Affordability Policy Intern

Position DescriptionSeattle Public Utilities (SPU) is a Community Centered Utility whose mission is to foster healthy people, environment, and economy by partnering with our community to equitably manage water and waste resources for today and future generations. We deliver high quality, vital services, across four major lines of business: providing water, solid waste, drainage and wastewater services for Seattle residents and businesses. In addition, SPU provides drinking water for 1.5 million regional customers in Seattle and other municipalities.Our customers depend on us to deliver high quality, reliable, and cost-conscious utility services and to achieve the highest benefits possible for every investment we make. SPU commits to Our City Values and Race and Social Justice as core principles that guide our work. We actively take steps to dismantle systemic racism and increase service equity. We value diverse life experiences and strive to create a workplace that is welcoming to all. We take steps to be inclusive and equitable in our recruiting, hiring and promotional opportunities.Job ResponsibilitiesAs an Affordability Policy Intern, you will work within the Office of the General Manager (Corporate Planning & Policy) to support human-centered policy design. You will assist in navigating complex utility assistance portfolios while ensuring that a racial equity lens is applied to all public policy initiatives.Policy Research & DevelopmentPolicy Deep-Dives: Conduct comprehensive research on 2–3 specific policy issues, gathering relevant information and data to support departmental goals. Benchmarking & Analysis: Perform benchmarking studies and interpret data to inform the development of affordability programs. Equitable Design: Support the design of human-centered policies and processes that address community needs and advance racial equity. Communication & StrategyExecutive Briefing: Produce succinct briefing documents and presentations for staff and executive leadership. Complex Information Sharing: Translate complex policy and financial information into clear, accessible communications for diverse audiences and partner in developing an organization system for knowledge sharing across program staff. Project Planning: Assist in project planning and the evolution of work plans as policy needs shifts. Collaboration & EngagementMeeting Facilitation: Practice and assist in the facilitation of meetings involving various internal and external stakeholders. Interdepartmental Coordination: Participate in interdepartmental collaboration to foster a relational culture across the City. Community Impact: Support initiatives that expand access to resources for historically underserved communities . Learning ObjectivesThrough this role, you will bridge the gap between academic theory and municipal policy practice. By the conclusion of this term, you will have:Developed a foundational understanding of SPU policies and the City’s Utility Assistance portfolio. Gained experience in applying a racial equity lens directly to public policy and community-centered design. Built a professional network through direct introductions to leaders across local government. Achieved proficiency in creating executive briefing documents and facilitating professional meetings. Experience working with other departments for collaborative work and knowledge sharing. QualificationsEducation: Currently enrolled as a Graduate Student. Fields of Study: Urban Planning, Public Policy, Community Development, Social Work, Public Health, or other relevant fields of study. Graduate students are required to maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0, throughout the duration of the internship. Desired Skills:Strong research and data interpretation skills. Ability to organize and communicate complex information effectively. Strong interpersonal skills and an interest in racial equity and community impact. Personal Attributes: Curious, resourceful, and eager to take initiative, comfortable adapting to evolving work plans. Exception: Students are not required to be enrolled during the summer sessions but must provide documentation of continued Fall enrollment at the end of Spring quarter.Additional InformationHours: During school sessions, work hours will be scheduled to complement class schedules (up to 20 hours per week). This internship permits up to 40 hours per week during breaks. Work Schedule: Flexible within Monday – Friday, 8:30 am – 5:00 pm. Primary Worksite: Seattle Municipal Tower (SMT). Duration: 1 yearSalary: The full salary range for this internship is $27.67 - $27.67 an hour. How To ApplyUpload your college/university's unofficial transcript. Attach a cover letter indicating your interest in this internship. Attach a resume clearly identifying how you meet the qualifications. Applicants selected to interview will be requested to provide references at time of interview. Note: You must attach a resume, cover letter, and transcript for the application to be considered complete. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Who may apply: The City of Seattle encourages people of all backgrounds to apply, including people of color, immigrants, refugees, women, LGBTQ, people with disabilities, veterans, and those with diverse life experience. This position is open to all qualified candidates that meet the minimum qualifications.