Research Intern (California Water)

Published on by for Pacific Institute

Research Intern (California Water)

Location:  Remote; requires availability to coordinate with team members based in Pacific Time. 

Job Type:  Paid internship; $30 per hour 

Duration and Hours:  This is a 2-month internship requiring a commitment of 25-35 hours per week. Flexible Schedule. Extension beyond the initial period may be possible based on performance and funding. 

Start Date:  Available immediately. Must start no later than July 7, 2025. 

To Apply 

Please submit the following: 

About The Pacific Institute 

The Pacific Institute is a global water think tank that combines science-based thought leadership with active outreach and engagement to influence local, national, and international efforts in water sustainability and resilience. Our vision is to create a world in which society, the economy, and the environment have the water they need to thrive now and in the future. Since 1987, we have worked with diverse groups ranging from major corporations to frontline communities with a mission of creating and advancing solutions to the world’s most pressing water challenges. Our work is routinely featured in national and global top-tier media, and we engage over 270 partners, including NGOs, utilities, policymakers, businesses, and others. 

About the Role: 

This Research Intern role will conduct a water security and risk analysis for a large water user in California (15-25 hours per week). With mentorship and guidance from senior research staff, the Research Intern will perform desktop research and develop a technical report for an external client about the current and future status of California’s water resources. The report has three components. First, it will synthesize existing research and reports to provide a clear and concise overview of the present status of water resources and governance, as well as future risks and challenges at a statewide level. Second, it will dive into specific regions and watersheds where the client has operations, providing information on key water risks and local water management, planning, and governance. Finally, the report will provide high-level recommendations on actions to mitigate water-related risks.  

If the candidate has capacity for full-time work, they will also support an update to the Water Conflict Chronology (WCC) (5-10 hours per week). This will focus on the ongoing effort to evaluate external conflict databases for possible new entries for the WCC. This essential work requires organization, data management, and writing. Basic GIS skills may also be applicable. Additional work will support improving the WCC database both for outside users and for the research staff who work with the WCC database. 

This internship provides an opportunity to gain professional skills and insights into topics such as California water management and policy, corporate water stewardship, water risk, water and climate change planning, and water-related conflict. It offers meaningful experience in technical writing, data management, and independent research, as well as professional mentorship and an opportunity to contribute to the Pacific Institute’s mission. 

Responsibilities: 

California Water Security Analysis: 

Water Conflict Chronology Update: 

Minimum requirements: 

Preferred qualifications: 

No phone calls, please. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. 

About our recruitment process:  

Here’s what you can expect: 

Industry experience

Education: Masters

Seniority: Trainee, Intern

Years of experience: 1 to 5 years

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