Blue Economy Internship - Current

Overview:

Current, Chicago’s water innovation hub, is leading the charge to create a globally-significant
inclusive blue economy here in Illinois. The Blue Economy Intern will provide essential support to
our program team and help implement Current’s inclusive blue economy strategy by developing
and executing a suite of programs aimed at creating opportunity and growth in Illinois. These
programs include the design and launch of a new Water Technology Accelerator, workforce
development programs, STEM education, entrepreneurship, and corporate water
stewardship/ESG. As a member of a small team, this intern will also support Current staff in
delivering major programs, pilots, and events focused on accelerating innovation and solving
environmental challenges.

How to Apply: 

Please apply though the posting on Current's Handshake page OR email your resume with a cover letter to internships@currentwater.org 

Key learning opportunities: 

• Support Current's Program Builder & Program Manager on the implementation of Current’s inclusive blue economy strategy, including activities like research, program development, partner management, and more.
• Support Current in broadly sharing the inclusive blue economy report through writing, events, social media, and other outlets.
• Participate in convenings with regional partners to map out and develop workforce pathways and training programs for blue jobs.
• Conduct research on corporate water stewardship and ESG to help Current create an industry leadership table and improve corporate engagement.
• Work with consultants and educational partners to design and implement high-quality water and STEM focused curricula and develop methods to measure impact.
• Monitor news publications, social media, and partner newsletters
• Assist team with other tasks as needed, including event production and note taking.

Qualifications and Requirements 

• Actively enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program focusing on economic development, urban planning, policy, public administration, economics, or related area
• 1-2 years of experience working in a public or nonprofit setting desirable
• Strong, effective, and enthusiastic writing and verbal communication skills required
• Meticulous time management and organizational skills – ability to self-manage projects, deadlines, calendars, and files
• Background knowledge in water and environmental issues a plus
• Ability to attend occasional in-person events
• Must be able to work remotely AND in person in our Chicago office
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite

Time and Compensation

This internship opportunity is on a part-time basis of 10-15 hours per week during normal business

hours (9:00 AM – 5:00 PM) for approximately 10 weeks; June 12 through August 18, 2023. The hours

will be split between virtual/remote and in-person in our Chicago office. The intern may occasionally

be asked to work on an evening or weekend. Compensation will be in a form of a stipend equaling

$16-$26 per hour, depending on the level of education and experience.