Internships

Commerce’s Energy Emergency Management Program is looking for an Energy Emergency Management Intern to contribute to planning, training, exercise and operations. The intern will gain first-hand experiences that align with the values of Commerce.

  • Work collaboratively with key partners.
  • Learn fundamental energy security and emergency management principles.
  • Assist in key program areas.
  • Attend training and development opportunities.
  • Learn various processes, functions and responsibilities related to the Washington State Energy sector.

Program details

The Energy Emergency Management Internship position provides the intern with an opportunity to participate in the daily activities of a statewide program. Activities include planning projects, exercises and corrective action processes, and special projects as necessary. This internship is within the State Energy Office Energy Emergency Management Program and will expose the intern to energy critical infrastructure partners, neighboring state partners, and state emergency operations center and emergency support functions.

Position responsibilities

Successful applicants will demonstrate an ability to meet responsibilities, demonstrate the ability to respond to change and understand that there will be the expectation that there will be ongoing shifts in priorities. Successful applicants will understand the need to perform tasks or outputs that require accuracy and detail-level attention, demonstrates the ability to speak, write and present clearly. Demonstrate a basic understanding of organizational project management practices and tools. Demonstrate an understanding of emergency management, experience in NIMS and ICS, an interest in energy critical infrastructure. All duties are to be performed in accordance with the Department of Commerce policies, practices, and procedures.

Qualifications

  • Current enrollment or recent graduate of a bachelor’s degree or master’s degree program from an accredited college or university.
  • Proficiency in MS Word, Excel, Outlook, and Smart Sheets.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Successful candidates will be self-starters with excellent communication, research, and applicable technical skills.
  • Ability to work on some occasions with minimal supervision.
  • Ability to be dynamic in project management as EM projects are prioritized and re-prioritized on a regular basis.

Internship Benefits

Participants can obtain valuable in-depth experience in emergency management and other related fields.

  • Work with experienced professionals in the field of emergency management and critical infrastructure.
  • Get relevant experience for resume building.
  • Develop confidence walking into an interview with numerous examples to use.
  • Obtain greater understanding of career possibilities and areas of interest.
  • Will work directly with Energy Emergency Management Director in supporting the program administrative requirements.
  • Research and assist in the development of energy emergency management plans.
  • Attend training and/or workshops in or near the Olympia and Camp Murray.
  • Completes special projects as assigned by department management.

Flexible options

Internships are available throughout the year. The Internship Program runs throughout the year parallel to the semester cycle. Offerings are available during spring, summer, and fall and are flexible based on the requirements of your school. Specific schedules will vary according to the position. The internship should be at least six months in length so the student can gain enough experience in the emergency management field to benefit them in the workplace, and not to exceed one year. Intern responsibilities and tasks vary by availability and can include conducting research, plan development/review, attending meetings, training and exercise development and more. Students will work with the Emergency Management Director for guidance and support. The Energy Emergency Management Program internship is an unpaid. However, we offer college credit for participation in this investment toward your future.

Application instructions

Before applying, please read all instructions carefully and ensure that you meet the eligibility requirements:

  • Attending a four year college or university or have recently graduated (within one year) and able to work in person in Olympia, Washington.
  • Enrolled in a bachelor’s or master’s degree program and in good academic standing.
  1. Follow the process by your school to arrange for credit. You are responsible for meeting all internal application requirements and deadlines set by your institution.
  2. Request letters of recommendations from one academic and one personal or professional reference:
    • The academic reference should from a college faculty member who can speak to your writing and reach search abilities and your general academic performance, TA’s are acceptable references.
    • The personal or professional reference should be from someone who has worked with you and knows you well, such as an employer, coach, advisor, volunteer manager, or someone in a similar role who can speak to your character, work ethic, and interpersonal skills. Do not use family members or personal friends as a reference.
    • Include the letters of reference as an attachment with your application.
  3. Prepare a resume and cover letter describing your work, volunteer, and academic experience, demonstrating why you meet the qualifications for the internship. Your cover letter should be formatted like a business letter. Prepare a list of 4 professional references, they can include the two individuals who are writing your reference letters.
  4. Choose ONE of the following prompts and write a one-page personal essay responding to it. Essays should be well-edited, professional (not academic) in tone, and tell us something about who you are as a person. Do not use your essay to take a stand on a political issue or summarize your resume. Your essay should clearly state which prompt you are addressing.
    • What is a book, film, or work of art that has influenced you?
    • What is the best advice you’ve gotten? How did it impact you and/or what lessons did you learn?
    • Some students have a background, identify, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, share your story.

Resources

Contact

Elizabeth King
Energy Emergency Management Director
Elizabeth.King@commerce.wa.gov
360-764-0126