Tech Intern

Deadline: Rolling application 

About the Tech Arm

The Access Tech team provides technology solutions and real time advice for activists and civil society in circumstances where communications are not open, free, and safe. Through thought leadership, technology development, and partnerships, we aim to effect positive systemic change to extend the enjoyment of digital rights of users at risk around the world.

Access Tech provides security incident response, forensic investigation and analysis, secure hosting, net-censorship circumvention capacity, technology-related instructional materials, and a liberation technologies development and engagement platform for our civil society clients, partner organizations, and users in the general public.

About the Internship

Tech interns will work with the Technology Director and other members of the Tech Team to respond to current and emerging threats to digital rights. Tech interns will participate as full members of the Tech Team, including specifying, provisioning, and configuring equipment, setting up secure communications systems, developing software, writing documentation, compiling and analyzing data, writing reports, blogging, assisting with security incident response and forensic investigations, and participating in the development and execution of Access’ signature initiatives.

Particularly talented and committed tech interns may be extended an invitation to join the Access Tech Fellowship Program, where they will further have the opportunity to conduct substantive research in an area of their choice that falls under the purview of Access’ organizational mission.

Qualifications

Successful applicants will be bright, highly motivated individuals with strong academic records and an interest and aptitude for communications technology, information security, internet freedom, public organizing, and human rights. Tech interns will be actively involved in building Access’ technical capability, and as such, must be self-starters with proven research and analytical skills, strong data management abilities, the capacity to multitask in a fast-paced environment, and a passion for the use of technology to make the world a better place. A fluency in a foreign language is a plus, but not required of this position.

While it is preferable that interns be located in New York City for the duration of their internship, since most of Access’ work is conducted virtually, applicants will be considered from locations worldwide. The start and end dates of this internship are negotiable.

Time Commitment

• One full academic term (usually 3 to 4 months)
• 15-20 hours per week (more if desirable; negotiable depending on specific circumstances of candidate)

Application Requirements

To apply, send a copy of your CV, a cover letter explaining your interest and qualifications for the position, and two references (only one may be academic) to jobs@accessnow.org. Please place “Tech Intern – [Your Name]” as the subject line. 

Access is an international NGO based in New York, NY. We are an equal opportunity employer. We value and encourage diversity and consider applicants for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, gender, sex, national origin, age, disability, marital or veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other legally protected status.

NOTE: Applications with an abundance of spelling and grammar errors will not be considered. Please take time to submit the strongest application possible.