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 – more than one million supporters in the United States and five million globally, as well as partnerships with communities, companies, and governments. 

Our vision for diversity, equity, and inclusion at WWF is an organization as diverse as the world we protect where the richness of all our unique views, experiences, and backgrounds combines to create the most sustainable and inclusive conservation outcomes possible – bringing the greatest benefit to the planet and every person who lives in 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. 

Position Summary

WWF seeks a Plastic & Material Science Intern with demonstrated skills in project management, research and analysis, stakeholder engagement, and events planning. The intern will work closely with members of WWF’s Private Sector Engagement department on the Plastic & Material Science team, specifically on projects related to biobased and biodegradable materials, alternative materials, and responsible feedstock sourcing. This internship provides an opportunity to engage with business stakeholders, improve research and project coordination skills in a professional setting, gain knowledge about supply chains and sourcing, corporate sustainability, public policy, and environmental issues, and contribute to WWF’s mission. The work will involve research and project management in support of programs that address plastic pollution. 

Hourly Rate: $20.50-$22.50 per hour, 35 hours per week.

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. This position is eligible to be 100% remote.

Location: Washington, D.C. or US Remote. WWF employs interns in all states except for: Hawaii, Idaho, Kentucky, Nevada, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Rhode Island and Wyoming

• Support project management, stakeholder engagement, and administrative coordination for sustainability initiatives within the Plastic & Material Science team.
• Assist in planning and executing multi-stakeholder events, including coordination with external partners such as companies, NGOs, and WWF network offices.
• Conduct research and analysis on environmental performance and supply chain risks of materials (e.g., consumer goods packaging) and their potential product applications with a particular focus on biobased and recovered materials.
• Develop written materials and engagement assets by synthesizing technical information and aligning findings with WWF’s broader conservation mission.
• Supporting the work of the WWF Plastic & Material Science team and other duties as assigned related to circular economy, corporate sustainability, and project management.

Learning Outcomes

• Develop project management and coordination skills through sustainability-focused initiatives and multi-stakeholder event planning.
• Strengthen research and analytical abilities by assessing environmental performance and supply chain risks of recovered and biobased materials.
• Enhance technical communication by producing reports, presentations, blogs, and other corporate engagement materials.
• Gain exposure to corporate sustainability strategies and stakeholder engagement with companies, NGOs, and WWF offices.
• Build foundational knowledge of environmental policy, circular economy, and commodity sourcing risks.
• Experience professional collaboration in a mission-driven organization aligned with WWF’s core values of courage, respect, integrity, and collaboration.

• Current or recent graduate student in a relevant field such as corporate sustainability, natural resources, material science, environmental science, or sustainable development are preferred; highly qualified undergraduate students may be considered. Those studying outside these areas are still highly encouraged to apply.   
• Ability to work full-time (35 hours per week) for 6 months is required.
• Strong attention to detail, time management, and ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team setting.
• Excellent research, analytical, and professional communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office tools (Outlook, Teams, OneNote, Excel, PowerPoint, Word) and willingness to learn new platforms.
• Preferred experience in managing research projects, engaging external collaborators, and familiarity with environmental impacts and corporate sustainability.
• Preferred knowledge of topics related to circular systems, biobased plastic, alternative materials, agriculture, forestry, and climate.
• Fluency in English is required.
• 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.

To Apply: 

• Submit cover letter and resume through our Careers Page, Requisition #IN-26013

• Due to the high volume of applications, we are not able to respond to inquiries via phone 

World Wildlife Fund (WWF) promotes equal employment opportunities for all qualified individuals regardless of age, race, color, sex, religion, national origin, disability, or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected under applicable law.