Schneider Summer Fellowships: RMI 2025

Through the Schneider Fellows program, Stanford students work at leading U.S. nongovernmental organizations in the sustainable energy field. Schneider Summer Fellows spend a summer quarter tackling the world’s economic, environmental, social, and technical challenges associated with harnessing energy resources to deliver energy services.

Fellows receive a stipend of $10,000 for a 12-week summer fellowship. In addition, additional funding of up to $1500 is available for fellowship-related travel. 

RMI is an independent nonprofit founded in 1982 that transforms global energy systems through market-driven solutions to align with a 1.5°C future and secure a clean, prosperous, zero-carbon future for all. The organization works in the world’s most critical geographies and engage businesses, policymakers, communities, and NGOs to identify and scale energy system interventions that will cut greenhouse gas emissions at least 50 percent by 2030. RMI has offices in Basalt and Boulder, Colorado; New York City; Oakland, California; Washington, D.C.; and Beijing. 

One selected RMI intern from Stanford will be designated as a Schneider Fellow.

Transform your career with RMI

RMI believes that diverse voices and experiences are essential in addressing today’s energy challenges. RMI welcomes and encourages candidates from underrepresented and minoritized communities to apply, as the organization works toward creating a more inclusive, equitable future in the energy transition. 

Interns arrive as students and leave as early career professionals ready to impact the world! Whether it’s through improving energy systems in vulnerable regions, brainstorming new ways to increase environmental equity for low-income households, or using your creative talent to design inclusive social media templates – mold and shape your career with RMI. 

Internship Program Overview 

RMI welcomes a group of interns every summer into their three-month internship program, and you could be a part of it! This rewarding experience will fully integrate you into an existing or new project where your ideas, opinions, and assistance are valued. To learn more, please visit https://rmi.org/about/careers/internships/. 

Summer 2025 Start and End Date Options: 

• May 20 – August 15 
• June 3 – August 29 
• June 17 – September 12 

No exceptions can be made to these dates. 

Focus Areas 

In your cover letter, please identify up to two focus areas that you would like to be considered for. Keep reading below for additional information about the cover letter requirements. 

1. Finance / Accounting 
2. Policy Innovation and Impact 
3. Sustainable Buildings and Design 
4. Urban and Community Engagement 
5. Sector Research and Insights 
6. Data Analytics and Visualization 
7. Technology Systems and Solutions 
8. Project and Operations Management 
9. Media Relations and Communications 

Application Requirements 

Resume (Required) 

RMI suggests a 1–2-page resume that includes information about your academic background and work experience. Feel free to add additional sections that highlight any leadership roles you’ve held, relevant coursework, volunteer history, academic projects that you’ve completed, conference presentations, or any articles that have been published. 

Cover Letter (Required) 

Answer the following questions below as part of your cover letter submission. This is a chance for RMI to learn more about you outside of your resume. 

1. Please identify which focus area(s) you would like to be considered for, and what personal experiences inspired your interest and passion in environmental or energy causes. 
2. What does environmental equity and justice mean to you, and why is it critical in the energy sector? 
3. What do you hope to learn or accomplish during an internship at RMI, and how do you see this experience shaping your future in the field of energy and sustainability? 

General Qualifications 

• Currently enrolled in college, preferably as a junior or senior. RMI also considers master level graduate students and recent graduates as well. At this time, doctoral applicants are better suited for RMI's Associate positions. 
• You have completed classes, projects, labs, or experiences related to the focus area(s) you have identified.
• You are comfortable working with datasets and conducting research. 
• You are passionate about clean energy, sustainability, environmental equity, and/or decarbonization. 
• You feel a commitment to creating a more inclusive, equitable future in clean energy. 
• You’re comfortable with communication and excited to collaborate with peers. 
• You enjoy responsibility and take pride in your work. 
• You have the permanent, legal right to work in the U.S. RMI is unable to sponsor visas for interns. 

Benefits 

Schneider Fellows receive a stipend of $10,000 for a 12-week summer fellowship. Additional funding of up to $1500 is available for fellowship-related travel. 

• 403b retirement options (up to 5% match immediately) 
• Accrued paid time off 
• Mental Health Days and Holidays 
• Fully remote and hybrid work options 
• Free coffee, snacks, and laughs in the office 
• You will experience a fun internship by participating in summer activities including team retreats, and professional development workshops like resume and job search tips! 

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion 

Increasing the diversity of thought, perspectives, ideas and opinions within RMI is a critical change element supporting the organization's long-term sustainability and mission to build a clean, prosperous, and secure energy future. 

RMI strives for a level of diversity that reflects the communities they serve. Achieving this—regardless of ability, race, ethnicity, ancestry, age, gender, sexual orientation, religion, veteran status, socioeconomic class, educational attainment or other social identities—is critical to the success of each RMIer and collectively as an organization. This ensures that RMI: 

• Has the different array of thinking that comes from diverse backgrounds and cultures, enabling the organization to solve some of the world’s greatest challenges. 
• Strives for a culture of inclusion and belonging by treating others with dignity, respect and appreciation enabling them to feel welcomed, supported and valued. 
• Effectively connects, communicates and builds long-lasting relationships with decision makers, stakeholders and constituents within diverse communities.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran. 

Location 

RMI is a remote-ready organization with team members around the globe. RMI's beautiful and welcoming offices are available for meetings or focused work, whether you are traveling through or living nearby. RMI's U.S. offices are in New York City; Washington DC; Oakland, California; Boulder, Colorado; and Basalt, Colorado.