Coasts and Climate Graduate Student Internship Summer 2026 at The Surfrider Foundation (Remote Role in USA) Apply Now!

The Surfrider Foundation, a renowned non-profit dedicated to the protection and enjoyment of the world’s ocean, waves, and beaches, is seeking a Graduate Student for the Dillon Henry Memorial Internship.

This is a Summer 2026 remote internship focusing on coastal management policy research. It is an exceptional opportunity for graduate students passionate about climate change to contribute to Surfrider’s annual assessment of state coastal resilience policies under the guidance of the Senior Manager.

Detailed Role & Key Responsibilities

As the Coasts and Climate Intern, you will act as a policy researcher and communicator. Your work will directly influence how Surfrider advocates for stronger coastal protections. Key responsibilities include:

1. Policy Research & Analysis

You will dive deep into the laws that protect our shorelines.

• State Policy Assessment: Conduct policy, law, and legislative research on state laws and regulations related to sea level rise planning, coastal hazards, sediment management, and coastal armoring.
• Legislative Research: Analyze how different states are implementing the Coastal Zone Management Act and other resilience measures.

2. Content Creation & Advocacy

• Written Content: Produce engaging content for Surfrider’s Coastal Blog and other platforms to communicate complex policy issues to the public.
• Policy Documents: Assist staff in developing policy memos, comment letters, and verbal testimony for legislative hearings.

Eligibility Criteria: Who Can Apply?

Surfrider is looking for a specific profile for this advanced role. Please ensure you meet the academic credit requirement.

1. Educational Status (Mandatory)

• Graduate Student: Must be currently enrolled in a graduate program focused on coastal policy or environmental management.
• Academic Credit: The internship must result in academic credit. If your program does not offer credit for internships, you may not be eligible.

2. Knowledge & Skills

• Domain Expertise: Knowledge of local, state, and national ocean policy, with a specific emphasis on the Coastal Zone Management Act (CZMA).
• Research: Experience conducting thorough research projects and literature reviews.
• Communication: Ability to translate complex policy findings into common language for broad audiences.

3. Technical Proficiency

• Proficient with Google Docs, Sheets, Slides, and Zoom for remote collaboration.

Logistics & Work Environment

• Remote: This is a 100% remote position, allowing you to work from anywhere in the U.S.
• Duration: Summer 2026.
• Independence: Ability to work independently is crucial given the remote nature of the role.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Is this internship paid?
A: The listing does not specify a salary but explicitly states that the internship must result in academic credit. Applicants should clarify financial details during the application process.

Q: Can undergraduates apply?
A: No. The title and requirements specifically state "Graduate Student Internship" and "Currently enrolled in a graduate program."

Q: What is the Dillon Henry Memorial Internship?
A: It is a named internship program within Surfrider, honoring the memory of Dillon Henry, often focusing on high-level policy and environmental protection work.

How to Apply

If you are ready to turn your policy research into real-world coastal protection, submit your application to The Surfrider Foundation.

APPLY NOW: Surfrider Foundation Careers