WWF Overview  

For 60 years, WWF has worked to help people and nature thrive. As one of the world’s leading conservation organizations, WWF works in more than 100 countries, connecting cutting-edge conservation science with the collective power of our partners in the field – with one million members in the United States and five million supporters globally, as well as partnerships with communities, companies, and governments.    

At WWF, we are working to create an organization where the richness of all our unique views, experiences, and backgrounds combine to create the most sustainable and inclusive conservation outcomes possible, bringing the greatest benefit to the planet and every person who lives on it. 

Across the many cultures and individuals that represent WWF, we are unified by one mission, one brand, and one common set of values: Courage, Respect, Integrity and Collaboration. 

BRIDGE is WWF’s summer internship program. Launched in 2021, it is a paid internship opportunity aimed at a pool of talented undergraduate and graduate students who could bring fresh thinking and innovation to the environmental sector. In particular, WWF aims to employ interns who have not previously had a breadth of professional experience and have not previously considered conservation as a career pathway. 

Position Summary 

Given the wide array of issues that the Policy and Government Affairs (PGA) staff covers, research and analysis may entail working with legislation, regulations, and potentially court cases. By contrast, research, analysis, and support may include assessment of government agencies' roles, policies, and positions on issues relating to WWF's mission, or writing of brief materials about U.S. government agencies. 

Outreach may entail covering congressional hearings and markups, and preparing and attending congressional, administration, and/or NGO coalition briefings. Subject matter will cover many of the issues in which WWF is involved, including biodiversity conservation (e.g., endangered species and habitat protection), natural resource management (e.g., fisheries, forestry, and agriculture), environment and security, climate change, and energy. 

Internship Description: 

• Research, writing & analysis on various topics which may include food and water security, foreign assistance, marine and fisheries issues, species/wildlife trafficking, climate change, and national security programs. 

• Legislative tracking and research. 

• Attend Congressional hearings and briefings, as well as NGO coalition meetings. 

• Outreach to Capitol Hill and the Administration on legislation and rulemaking. 

Minimum Requirements: 

• Pursuing an associate’s or bachelor’s program in conservation and sustainable development issues with a concentration in Public Policy, Political Science, US Government, or International Relations. Those studying outside these areas are still highly encouraged to apply. Must be an actively enrolled student and not received degree at time of internship start date (June 16, 2025). 

• Interest and willingness to learn about Capitol Hill, the Administration (specifically U.S. State Department, and Council on Environmental Quality) and other non-governmental organizations. 

• Excellent written and verbal communications skills. 

• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment, collaboratively and independently. 

• Strong interpersonal skills crucial for developing working relationships, internally and externally. 

• Strong organizational skills. 

• Attention to detail. 

• Identifies and aligns with WWF’s core values: Courage, Integrity, Respect, and Collaboration.  

• Demonstrates courage by speaking up even when it is difficult, or unpopular.  

• Builds trust with colleagues by acting with integrity, owning mistakes, and holding oneself accountable.  

• Welcomes other points of view and ideas, recognizing and embracing different and contrary perspectives with kindness, curiosity, and encouragement.  

• Makes conscious efforts to promote cooperative practices, behaviors, and ways of working across many groups and individuals.  

Preferred Qualifications:  

• Subject expertise in one or more of the following areas is preferred, but not required:  

• Knowledge of US Government structure and procedures. 

Learning Outcomes 

• Understand WWF’s goals and policy priorities. 

• Understand the intersection of environmental NGO and US Government policies. 

• Gain a deep understanding and exposure to the federal policy-making process. 

• Develop personal and professional outreach skills and expand their professional networks. 

• Expand writing, editing, and researching skills. 

WWF interns will be offered a set of professional development opportunities, aimed at increasing their exposure to conservation and sustainability careers. This includes: 

• Development discussions with their manager; 

• Up to two online courses through Cornell University’s eCornell program; 

• Speed mentoring with different WWF teams; 

• Opportunity to present their work to intern peers and WWF staff; 

• Session on resume and interviewing best practices. 

Interns will also have access to an array of networking opportunities. This includes meetings with WWF’s staff and leadership team. 

Location: 

US-DC-Washington  

**This is a hybrid position that requires the intern to be in the WWF Washington, DC Headquarters Office a minimum of 2 days per week.** 

Compensation: 

Paid - $20.50 per hour (full-time, 35 hours per week) 

Internship Dates: 

Internship will run from June 16, 2025 to August 22, 2025 

How to Apply: 

Please submit a resume & cover letter through our Careers page. In your cover letter, please describe: 

• Your relevant skills and interest for this position 

• Your connection to nature and the environment  

• What obstacles have you experienced trying to break into the field of environmental conservation? 

• How you could contribute to the field of conservation. 

If selected for the role, you will need to provide 1 letter of recommendation as part of the WWF application process.  

Please note: Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. This position is not eligible for employment visa sponsorship.  In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.