10-Week Paid Summer Internship Provides Hands-On Experience in Government

County Executive Jen Metzger invites applications for the Ulster County Climate Corps — a paid, project-based summer internship program, now in its third year, to give students hands-on experience working on climate-related projects in County government. This year, Climate Corps interns will choose from amongmore than a dozen projects that advance the County’s Climate Action Commitment and bolster community resilience to the impacts of climate change. The program runs from June 9 to August 15 and pays $18 per hour. The application window opens today, February 3, and applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis through the end of March, or until the program is filled. 

"We’re kicking off the third year of the Ulster County Climate Corps, and we’ve got a lot of exciting projects lined up for summer interns to fight climate change and strengthen our resilience to its impacts,” said Ulster County Executive Jen Metzger. “This is a great opportunity for young people to make a difference in their community and help build a more sustainable future while gaining hands-on experience in government." 

“I was lucky enough to participate in the Climate Corps in the summer of 2023, and learned so much through this experience," said Naseem Haidaoui, Climate Corps Alumni and recent graduate of SUNY New Paltz, who now serves as Confidential Secretary to the County Executive. "For my project, I helped develop the County's climate justice outreach plan, and I also had the opportunity to learn from professionals in and outside of government through the program's weekly professional development sessions. I am excited to have the opportunity this year to bring my experience with the Climate Corps to help coordinate the program."

The program is open to individuals aged 16 and over, and interested high school, college, and graduate students and interested community members are encouraged to apply. Through a blend of hands-on experience, professional development, and community engagement, interns will gain insights into public service and government operations while actively contributing to tangible climate solutions.

This year’s Climate Corps projects include:

• Sustainable Farming Practices (Economic Development)
• Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan (Emergency Services)
• Climate Smart Communities Program (Environment)
• Energy and Electrification GIS Mapping (Environment)
• Better Homes for All Program (Interdepartmental)
• Graphic Design and User Experience for Climate Initiatives (Executive's Office)
• Ulster REConnect Map development (Information Services)
• Transportation System for Elderly Residents (Office for the Aging)
• EV Charging Stations Mapping (Planning/Tourism)
• Waste Reduction and Education for County Facilities (Public Works)
• Ulster County Sustainable Purchasing Best Practices (Purchasing)
• Youth Climate Education (Youth Bureau)

To learn more about the Ulster County Climate Corps Program, and to apply, visit https://participate.ulstercountyny.gov/climate-corps.