Northside Safety NET intern, Stage 1

Northside Safety NET (Neighborhoods Empowering Teens) is an internship program for a cohort of North Minneapolis youth. The program is led by Environmental Initiative and has been developed in partnership with public, private, and nonprofit partners to:

• Integrate young people in local efforts to address environmental justice issues.
• Foster environmental literacy and practical skills of young people to create a new generation of environmental stewards.
• Increase exposure to and interest in careers related to the environment, sustainability, and green enterprises.

The innovative program model (PDF) places interns at the center of a robust learning environment designed to support consistent, long-term relationships with and between youth participants and program partners.

How to apply

High school students, ages 14-16, are encouraged to apply for the Stage 1 internship. Applications will be accepted through Sept. 29. Download the job description (PDF) →

Apply

Internship duties and responsibilities

Stage 1 interns engage in staff- and partner-led guided inquiry and hands-on activities in various environmental topic areas, including:

• Forestry.
• Renewable energy.
• Water quality.
• Agriculture.
• Sustainable land care.
• Conservation.
• Policy and planning.

Responsibilities

• Attend an orientation event to meet project partners and to learn the objectives for the year.
• Attend and engage in presentations about green jobs and environmental careers.
• Participate in skills building activities related to green careers.
• Implement sustainability related projects with and in the community.
• Shadow green job professionals in their place of work.
• Investigate community concerns and co-create solutions in a youth-led capstone project.

Compensation

Internship activities will involve around 10-15 hours per month of programming during the school year and 20 hours per week during the summer. Interns will receive a bi-weekly stipend of $15/hour as compensation for their time participating in the program.

Internship schedule

The internship is a commitment from Sept. 23, 2023 – Aug. 31, 2024. The schedule is designed to prioritize school and is busiest in summer. The anticipated schedule is as follows:

School year schedule

• Tuesdays and/or Wednesdays, 4 – 6 p.m.
• 1 – 2 Saturdays per month, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Summer schedule

• Monday – Thursday, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

*Note: This schedule is subject to change. Interns can expect a solid schedule at least a month in advance.

Transportation

Most internship activities take place at locations throughout North Minneapolis, with occasional meetings and field trips across the metro area. Interns will be expected to provide their own transportation to locations within North Minneapolis. Transportation to activities outside of North Minneapolis will be provided.

Working environment

Northside Safety NET staff work to create a supportive and inclusive working environment for aspiring youth interested in environmental careers. As an intern, you will be part of a dynamic cohort that values diversity and fosters a strong sense of community. We prioritize creating a safe, culturally relevant space where your unique perspectives are valued and respected. We believe in empowering youth voices and encourage your active participation in shaping the program. With a focus on positive youth development, you will have access to mentorship and guidance from young adult staff who understand your cultural context. Your well-being and growth are essential to us, and we aim to address any participation barriers you may face, such as transportation and food, to ensure a fulfilling and enriching internship experience.

Work location and physical requirements

Internship activities take place both indoors and outdoors. Interns can expect indoor, classroom-based activities during the late-Fall and Winter months and outdoor activities during the spring and summer months.

Physical requirements include standing, walking, kneeling, digging, pulling, and lifting.

Environmental Initiative is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization based in Minneapolis and is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Environmental Initiative values a diverse and inclusive workplace and strongly encourages Black, Indigenous, people of color, LGBTQIA+ individuals, people with disabilities, members of ethnic minorities, foreign-born residents, and veterans to apply for open positions.