VPIRG Canvass

Are you feeling worried for the future of our democracy, climate, and environment? Do you feel the need to stand up for these issues? Do you want to make a difference in how Vermont responds to these concerns, all while getting paid to travel VT, biking around the most scenic parts of the state, and camping with friends?

If you answered yes, VPIRG has the job for you.

As an organization, we believe in giving young adults the toolkit they need in order to advocate for the change they want to see in the world. Knowing how to engage, organize and mobilize communities is critical to ensuring that real people (over corporations) have a seat at the table. The path to a clean environment and inclusive democracy may be hard, but we know it is the only option we have to take.

The Vermont Public Interest Research Group (VPIRG) is the largest nonprofit consumer and environmental advocacy organization in Vermont. Founded in 1972 on UVM’s campus, VPIRG’s mission is to promote the health and wellbeing of Vermont’s people, environment, and locally based economy by informing and mobilizing individuals and communities across the state. Our staff of organizers and advocates have won dozens of victories including landmark legislation regulating clean energy, toxic chemical reform, campaign finance, health care, genetically engineered food labeling, and many more.

Dates: May 4, 2025 (Rolling start dates through late-June) – August 20, 2025.

VPIRG runs a massive summer outreach campaign from our Burlington office, Monday through Thursday. As a canvasser, you’ll be biking or walking door to door, talking to Vermonters about current political issues. Through face to face conversations, you will engage them with our campaigns, fundraising, and building our membership base – and every week, there are opportunities to camp and work out of one of Vermont’s scenic state parks!

Canvassers earn $17.25/hr to start, with bonuses and ample opportunities for advancement.
In light of the dire situation that we face on a national and global level, Vermont’s leadership on issues like climate change, environmental health, and defending our democracy has become even more important. Our goal is to connect with Vermonters who are passionate about creating real, lasting change and empower them to take action, knowing that together, our collective voice is a powerful force for progress.

Each summer, we engage with thousands of Vermonters, gather thousands of petition signatures, and build widespread support for key issues. Public engagement is the driving force behind change, and we invite you to be a vital part of this initiative.
Your mission is straightforward: build the movement through effectively fundraising, educating and organizing.

Being a part of the VPIRG summer canvass increases your knowledge of environmental, political, and social issues and gives you concrete skills and experience for careers in the non-profit, environmental, and advocacy fields. Qualified candidates are dedicated, hardworking, and passionate about environmental protection and fighting the status quo – no prior canvassing experience is required!

VPIRG canvass alumni are now working at The Nature Conservancy, Vermont Natural Resources Council, the Vermont House Democrats, Seventh Generation, Ceres, the Office of Bernie Sanders, and much more including holding elected offices or becoming attorneys. Our alumni are across the country and around the world.

• 4-day work week
• Starting at $17.25/hour PLUS bonuses & rewards and/or potential class credit
• Opportunities for advancement/promotion and year-round internship opportunities
• Mentorship from professional organizers and advocates
• Resume builder for future public policy work, organizing roles, and more
• Learn about Vermont policy and how to defend the public interest

Apply today to become part of a fun and fast paced team that’s working to protect the public interest in Vermont!