The Mackinac Center’s Environmental Policy Initiative seeks assistance in collecting and analyzing raw research materials on the health and well-being of Michigan’s natural environment. Research findings will serve as the foundation for future Environmental Policy Initiative work on a “State of Michigan’s Environment” report. Research findings will also be used to help shape public debate to encourage environmental policy that promotes both a clean and healthy environment, as well as a strong and vibrant economy.
Ideal candidates for this position will demonstrate strong research skills, as well as the ability to work in a collaborative team environment, while also being able to self-motivate and maintain focus on necessary tasks. Excellent organizational, written and oral communications skills are required, as is ethical and professional conduct.
A love for the natural environment and an understanding of (or desire to learn about) free-market environmentalism, as well as an interest in natural sciences, economics and government accountability will be an asset. Potential interns should also have a careful and thorough approach to reviewing complex regulatory and legislative data, and be able to pick out pertinent information from detailed resources. Please note that a curriculum major in environmental (or natural) sciences, politics or economics is not required; students from all subject areas are encouraged to apply.
This internship provides an opportunity to work at the nation’s premiere state-based free-market public policy research and educational organization and to attend various skills and career development programs such as our Intern University, trips to the state capitol & Supreme Court, The Russell Kirk Center for Cultural Review, Issues & Ideas events and various staff and intern outings.
The employment term is a minimum of 10 full-time weeks between May and August (flexibility in start and end dates). Interns are compensated at the rate of $12 per hour, paid a housing stipend in the amount of $250 per month if their permanent address is outside a 30-mile radius of Midland and are employed on an at-will basis.
Candidates are encouraged to apply to us through the Koch Intern Program (KIP) for additional experience and consideration (application dates 2/1/20 – 4/30/20). If for some reason KIP is not an option for you, please submit a resume, a cover letter and a 700-word essay on a policy issue to the intern coordinator before March 15, 2020. If you wish to be considered for multiple positions, more than one essay is not required, but we do request a cover letter for each position with your department choices listed.
Email application materials to intern@mackinac.org or mail to:
Christine Bowerson
Director of Operations
Mackinac Center for Public Policy
140 West Main Street
P.O. Box 568
Midland, MI 48640-0568
The Mackinac Center for Public Policy is a nonprofit research and educational institute that advances the principles of free markets and limited government. Through our research and education programs, we challenge government overreach and advocate for free-market approach to public policy that frees people to realize their potential and dreams.
For more information about the Mackinac Center please visit
