Intern, Sustainable Operations

  • Internship, Short-term contract assignment
  • Posted on 15 January 2026
  • Save for later

Job Description

Position Overview

The Rockefeller Foundation seeks an Intern for its Sustainable Operations team. Reporting to the Manager, Sustainable Operations, and working closely with internal stakeholders, this role supports strategies for operational efficiency and sustainability. The Sustainable Operations team is preparing for the next decade to deliver excellent services that enable the Foundation to make decisions now that contribute to a better climate future for communities around the globe. Responsibilities include supporting data collection, creating communications materials, and leading a project analyzing the positive impact of sustainable operations on health, economic benefits, and energy access.

Program Details

  • Open to graduate students currently enrolled in an accredited program.
  • Applicants must submit a resume and cover letter as part of the application process.
  • Work authorization in the United States is required.
  • This is a year-long internship:
    • Full-time (35 hrs/week) during the summer (June–August 2026).
    • Part-time during the academic year (September 2026–May 2027), with a minimum of 16 and maximum of 20 hours per week.
  • The position is based in New York City and requires in-office presence Monday through Thursday during the summer (June–August). The in-office presence during the academic year will be determined by the position supervisor with consideration for the Intern’s class schedule.


Hiring Range: $30–$35 hourly rate. This represents the present low and high end of the Foundation’s pay range for this position. Actual pay will vary based on various factors, including but not limited to work experience. This is a non-exempt position and thus eligible for overtime pay.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities

  • Support department-wide data collection processes on key performance indicators related to excellence, efficiency, and sustainability, and create compelling presentations and communications materials.
  • Lead a project analyzing the impact of sustainable operations on improving the lives of people and communities around the world using qualitative and quantitative measures.
  • Collaborate with internal stakeholders to embed sustainability into operational decisions.
  • Other duties and projects as assigned.

Education, Experience, and Skills

  • Currently enrolled in a graduate program in one of the following areas: sustainable business, environmental management, sustainability studies, sustainable supply chain, or a related discipline.
  • Familiarity with sustainable operations and net-zero principles, with a willingness to learn and apply them under guidance.
  • Ability to gather information on new topics, summarize findings, and contribute to team insights with supervision.
  • Capable of drafting clear content and sharing ideas effectively in team settings.
  • Works well with others, demonstrates adaptability, and contributes to group projects with enthusiasm.
  • Shows curiosity and takes ownership of assigned tasks, seeking guidance when needed to ensure progress.

Competencies

  • Bias for Action: Takes on new opportunities and tough challenges with a sense of urgency, high energy, and enthusiasm.
  • Communicates Effectively: Develops and delivers multi-mode communications that convey a clear understanding of the unique needs of different audiences.
  • Decision Quality: Makes good and timely decisions that keep the organization moving forward.
  • Strategic Learning: Actively learns through experimentation when tackling new problems, using both successes and failures as learning fodder.
  • Values Differences: Recognizes the value of different perspectives, commits to being self-aware and respectful, and seeks to learn from new and different voices.

Disclaimer: Applications will be received until this position is filled.

About the Organization

History * Established the first schools of public health. * Provided early support in the United States for education "without distinction of race, sex or creed." * Developed the vaccine to prevent yellow fever. * Supported the establishment of international cultural institutions, including Lincoln Center in New York City and the Berkshire Music Festival at Tanglewood in Western Massachusetts. * Funded the modernization of agriculture in the developing world, known as the Green Revolution. Philanthropic Approach * Improving Opportunities for Poor People. We are committed to working with poor people to achieve lasting improvements in their lives. * Using Knowledge. We generate new, and harness existing knowledge to address the complex changes faced by poor people. * Global. We view poverty globally and are committed to working with poor people on the ground in targeted regions of the world. * Focusing on Lives and Livelihoods. Our work addresses the everyday challenges to poor people's lives and livelihoods.

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