Global Impact Careers

ClimateWorks Foundation Internships 2026 — Summer Opportunities Opening Soon: Paid Environmental & Climate Policy Roles

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ClimateWorks Foundation Internships 2026 — Summer Opportunities Opening Soon: Paid Environmental & Climate Policy Roles provide one of the most anticipated and competitive pathways for students and emerging professionals passionate about climate solutions, philanthropic impact, sustainability, environmental justice, climate analytics, and international climate strategy. Applications for the 2026 Summer Internship cycle will officially open between late February and early March, and this article serves as a detailed guide for preparing in advance. As an independent website, I am only advertising this opportunity and not affiliated with ClimateWorks Foundation. These internships typically offer paid on-site placements at the San Francisco headquarters, where interns gain hands-on experience in climate policy research, data analysis, program coordination, communications, philanthropic strategy, and high-impact environmental projects. With global climate challenges intensifying, the 2026 internship cohort will provide students and recent graduates with meaningful exposure to world-class climate initiatives, mentorship from experts, and opportunities to shape global environmental solutions.

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Background & Job Description

ClimateWorks Foundation is recognized globally for its pioneering role in accelerating climate philanthropy and coordinating international efforts toward carbon reduction, sustainability, and environmental resilience. Founded in 2008, the foundation has grown into a major hub that supports climate research, data-driven strategies, innovative funding partnerships, and cross-sector collaboration. The Foundation works with philanthropists, governments, NGOs, and climate institutions worldwide to drive systemic change in areas such as energy transitions, sustainable finance, transportation, food systems, industry decarbonization, and climate justice.

Each year, ClimateWorks offers highly competitive summer internship opportunities designed for students and early-career professionals who are passionate about climate solutions and eager to learn from experts in the nonprofit and philanthropic sectors. The 2026 internship cycle is expected to open between late February and early March, but applicants are encouraged to start preparing early due to the high competition and limited positions.

ClimateWorks internships typically take place at its headquarters in San Francisco, California, providing interns with an immersive experience in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment. As an organization deeply embedded in global philanthropy, interns gain access to networks, insights, and strategic initiatives that shape environmental policy at international levels.

These internships are not yet posted, but based on previous cycles and insights from past postings, candidates can expect positions across departments such as:

  • Climate Policy & Research
  • Sustainable Finance
  • Energy & Industry Program Support
  • Monitoring, Evaluation & Learning
  • Data Analytics & Impact Measurement
  • Communications & Storytelling
  • Knowledge Management
  • Grants & Philanthropy Coordination
  • Operations and Strategic Services

The goal of the ClimateWorks internship experience is to expose emerging climate leaders to ongoing global initiatives, build technical and analytical capacity, and deepen understanding of how philanthropy drives environmental transformation. Interns work on real projects, contribute to team deliverables, participate in policy research, and support cross-functional coordination efforts.

This article is created to promote awareness of the upcoming 2026 opportunities. I am not affiliated with ClimateWorks Foundation; applicants should check official listings for accurate posting dates and requirements.


ClimateWorks Foundation Internships 2026 — Summer Opportunities Opening Soon: Paid Environmental & Climate Policy Roles

Tasks

While position-specific responsibilities will be announced once official postings go live, typical responsibilities for past ClimateWorks internships include the following:

1. Conduct Climate Policy Research & Analysis

Interns support research projects focused on global climate strategies, energy transition trends, sectoral emissions, decarbonization pathways, and environmental policymaking. This may involve literature reviews, policy summaries, data interpretation, and synthesis of research findings.

2. Assist with Program Coordination

Many ClimateWorks teams work across thematic areas, and interns help coordinate activities between program partners, philanthropic donors, and internal teams. This includes scheduling meetings, preparing briefing materials, supporting event logistics, and tracking progress on ongoing initiatives.

3. Contribute to Data, Analytics & Knowledge Management

Interns may support data collection, data visualization, knowledge platform updates, and the development of internal tools that strengthen ClimateWorks’ insights on climate impact and philanthropic strategies.

4. Support Communications & Storytelling

Some internship roles include communications-based tasks such as drafting blog content, preparing social media material, designing presentations, assisting with reports, and documenting project stories and outcomes.

5. Assist Philanthropy & Donor Engagement Teams

Interns may help prepare donor briefings, track grantmaking activities, support internal coordination, and contribute to philanthropic engagement strategies.

6. Provide Operational and Administrative Support

Roles may involve supporting events, maintaining documentation systems, updating databases, assisting with project compliance tasks, and collaborating with internal departments to streamline processes.

7. Participate in Professional Development Activities

ClimateWorks places emphasis on mentorship, networking, and learning. Interns typically participate in professional development sessions, learning modules, orientation events, team meetings, and cross-departmental workshops.

8. Collaborate on High-Impact Climate Projects

Interns work alongside experienced researchers, policy experts, and program managers to contribute to projects that influence global environmental solutions—from decarbonization strategies to climate justice initiatives.


Qualifications

Education & Certification

While official requirements will be published once applications open, typical ClimateWorks internship qualifications include:

  • Enrollment in an undergraduate or graduate program, or status as a recent graduate
  • Academic experience in fields such as:
    • Environmental Science
    • Sustainability
    • Public Policy
    • International Relations
    • Economics
    • Data Science
    • Communications
    • Geography
    • Urban Studies
    • International Development
  • Strong academic performance is an advantage
  • No mandatory certification requirements
  • Some roles may request writing samples, research reports, or data portfolios

Candidates from all academic backgrounds may apply if they can demonstrate passion and relevance.

Experience

ClimateWorks Foundation typically seeks candidates who possess:

  • A strong interest in climate change, environmental policy, sustainability, or nonprofit work
  • Analytical and critical-thinking ability
  • Research and writing skills
  • Communication and collaboration abilities
  • Basic knowledge of climate policy or environmental issues (preferred but not required)
  • Experience with data tools, spreadsheets, or visualizations for analytical roles
  • Professionalism and attention to detail
  • Passion for social impact and mission-driven work

ClimateWorks also encourages applications from:

  • First-generation students
  • Underrepresented groups
  • International climate advocates (subject to visa requirements)

Additional Information

Expected Application Timeline

  • Internship Cycle: Summer 2026
  • Posting Window: Late February – Early March
  • Location: San Francisco, California
  • Work Mode: Primarily on-site unless otherwise stated
  • Compensation: Past internships have been paid

How to Prepare Before the Application Opens

1. Bookmark the ClimateWorks Careers Portal

Applicants should check the website regularly as postings appear suddenly and fill quickly.

2. Prepare Key Application Documents

  • Updated resume
  • A strong cover letter
  • Writing samples (if required)
  • Portfolio links (for communications or data roles)

3. Learn About ClimateWorks Foundation

Review public reports, research papers, and program briefs to demonstrate alignment during application review.

4. Set Job Alerts & Notifications

Enable email notifications to receive instant updates once roles go live.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Are ClimateWorks internships paid?
Past internships have generally been paid, but compensation details will be included in each job listing.

2. Are international students eligible?
Eligibility depends on visa requirements and specific role descriptions.

3. Are internships remote?
Most have historically been on-site in San Francisco, but some hybrid roles may be possible.

4. When will postings appear?
Between late February and early March 2026.

5. Can I apply early?
No early applications are accepted; you must wait until the official listing.


Important Note

This article is created solely to advertise the ClimateWorks Foundation internships and is not affiliated with the organization. Applicants should refer only to the official ClimateWorks careers portal for updated and accurate information.


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