Carbon Accounting Intern

Location: Colorado or New York based with hybrid set up 

Duration: January 2025 – April 2025 

Hours: 10–15 hours per week 

Compensation: $25/hour USD

Who is Optera? 

We build software to help the world’s largest companies stop climate change. Our market-leading products provide companies with the tools and insight they need to reduce the environmental impacts of their businesses, supply chains, and products. We are backed by some of the most respected US-based venture capital firms and have a robust client list, including leading Fortune 500 companies such as Dell, Cisco, HPE, Williams-Sonoma, and Target. 

What problem are we solving? 

In short, Optera is the data solution to stop climate change. Major corporations are the largest source of carbon emissions. Across the globe, companies are responding to pressure to address climate change by setting goals to aggressively reduce emissions by 2050. Our software enables corporate teams to collect, manage, and analyze emissions data across their operations, supply chain, and products, all with the aim of achieving their goals and halting Climate Change. 

Why work at Optera? 

Our team dedicates our skills, talents, and time to make the world a more sustainable place for future generations. We have a collaborative and dynamic culture where everyone plays a critical role and has room to learn and grow. Balance between work and life is key to our success, and we provide our teammates the flexibility, space, and support to thrive personally and professionally. 

Role Overview

We are seeking a detail-oriented and analytical Carbon Accounting Intern to join our team for the Spring 2025 semester. This part-time internship is ideal for a data-savvy individual passionate about sustainability and carbon management. You will gain hands-on experience analyzing large datasets, applying Optera’s SaaS tools and custom Excel-based methodologies, and working with the Greenhouse Gas Protocol Corporate Standard framework to support greenhouse gas (GHG) inventory development for Optera’s diverse client base.  

Responsibilities 

• Collect, clean, and analyze emissions data from various sources to create accurate and comprehensive GHG inventories, in accordance with the Greenhouse Gas Protocol Corporate Standard. 

• Use intermediate Excel functions (e.g., pivot tables, formulas, data validation) to organize, process, and present emissions data effectively. 

• Conduct trend analysis and create dashboards to visualize emissions and sustainability metrics. 

• Research emerging trends, regulations, and technologies in sustainability and carbon management. 

• Contribute to Scope 1, Scope 2, and Scope 3 emissions reporting and identify data gaps or inconsistencies. 

• Collaborate with team members to develop and refine tools for tracking and managing emissions data. 

Qualifications 

• Currently pursuing a master’s degree in Environmental Science, Data Science, Engineering, Sustainability, or a related field.

• Familiarity with carbon accounting principles and Greenhouse Gas Protocol Corporate Standard.

• Strong analytical skills and demonstrated proficiency in Microsoft Excel, including advanced features (e.g., VLOOKUP, INDEX/MATCH, macros).

• Strong organizational and communication skills, able to clearly explain data insights.

• Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.

• Experience with data analysis, visualization tools (e.g., Power BI, Tableau), or programming languages (e.g., Python, R) is not necessary but would be a plus.

What You’ll Gain 

• Hands-on experience working with real-world emissions data and contributing to impactful sustainability initiatives for Optera’s clients. 

• Advanced skills in data analysis and Excel, applicable across industries. 

• Exposure to leading carbon accounting methodologies and best practices. 

• Mentorship and collaboration with sustainability experts. 

• The opportunity to explore a career in carbon management, data analysis, or environmental consulting. 

Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion  

Optera is committed to creating a diverse environment that is safe and welcoming to all. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status. We take this very seriously and expect that you do too.  

Thanks for taking the time to apply!