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Outdoor Recreation & Early Education Policy Intern

Outdoor Recreation & Early Education Policy Intern

Commonwealth of MassachusettsBoston, Massachusetts
30+ days ago
Job type
  • Part-time
Job description

Description

Outdoor Recreation & Early Education Policy Intern

The Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA), in collaboration with the Department of Early Education and Care (EEC), is seeking a passionate and detail-oriented summer intern to support an initiative led by the Office of Outdoor Recreation. The intern will assist in strengthening the connections between early childhood education programs and outdoor recreational opportunities across Massachusetts. The goal is to expand equitable access to nature for young children, families, and early education providers by supporting research, resource development, and policy exploration.

Key Responsibilities :

  • Stakeholder Research & Engagement Connect with existing early childhood outdoor programs (e.g., Boston Outdoor Preschool Network, Mass Audubon, Boston Urban Wilds, MA Farm to School) to gather insights and best practices.
  • Resource Mapping & Development Review and catalog existing resources about outdoor recreation opportunities / access (e.g., MassMapper) and identify gaps in information / tools available to early education providers. Explore opportunities for a centralized resource hub to support provider engagement with outdoor spaces.
  • Professional Development Scan Research existing training, conferences, and learning opportunities related to outdoor education. Identify areas where additional offerings may be needed or expanded.
  • Policy & Regulatory Review Support exploration of licensing regulations and other barriers that may limit outdoor space use by EEC providers. Identify potential policy changes or adjustments to enhance access.
  • Reporting & Synthesis Develop memos, summary documents, and presentations to share findings with internal teams and partners.

Preferred Skills and Qualifications :

  • Current experience, skills and / or directed study in public policy, early child care education, environmental studies, public health, or a related field.
  • Strong research, writing, and synthesis skills.
  • Interest in early childhood education, environmental justice, or outdoor recreation.
  • Experience or familiarity with state / local agencies, community-based programs, or environmental education is a plus.
  • Ability to communicate professionally with diverse stakeholders.
  • Organized, self-directed, and capable of working both independently and collaboratively.
  • Experience with Google Workspace or Microsoft Office; familiarity with GIS tools (e.g., MassMapper) is a bonus but not required.

    • The position is scheduled for June 16-August 15,2025 at approximately 15-20 hours / week.

    Qualifications

    First consideration will be given to those applicants that apply within the first 14 days.

    Please see Preferred Qualifications.

    Please note that there are no benefits associated with this position beyond earned sick leave, in accordance with state guidelines.

    Comprehensive Benefits

    When you embark on a career with the Commonwealth, you are offered an outstanding suite of employee benefits that add to the overall value of your compensation package. We take pride in providing a work experience that supports you, your loved ones, and your future.

    Want the specifics?

    Please note that there are no benefits associated with this position beyond earned sick leave, in accordance with state guidelines.

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    Education Education • Boston, Massachusetts