Sustainability Policy and Legal Intern
CityOfNewYork
Posted: March 14, 2026
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Quick Summary
Sustainability Policy and Legal Intern is a 13-week internship with NYC Department of Buildings, focusing on ensuring compliance with NYC Construction Codes, Energy Code and Zoning Resolution.
Required Skills
Job Description
Sustainability Policy and Legal Intern
Job Description
NOTE: This summer internship is for up to 13 weeks, starting from the first day of the internship and ending no later than September 4, 2026. Interns are expected to work 35 hours per week in person.
About the Team
At the NYC Department of Buildings, we are 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. As an Agency, we are committed to remaining a premier municipal building organization, dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for all New Yorkers and making our city safer. As an employer, we are committed to improving our performance and developing procedures that are streamlined, understandable, and transparent.
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.
Position Responsibilities
Under the direction and supervision of the Senior Policy Advisor, Sustainability Policy, the intern will:
-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.
Major/ Field of Study
Candidates must be currently enrolled in a graduate degree program in an accredited college, university or law school.
Pursuing a graduate degree in law, political science, public policy, sustainability, environmental sciences, public administration, or a related field.
Interest in sustainability, climate policy, civil society, and New York City government.
SUMMER GRADUATE INTERN - 10232
Candidates must be currently enrolled in a graduate degree program in an accredited college, university or law school.
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.