Careers

WMEAC Fund Development and Events Intern

Position Summary:

This position is designed to offer an intern a substantive learning experience in the field of fund development with a focus on writing, database management, annual fund, membership development and events.

The WMEAC Fund Development and Events Intern will work closely with the Director of Development to implement fund development projects and tasks including membership management, campaign development and implementation, donor stewardship and donor data management. In addition, the intern may work closely with various committees participating in the development, planning and implementation of WMEAC fundraising and program events. Tasks will include committee support, event planning and day of show event management.

This internship is intended for a student or recent graduate interested in acquiring experience within a professional setting and developing relationships within the West Michigan business and non-profit community. Intern stipend is available.

Qualifications:

The ideal candidate will have:

• Integrity
• Respect and appreciation for volunteers and colleagues
• Experience coordinating events, either on campus of in the community
• A basic understanding of fund development principles and processes
• A basic understanding of community partnerships and sponsorship models
• Strong organizational skills
• Potential leadership capacities
• Ability to keep meeting notes
• Familiarity with Microsoft Word, Excel, and Google Docs
• Familiarity with social media
• Ability to obtain pricing quotes on event items i.e. centerpieces, linens, high-tops, chairs
• Willingness to distribute fliers and posters to local hotspots
• Ability to work occasional nights or weekends
• Basic knowledge of common environmental issues

Hours & Compensation:

A flexible schedule of 8 – 20 hours per week, to be arranged by intern and staff. Some work can be done independently if intern has access to necessary tools outside of the office. Attendance of WMEAC events is also expected, when student’s schedule permits. Intern will receive a $500 stipend at the conclusion of the internship contract agreement.

Organization Background:

WMEAC (West Michigan Environmental Action Council) is a nonprofit membership organization founded in 1968 that has been active in issues ranging from banning DDT, critical dunes preservation and the Michigan bottle bill, to contemporary issues such as water quality and community sustainability.

To Apply:

Interested persons should submit a resume, cover letter, and application online at wmeac.org/internships.

West Michigan Environmental Action Council is committed to the principle of equal employment opportunity for all employees and to providing employees with a work environment free of unlawful discrimination and harassment. Our Board of Directors, staff, and interns are committed to enhancing and celebrating diversity in all its forms. All employment decisions at West Michigan Environmental Action Council are based on business needs, job requirements and individual qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion or belief, national, social or ethnic origin, sex (including pregnancy), age, physical, mental or sensory disability, HIV status, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, marital, civil union or domestic partnership status, past or present military service, family medical history or genetic information, family or parental status, or any other status protected by the laws or regulations in the locations where we operate.

WMEAC Recycling and Zero Waste Internship

Position Summary:

The West Michigan Environmental Action Council (WMEAC) and the Kent County Department of Public Works (KCDPW) are offering a joint internship opportunity for an individual to support the Zero Waste in Landfill (ZWIL) and recycling education programs. We are seeking an intern to support strategies to improve participation and product quality for recycling in Grand Rapids and Kent County. The intern will assist in providing education about recycling and waste management to our community. The intern may be assisting with community outreach, volunteer coordination, public speaking, research, data management and analysis. Intern is expected to complete 15-25 hours per week, at times to be arranged by intern and staff at WMEAC and Kent County. Intern will receive a $500 stipend at the conclusion of the internship.

Kent County’s Recycling & Education Center (KCREC) serves as the primary materials recovery facility for residential recyclables generated in homes throughout West Michigan. Nearly 58 million pounds of recyclables were delivered to the facility in 2017. Our ZWIL programs promote recycling and activities that minimize waste. KCDPW Resource Recovery Specialists also educate residents about recycling and waste and offer resources that will assist residents in safe disposal options for discards that are mindful of environmental impacts. This intern will support staff members and also provide tours at the Recycling & Education Center and other solid waste facilities.

Intern will have the opportunity to work out of the KCREC and/or the WMEAC office to the extent possible. WMEAC staff will work with Intern to determine a flexible schedule to accomplish the internship goals and tasks. Occasional evenings and weekends should be expected for community outreach events. A resident of Kent County preferred, but not required if applicant has access to reliable transportation. The attendance of WMEAC events is also expected, when the intern’s schedule permits.

Position Breakdown by Season:

Winter/Spring (January – April)

• Emphasis on attending community events and outreach opportunities.
  • These include Imagine Craft Mondays at the KCREC from 1pm to 5pm.
• Executing WMEAC/KCDPW events such as workshops, recycle drives, and facility tours.
• Assisting with K-12 education opportunities about recycling, composting, and living sustainably.

Summer (May – August)

• Emphasis on attending community events and outreach opportunities.
  • These include Imagine Craft Mondays at the KCREC from 1pm to 5pm.
• Executing WMEAC/KCDPW events such as workshops, recycle drives, and facility tours.

Fall (September – December)

• Emphasis on updating and maintaining KCDPW’s Recycling and Waste Directory which assists Kent County residents in finding the proper method of disposal for their municipal waste.
• Planning WMEAC/KCDPW events such as workshops, recycle drives, and facility tours.
• Assisting with K-12 education opportunities about recycling, composting, and living sustainably.

Qualifications:

Required:

• Intern MUST be available Mondays from 1 – 5pm for the KCREC’s Imagine Craft workshops.

• Reliable personal transportation, and flexible availability. A mileage reimbursement will be provided at the federal rate of $0.560 per mile for events attended outside of the expected workplace commute.

• Strong communication and writing skills to knowledgeably and professionally represent WMEAC and KCDPW and their programs in a variety of audiences and ages.

• Proficiency with Microsoft (and/or Google Suite) applications such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint.

• Basic knowledge of common recycling and materials management issues.

• Successfully clear a background and felony records check.

Preferred:

• Familiarity with the concepts of a circular economy, municipal solid waste, composting, and waste-to-energy.

• Familiarity with West Michigan’s current state of recycling/composting infrastructure and future plans for the Kent County Sustainable Business Park and waste reduction goals by 2030.

• Demonstrated dedication to protecting the environment and a willingness to try new tasks and outreach opportunities.

• Experience in planning and promoting community events such as workshops, recycle drives, facility tours, etc.

• Experience working with K-12 students and/or developing lesson plans and activities.

Hours & Compensation:

A flexible schedule of 20-25 hours per week agreed upon by you and coordinating staff member, as well as attendance at WMEAC events, schedule permitting. Intern will receive a $500 stipend at the conclusion of the internship contract.

To Apply:

Applicants should send a cover letter, resume, and application wmeac.org/internships.

Organization Background:

WMEAC is a nonprofit, 501(c)(3) organization working to protect and enhance West Michigan’s environment by translating the concerns of people into positive action. WMEAC has been delivering environmental education and advocacy to the West Michigan community for over 50 years. We seek to engage with our community members, schools, and businesses to increase awareness about what exactly happens when you throw something “away.”

Kent County’s Recycling & Education Center serves as the primary materials recovery facility for residential recyclables generated in homes throughout West Michigan. A materials recovery facility, or MRF (murf), is a processing facility where recycling from curbside bins and recycling drop-off stations is sorted and prepared to be sold to processors and end-users. Nearly 58 million pounds of recyclables were delivered to the facility in 2017. These materials were put back into our economy as feedstock for new products like cereal boxes, glass bottles, toys, packaging, clothing, park benches and more.

Kent County DPW has education staff that promote recycling and activities that minimize waste. Resource Recovery Specialists educate residents about recycling and waste and offer resources that will assist residents in safe disposal options for discards that are mindful of environmental impacts. These staff members also provide tours at the Recycling & Education Center and other solid waste facilities operated by the Kent County Department of Public Works.

West Michigan Environmental Action Council is committed to the principle of equal employment opportunity for all employees and to providing employees with a work environment free of unlawful discrimination and harassment. Our Board of Directors, staff, and interns are committed to enhancing and celebrating diversity in all its forms. All employment decisions at West Michigan Environmental Action Council are based on business needs, job requirements and individual qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion or belief, national, social or ethnic origin, sex (including pregnancy), age, physical, mental or sensory disability, HIV status, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, marital, civil union or domestic partnership status, past or present military service, family medical history or genetic information, family or parental status, or any other status protected by the laws or regulations in the locations where we operate.

Environmental Education Internship Position Summary

Position Summary:

Enjoy being outside? Want to gain experience educating others about the environment? Apply today to WMEAC’s education team!

We are seeking individuals that are passionate about working outdoors, teaching students from all backgrounds, and protecting the environment. They care deeply about community, hands-on science learning, and promoting positive solutions to environmental problems.

This intern will support WMEAC’s Environmental Education (EE) programs such as Teach for the Watershed (T4W) and other community education and outreach opportunities.

Hours will be flexible and will average between 15 to 25 hours per week with occasional evenings and weekends for special events. Expect off-site hours between 8am and 3pm facilitating outdoor, K-12 education programs throughout West Michigan green spaces.

This internship is separated into three (3) semester long periods. Current enrollment in college is not required.

• Spring (March 1^st through June 1^st)
• Summer (May 1^st through August 1^st)
• Fall (September 1^st through December 1^st)

Responsibilities:

The primary responsibilities of an EE intern will be assisting with lessons and activities relating to environmental science topics such as water-quality testing, stormwater management, climate resiliency, and other topics as assigned.

We hold our staff responsible for establishing and maintaining a safe learning environment and facilitating positive learning experiences in nature. Our education team serves as mentors and role models for students interested in STEM careers.

Qualifications:

EE interns are enthusiastic about outdoor learning, organized, punctual, and can meet the needs of a high-impact, nonprofit organization providing quality, science-based programs.

Required:

• Evident dedication to or passion for protecting the environment and natural resources
• Consistent access to personal transportation
• Residency in West Michigan for the duration of the position
• Equipped for working outside for extended periods of time during all weather conditions
• Successfully clear a background and felony records check
• Willingness to represent WMEAC and its programs to creatively discuss environmental issues with a variety of public audiences
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and Google Docs
• Ability to lift 20 lbs. or more

Preferred:

• Experience working with K-12 youth in any capacity
• Relevant degree (or current enrollment) in environmental science, biology, resource management, sustainability, or K-12 education
• Basic understanding of West Michigan’s natural resources and environmental challenges
• Familiarity with or interest in fundamental environmental science vocabulary

Hours and Compensation:

A flexible schedule of 15 to 25 hours per week will be agreed upon between the intern and staff. EE interns will be expected to fulfill the responsibilities outlined in the position description and other duties as assigned by WMEAC staff.

The intern will receive a $500 stipend at the end of the internship contract agreement as determined at the point of hire.

Organization Background:

West Michigan Environmental Action Council (WMEAC) is a nonprofit, 501(c)(3) organization working to protect and enhance West Michigan’s environment by translating the concerns of people into positive action. WMEAC has been delivering environmental education and advocacy to the West Michigan community for 50 years.

To Apply:

Applicants should send a cover letter, resume, and application wmeac.org/internships.

West Michigan Environmental Action Council is committed to the principle of equal employment opportunity for all employees and to providing employees with a work environment free of unlawful discrimination and harassment. Our Board of Directors, staff, and interns are committed to enhancing and celebrating diversity in all its forms. All employment decisions at West Michigan Environmental Action Council are based on business needs, job requirements and individual qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion or belief, national, social or ethnic origin, sex (including pregnancy), age, physical, mental or sensory disability, HIV status, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, marital, civil union or domestic partnership status, past or present military service, family medical history or genetic information, family or parental status, or any other status protected by the laws or regulations in the locations where we operate.

WMEAC Community Outreach & Inclusion

2 Internship Periods available:

• May – July 2021
• July – September/October 2021

Position summary:

As the WMEAC Community Outreach & Inclusion Intern you will have the opportunity to expand your skills in community engagement, volunteer management, and communications and deepen your understanding of inclusion and equity in a nonprofit environmental organization. In this position, you will primarily support the Volunteer Program, Water Outreach Program, and the Inclusion & Development of Environmental Allies and Leaders (IDEAL) Committee as well as assist with the coordination and staffing of event tabling requests from community and partner organizations.

This intern works closely with the Communications & Community Engagement Coordinator and is open to both students and non-students interested in engaging a diverse group of community members and organizations in environmental issues and action.

Specific Duties:

Volunteer Programs & Community Events

• Respond to volunteer inquiries, plan and coordinate volunteer work days and other opportunities and promote the volunteer program through the volunteer e-newsletter, social media and email.
• Coordinate event tabling requests received from community and partner organizations, plan logistics and activities for events, and represent WMEAC and engage community members at events.

Water Outreach Programs

• Assist with WMEAC’s Rain Barrel Workshops including planning workshop logistics, communicating with partners, maintaining an inventory of supplies, preparing materials and barrels, and leading workshops.
• Support the Rainy Day Project, which is focused on the development of a strategy for community engagement and implementation of water conservation and stormwater green infrastructure practices in underserved communities within the City.

Inclusion

• Attend WMEAC’s IDEAL committee meetings and provide support as needed for committee projects.

Qualifications:

This positions requires strong organization and communication skills and the ability to handle planning, logistics, and execution of multiple programs and events concurrently.

The ideal candidate will have:

• Experience or strong interest in volunteer management
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to work with database management tools
• Ability to speak to a group of community members, partners, and volunteers
• Knowledge of social media writing and content development
• Strong organization skills
• Detail oriented and able to plan and execute logistics for multiple, concurrent events
• Ability to conduct accurate research to support grant initiatives
• Familiarity with Microsoft Word, Excel and Google Docs
• Basic knowledge of environmental and/or social justice issues is helpful

Hours & Compensation:

A flexible schedule of 10 – 20 hours per week agreed upon by you and coordinating staff member, including occasional evening and weekend events. Attendance at WMEAC events is expected, schedule permitting. Intern will receive a $500 stipend at the conclusion of the internship contract agreement.

Organization Background:

WMEAC (West Michigan Environmental Action Council) is a nonprofit membership organization founded in 1968 that has been active in issues ranging from banning DDT, critical dunes preservation and the Michigan bottle bill, to contemporary issues such as water quality and community sustainability.

To Apply:

Interested persons should submit a resume, cover letter, and application online at wmeac.org/internships.

West Michigan Environmental Action Council is committed to the principle of equal employment opportunity for all employees and to providing employees with a work environment free of unlawful discrimination and harassment. Our Board of Directors, staff, and interns are committed to enhancing and celebrating diversity in all its forms. All employment decisions at West Michigan Environmental Action Council are based on business needs, job requirements and individual qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion or belief, national, social or ethnic origin, sex (including pregnancy), age, physical, mental or sensory disability, HIV status, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, marital, civil union or domestic partnership status, past or present military service, family medical history or genetic information, family or parental status, or any other status protected by the laws or regulations in the locations where we operate.

Marketing & Climate Communications Internship

Position summary:

As the WMEAC Marketing & Climate Communications Intern you will have the opportunity to develop and expand your skills in digital communications and social media marketing with diverse West Michigan audiences. You will also have the opportunity to support inclusion, diversity and equity goals in an environmental nonprofit that supports environmental justice in the communities we serve.

This internship will focus on climate communications through social media, digital newsletters and membership communications, website and press materials. You will support the organization’s operations, development and programming work including: promoting programs, workshops and volunteer opportunities; developing marketing materials and social media campaigns for events; and sharing current environmental issues and challenges such as climate justice, the Line 5 pipeline, water quality and other emerging concerns with the goal of educating, activating and inspiring action. This internship is intended for a student or community member who is passionate about communications, marketing, and community engagement.

Qualifications:

• Familiarity and experience managing social media platforms for an organization or business and/or ability and willingness to learn
• Experience and/or ability to create and design content for e-newsletters, social media, and marketing campaigns; photography, video and/or creative design experience a plus
• Highly organized and able to maintain a complex, multi-faceted communications strategy
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Experience and/or willingness to learn to operate basic website tools
• Experience with Microsoft Word, Excel and Google Docs
• Awareness of social, economic and/or environmental justice issues
• Ability to speak to a group of community members and partners

Hours & Compensation:

A flexible schedule of 10 – 20 hours per week agreed upon by you and coordinating staff member, as well as attendance at WMEAC events, schedule permitting. Intern will receive a $500 stipend at the conclusion of the internship contract agreement.

Organization Background:

WMEAC (West Michigan Environmental Action Council) is a nonprofit membership organization founded in 1968 that has been active in issues ranging from banning DDT, critical dunes preservation and the Michigan bottle bill, to contemporary issues such as water quality and community sustainability.

To Apply:

Interested persons should submit a resume, cover letter, and application online at wmeac.org/internships.

West Michigan Environmental Action Council is committed to the principle of equal employment opportunity for all employees and to providing employees with a work environment free of unlawful discrimination and harassment. Our Board of Directors, staff, and interns are committed to enhancing and celebrating diversity in all its forms. All employment decisions at West Michigan Environmental Action Council are based on business needs, job requirements and individual qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion or belief, national, social or ethnic origin, sex (including pregnancy), age, physical, mental or sensory disability, HIV status, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, marital, civil union or domestic partnership status, past or present military service, family medical history or genetic information, family or parental status, or any other status protected by the laws or regulations in the locations where we operate.

Eco-Journalism and Blogging Internship

Position Summary:

This intern will research, write, and/or produce content on identified West Michigan environmental issues for print and online publication, as well as for radio and cable TV broadcast. Intern will support WMEAC’s various water quality, policy, and clean energy programs and projects. Attendance of WMEAC events is also expected, when the intern’s schedule permits. Intern will work out of the WMEAC office, but a flexible schedule of 15-20 hours per week will be arranged by intern and staff as much of the work can be done independently. Intern will receive a $500 stipend at the conclusion of the internship.

Qualifications:

Required: The best candidate will be an upper-level university student, graduate, or emerging professional with education, experience, or training in the field of journalism or professional writing.

Preferred:

• Documented journalism experience including published writing sample
• Training or professional experience with social media
• Experience doing interview
• Ability to meet deadlines
• Familiarity with or ability to quickly learn digital content management systems
• Familiarity with or ability to quickly learn basic photography and video skills
• Basic knowledge of common environmental issues 

Hours & Compensation:

A flexible schedule of 15 – 20 hours per week, to be arranged by intern and staff. Attendance of WMEAC events is also expected, when student’s schedule permits. Intern will receive a $500 stipend at the conclusion of the internship contract agreement.

Organization Background:

WMEAC (West Michigan Environmental Action Council) is a nonprofit membership organization founded in 1968 that has been active in issues ranging from banning DDT, critical dunes preservation and the Michigan bottle bill, to contemporary issues such as water quality and community sustainability.

To Apply:

Interested persons should submit a resume, cover letter, writing samples, and application online at wmeac.org/internships.

West Michigan Environmental Action Council is committed to the principle of equal employment opportunity for all employees and to providing employees with a work environment free of unlawful discrimination and harassment. Our Board of Directors, staff, and interns are committed to enhancing and celebrating diversity in all its forms. All employment decisions at West Michigan Environmental Action Council are based on business needs, job requirements and individual qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion or belief, national, social or ethnic origin, sex (including pregnancy), age, physical, mental or sensory disability, HIV status, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, marital, civil union or domestic partnership status, past or present military service, family medical history or genetic information, family or parental status, or any other status protected by the laws or regulations in the locations where we operate.

WMEAC Policy Internship

Position Summary:

WMEAC is looking for an intern with an interest and background in politics, policy, and environmental issues to build and assist WMEAC’s Policy Committee and Program staff. Intern will support WMEAC’s various water quality, policy, and clean energy programs and projects. Attendance of WMEAC events is also expected, when the intern’s schedule permits. Intern will work out of the WMEAC office, but a flexible schedule of 15-20 hours per week will be arranged by intern and staff as much of the work can be done independently. Intern will receive a $500 stipend at the conclusion of the internship.

Specific Duties:

Although specific tasks will depend on environmental policy issues that arise during the course of the internship, intern is expected to:

• Coordinate advocacy actions and events, as directed by the WMEAC Policy Committee
• Research and summarize policy issues and environmental questions
• Track media coverage, public and private remediation and testing, ongoing research; update FAQs; and assist with planning and implementation efforts for a Public Advisory Council regarding PFAS contamination in Michigan
• Identify, track, and analyze important environmental legislation
• Research and write articles and opinion pieces for WMEAC blog and social media

Qualifications:

The ideal candidate will have:

• Knowledge of and a strong interest in federal, state, and local political systems; environmental issues, especially water, energy, and climate resilience
• Successful academic coursework in government and political science or environmental policy
• Excellent communication and writing skills, including public speaking, with a mastery of environmental science vocabulary
• Strong research skills, experience in collecting and analyzing qualitative and quantitative data
• Willingness to represent WMEAC and its Policy Committee and to intelligently discuss environmental issues with a variety of community and professional audiences
• Good organizational skills, self-starter; leadership experience a plus
• Commitment to protecting the environment
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Publisher)

Hours & Compensation:

A flexible schedule of 10 – 20 hours per week, to be arranged by intern and staff. Attendance of WMEAC events is also expected, when student’s schedule permits. Intern will receive a $500 stipend at the conclusion of the internship contract agreement.

Organization Background:

WMEAC (West Michigan Environmental Action Council) is a nonprofit membership organization founded in 1968 that has been active in issues ranging from banning DDT, critical dunes preservation and the Michigan bottle bill, to contemporary issues such as water quality and community sustainability.

To Apply:

Interested persons should submit a resume, cover letter, and application online at wmeac.org/internships.

West Michigan Environmental Action Council is committed to the principle of equal employment opportunity for all employees and to providing employees with a work environment free of unlawful discrimination and harassment. Our Board of Directors, staff, and interns are committed to enhancing and celebrating diversity in all its forms. All employment decisions at West Michigan Environmental Action Council are based on business needs, job requirements and individual qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion or belief, national, social or ethnic origin, sex (including pregnancy), age, physical, mental or sensory disability, HIV status, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, marital, civil union or domestic partnership status, past or present military service, family medical history or genetic information, family or parental status, or any other status protected by the laws or regulations in the locations where we operate.

Muskegon Area Recycling Improvement Initiative Internship

Position available: Summer 2021

Position summary:

West Michigan Environmental Action Council (WMEAC) is offering an internship opportunity for an individual to support WMEAC’s Muskegon area recycling improvement initiative. In accepting this position, you would dedicate 10-15 hours per week, possibly including occasional nights and weekends. Times are subject to agreement between WMEAC staff and intern. In completion of this position, you will receive a $500 stipend.

It will be your responsibility to support WMEAC, working with elected and community leaders, to strategize and support ways to improve coordination, information and educational messaging, and availability and access to recycling services in the Muskegon area.

Opportunities to assist with local government and community organization engagement, volunteer coordination, public speaking, research, writing, and more will be available over the course of the internship. Most work will be done virtually or potentially at in person locations in the Muskegon area, per COVID safety guidelines. 

Specific Duties:

• Assisting with virtual and/or in person meetings, including administrative tasks such as meeting logistics, developing agendas and notetaking.
• Research and writing Muskegon area recycling information and resource fact sheets.
• Creating emails for an email listserv.
• Researching and posting recycling information on social media.
• Interacting with local government, community organization leaders, and educators via email and phone.

Qualifications:

• Knowledge of recycling, composting, waste reduction, and upcycling issues a plus.
• Strong communication and writing skills to knowledgeably and professionally represent WMEAC and its programs.
• Flexible availability.
• Demonstrated dedication to protecting the environment and a willingness to try new tasks and outreach opportunities.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Publisher) and Google Docs.

Hours & Compensation:

A flexible schedule of 10-15 per week agreed upon by you and coordinating staff member, as well as attendance at WMEAC events, schedule and COVID safety guidelines permitting. Intern will receive a $500 stipend at the conclusion of the internship contract.

Organization Background:

WMEAC (West Michigan Environmental Action Council) is a nonprofit membership organization founded in 1968 that has been active in issues ranging from banning DDT, critical dunes preservation and the Michigan bottle bill, to contemporary issues such as water quality and community sustainability.

To Apply:

Interested persons should submit a resume, cover letter, and application online at wmeac.org/internships.

West Michigan Environmental Action Council is committed to the principle of equal employment opportunity for all employees and to providing employees with a work environment free of unlawful discrimination and harassment. Our Board of Directors, staff, and interns are committed to enhancing and celebrating diversity in all its forms. All employment decisions at West Michigan Environmental Action Council are based on business needs, job requirements and individual qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion or belief, national, social or ethnic origin, sex (including pregnancy), age, physical, mental or sensory disability, HIV status, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, marital, civil union or domestic partnership status, past or present military service, family medical history or genetic information, family or parental status, or any other status protected by the laws or regulations in the locations where we operate.

Muskegon County Climate Action Initiative Internship

Position available: Fall 2021

Position summary:

West Michigan Environmental Action Council (WMEAC) is offering an internship opportunity for an individual to support WMEAC’s Muskegon County climate action initiative. In accepting this position, you would dedicate 10-15 hours per week, possibly including occasional nights and weekends. Times are subject to agreement between WMEAC staff and intern. In completion of this position, you will receive a $500 stipend.

It will be your responsibility to support WMEAC, working with partner organizations and community leaders, to strategize and support ways to advance climate change education and action in Muskegon County.

Opportunities to assist with community organization and public education and engagement, volunteer coordination, public speaking, research, writing, and more will be available over the course of the internship. Most work will be done virtually or potentially at in person locations in the Muskegon area, per COVID safety guidelines. 

Specific Duties:

• Assisting with the development of climate change panel topics and discussions.
• Assisting with virtual and/or in person meeting logistics and administrative tasks.
• Researching and writing climate change blog and social media posts.
• Assisting with climate activist volunteer engagement.

Qualifications:

• Knowledge of basic climate science and climate change solutions a plus.
• Strong communication and writing skills to knowledgeably and professionally represent WMEAC and its programs.
• Flexible availability.
• Demonstrated dedication to protecting the environment and a willingness to try new tasks and outreach opportunities.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Publisher) and Google Docs.

Hours & Compensation:

A flexible schedule of 10-15 hours per week agreed upon by you and coordinating staff member, as well as attendance at WMEAC events, schedule and COVID safety guidelines permitting. Intern will receive a $500 stipend at the conclusion of the internship contract.

Organization Background:

WMEAC (West Michigan Environmental Action Council) is a nonprofit membership organization founded in 1968 that has been active in issues ranging from banning DDT, critical dunes preservation and the Michigan bottle bill, to contemporary issues such as water quality and community sustainability.

To Apply:

Interested persons should submit a resume, cover letter, and application online at wmeac.org/internships.

West Michigan Environmental Action Council is committed to the principle of equal employment opportunity for all employees and to providing employees with a work environment free of unlawful discrimination and harassment. Our Board of Directors, staff, and interns are committed to enhancing and celebrating diversity in all its forms. All employment decisions at West Michigan Environmental Action Council are based on business needs, job requirements and individual qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion or belief, national, social or ethnic origin, sex (including pregnancy), age, physical, mental or sensory disability, HIV status, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, marital, civil union or domestic partnership status, past or present military service, family medical history or genetic information, family or parental status, or any other status protected by the laws or regulations in the locations where we operate.

Crane Foundation Endowed Water Fellow Opportunity

Fall 2021 – Spring 2022

Title: Matilda M. and Harold D. Crane Foundation Endowed Water Fellow

Reports to: Director of Water Programs

Hours: A flexible schedule of 15-20 hours per week, to be arranged by fellow and staff

Stipend: $3,000 for the 2020 – 2021 Academic Year (32 weeks)

Fellowship Summary

The Matilda M. and Harold D. Crane Foundation Endowed Water Fellow will serve as program support for WMEAC’s water research, education, behavior change, and environmental action programs and initiatives. The primary role of the Water Fellow will be to participate in policy research and support, program development, and administrative activities to support WMEAC’s water programs, with the intended goal of providing learning and leadership opportunities that contribute to the professional development of the Water Fellow. Additional duties include community service through presentations and interactive activities to interested student, faith based, and/or civic groups about water quality issues, with the goals of providing environmental education and funneling new volunteers into opportunities for action for WMEAC’s water protection programs.

Organization Background

West Michigan Environmental Action Council (WMEAC) is a nonprofit, 501(c)(3) organization working to protect and enhance West Michigan’s enviornment by translating the concerns of people into positive action. WMEAC has been delivering environmental education and advocacy to the West Michigan community for over 50 years.

Overview of Fellowship Opportunity

Endowed by a charitable contribution from the Harold and Matilda Crane Foundation, the fellowship opportunity was established to ensure WMEAC develops leadership to engage students and citizens in watershed education and opportunities to act on behalf of our region’s water resources. This fellowship is intended to help develop a relationship between WMEAC and the fellow; commitment to the full academic year is key to the success of fellowship.

The Crane Foundation Endowed Water Fellow will be a member of WMEAC’s Water Team, reporting to the Program Manager and providing support as needed to other staff members.

Specific Duties

Duties will include analytical research and data collection, anaylsis and writing, attendance at community meetings and events, educational presentation development and delivery, and assistance with partner relationships and program development. Additional tasks and activities may be assigned as program needs develop and change over the course of the academic year.

Qualifications

• Current graduate or upper-level undergraduate student pursuing a degree in environmental science with a focus on aquatic sciences or water resources policy
• Knowledge and passion for regional watershed, water quality, and/or stormwater policy issues
• Excellent communication and writing skills, including public speaking, with a mastery of environmental science vocabulary
• Strong research skills, experience in collecting and analyzing qualitative and quantitative data
• Willingness to represent WMEAC and its Water Programs and to intelligently discuss environmental issues with a variety of community and professional audiences
• Good organizational skills, self-starter; leadership experience a plus
• Commitment to protecting the environment
• Ability and willingness to commit to this position for the full academic year
• Knowledge and experiences with geographic information systems (GIS) software
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Publisher)

Directions to Apply

Applicants should send a cover letter, resume, and application to wmeac.org/careers. The position will remain open until filled. Please refrain from contacting WMEAC staff members for more information or updates about this position.

WMEAC is an equal opportunity employer. No one will be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Women, Community & the Environment Internship

Position summary:

The WMEAC Women, Community & the Environment Intern will support WMEAC staff and Women, Community & Environment Series Planning Committee to assist in organizing and implementing the Women, Community & Environment Series, a multi-day series of events.

The Women, Community & the Environment Series centers the voices and concerns of women as caregivers, community activists, and students while providing content, tools and opportunities for everyone in our community.

Intern goals will also include implementing strategy to engage diverse and strategic West Michigan constituencies in WMEAC’s continuum of environmental education, behavior change, and policy program.  This internship is intended for a student or recent graduate interested in acquiring experience within a professional setting and developing relationships within the West Michigan business and non-profit community.

Qualifications:

The ideal candidate will have:

• Strong organizational skills
• A basic understanding of community partnerships and sponsorship models
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Familiarity with Microsoft Word, Excel and Google Docs
• Basic knowledge of common environmental issues
• Ability to work with database management
• Ability to speak to a group of members
• Ability to conduct accurate research to support grant initiatives
• Basic knowledge of Social media writing and development
• Respect and appreciation for volunteers and colleagues

Hours & Compensation:

A flexible schedule of 10-15 hours per week, to be arranged by intern and staff.  Some work can be done independently.  Intern needs to be employed from approximately May 15 – November 15 due to the dates of the event.

Organization Background:

WMEAC (West Michigan Environmental Action Council) is a nonprofit membership organization founded in 1968 that has been active in issues ranging from banning DDT, critical dunes preservation and the Michigan bottle bill, to contemporary issues such as water quality and community sustainability.

To Apply:

Interested persons should submit a resume, cover letter, and application online at wmeac.org/internships.

 West Michigan Environmental Action Council is committed to the principle of equal employment opportunity for all employees and to providing employees with a work environment free of unlawful discrimination and harassment. Our Board of Directors, staff, and interns are committed to enhancing and celebrating diversity in all its forms. All employment decisions at West Michigan Environmental Action Council are based on business needs, job requirements and individual qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion or belief, national, social or ethnic origin, sex (including pregnancy), age, physical, mental or sensory disability, HIV status, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, marital, civil union or domestic partnership status, past or present military service, family medical history or genetic information, family or parental status, or any other status protected by the laws or regulations in the locations where we operate.