Catawba Riverkeeper Announces Summer 2026 Policy Intern (Stipend $12.50 per Hour)

Catawba Riverkeeper Foundation has opened applications for a part-time, temporary Policy Intern position for Summer 2026. The internship will run from 19 May to 28 August 2026 and is based in Charlotte, North Carolina. The selected candidate will work approximately 30 hours per week and earn $12.50 per hour, paid bi-weekly.

About Catawba Riverkeeper

Founded in 1997 as the 21st Waterkeeper organization in the United States, Catawba Riverkeeper is now part of an international network of more than 400 local waterkeeper groups. The organization works to preserve, protect, and restore the waters of the Catawba-Wateree River Basin through education, advocacy, and community engagement.

The river basin spans 5,000 square miles and includes more than 8,900 miles of waterways across 26 counties in North and South Carolina. The foundation is focused on ensuring clean water for all who depend on and enjoy the region’s lakes, rivers, and streams.

Position Overview

The Policy Intern reports to the Policy Director and supports the organization’s involvement in the 2026 election cycle.

The intern will help lay the groundwork for legislative success by supporting the Summer Elections Associate. The role focuses on researching candidates running for office within the river basin and assisting with election-related engagement. The goal is to elevate conservation issues in the electoral process while maintaining a non-partisan approach.

The ideal candidate is driven, detail-oriented, comfortable speaking with the public, and passionate about environmental advocacy and civic engagement.

Key Responsibilities

The Policy Intern will:

• Serve as a brand ambassador for Catawba Riverkeeper in the local community

• Research candidates for North Carolina and South Carolina state legislatures, county commissions, and other local races

• Analyze campaign finance reports

• Track and attend public election events

• Assist in planning and executing election events

• Research priorities and activities of other interest groups during the election cycle

• Plan summer “field trips” for legislators and partner organizations

• Develop civic education and election engagement content, including blogs and social media posts

• Assist with researching and drafting legislation

• Support public outreach and engagement events

The intern is expected to uphold the organization’s mission and support staff and leadership in achieving strategic goals.

Requirements and Preferred Background

Applicants must:

• Demonstrate passion for the mission of Catawba Riverkeeper

• Pass a standard criminal background review

• Be available to work some evenings and weekends

• Be able to lift or move up to 35 pounds

• Commit to serving all individuals equally, without discrimination

Preferred qualifications include coursework or experience in political science, communications, or public engagement. Experience in event planning is valued. Familiarity with ArcGIS is preferred but not required.

Candidates should be comfortable working both independently and as part of a team, and able to manage an organized workflow in a changing environment.

Location and Schedule

The internship is based at the organization’s policy office in Charlotte, with regular travel to the main office in Cramerton and other areas within the 26-county river basin and Piedmont region.

The intern is expected to work approximately 30 hours per week, typically from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Tuesday through Friday. The exact schedule may be adjusted to accommodate academic commitments.

Compensation and Benefits

The intern will receive $12.50 per hour, paid on a bi-weekly basis. Activities that require the use of a personal vehicle may qualify for gas mileage reimbursement, subject to supervisor approval.

Organizational Values

Catawba Riverkeeper describes itself as an organization focused on action, quality, leadership, innovation, and engagement. The team emphasizes meaningful work, high standards, thoughtful risk-taking, and strong community involvement.

The foundation provides equal employment opportunities and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any kind.

For students and early-career professionals interested in environmental advocacy, policy research, and civic engagement during an election year, this internship offers practical experience within a respected regional conservation organization working across North and South Carolina.

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