Communications and Outreach Internship

Since 2004, Sustainable Finger Lakes (SFLX) has been a leader in laying the groundwork for the transition to a resilient local economy, healthy environment, and strong social fabric. We act as convener, connector, and catalyst to engage both the grassroots and policymakers in redesigning how we work and live so our community can successfully cope with global influences such as climate disruption and energy transitions. Projects and programs focus on energy efficiency, climate protection, sustainable community development, green-collar jobs, sustainable enterprise, and economic/ecological justice.

About the role

This internship runs from August 24, 2026, to May 28, 2027, for 10 hours per week. The fall/spring intern will participate as a team member in the outreach and programming of SFLX.

Responsibilities

• Write press releases and feature articles for local media to share clean energy stories.
• Post updates to social media and websites for our Finger Lakes Climate Fund and SFLX.
• Research potential businesses across the region to join our Finger Lakes Enterprises for Climate Action (FLECA) and recruit them as carbon offsetting partners.
• Update our website and social media; create short one-take videos of our partners; design graphics using Canva; write and edit short articles.
• Provide community education at events and door-to-door; give talks to groups about our programs.
• Assist with an awareness and engagement campaign across the 14 counties of the Finger Lakes Region to promote clean energy, grid stability, environmental stewardship, and climate justice.
• Help staff with other tasks related to Sustainable Finger Lakes as needed.

Requirements

• Strong organizational and interpersonal skills.
• Working knowledge of climate action and clean energy.
• Outgoing personality and ability to work independently.
• Familiarity with digital media and websites.
• Must be 18 or older and a resident of New York State.
• Currently a student or a recent graduate.
• Must provide own transportation.

Pay

$22/hour, 10 hours per week.

Schedule

10 hours per week from August 24, 2026, to May 28, 2027. Work is based out of our downtown Ithaca office.