies.
- Draft and edit policy memos, external communications, educational materials, and responses to inquiries.
- Assist in the development of building sustainability policies and compliance strategies.
- Work collaboratively with Sustainability team members, agency colleagues, and external partners.
- Participate in special projects and assignments related to climate policy.
- Pursuing a degree in law, political science, public policy, sustainability, environmental sciences, or a related field.
- Interest in sustainability, climate policy, civil society, and New York City government.
Minimum Qualifications
Candidates must be currently enrolled in a graduate degree program in an accredited college, university or law school.
Preferred Skills
- Strong writing, critical thinking, and analytical skills - Ability to work independently and collaboratively on multiple assignments - Proficiency in Microsoft Office programs
As a prospective employee of the City of New York, you may be eligible for federal loan forgiveness programs and state repayment assistance programs. For more information, please visit the U.S. Department of Education’s website at https://studentaid.gov/pslf/.
Residency Requirement
New York City Residency is not required for this position.
Additional Information
The City of New York is an inclusive equal opportunity employer committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and providing a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based upon any legally protected status or protected characteristic, including but not limited to an individual's sex, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, veteran status, gender identity, or pregnancy.
Salary : $18 - $27
