World Wildlife Fund (WWF), one of the world’s leading conservation organizations, seeks a Plastic and Material Science Intern.

Position Summary

WWF seeks a Plastic and Material Science intern who will support the team’s objective to mobilize finance to end plastic pollution. The intern will work closely with members of WWF’s Private Sector Engagement department on the Plastic & Material Science team. This internship provides an opportunity to improve research and project coordination skills in a professional setting, gain knowledge about mobilizing finance to end plastic pollution, corporate sustainability, and environmental issues, and contribute to WWF’s mission. The work will involve research related to private and public financing mechanisms that address plastic pollution.

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.

Unpaid Internship:

Only enrolled students are eligible for this internship as you must be able to receive academic credit from your current academic institution. Able to work either part time or full time, depending on class schedule and availability.

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.

• Synthesizing key information on public and private mechanisms for funding circular solutions to plastic pollution
• Researching and evaluating corporate ESG data around circularity to support WWF’s ReSource Plastic corporate platform
• Supporting event management for WWF’s Plastic Summit
• Drafting internal memos, presentations, and emails related to the above as needed.
• Communicating and connecting analysis to broader WWF mission
• Supporting the research, writing, analysis, and administrative coordination for members of the WWF Plastic & Material Science and Private Sector Engagement teams as needed.
• Other duties as assigned related to corporate sustainability and mobilizing finance as related to circularity and plastic pollution

Learning Outcomes

• Develop understanding of the key environmental impacts and tradeoffs associated with plastic pollution
• Gain exposure to corporate engagement strategies to advance positive environmental outcomes
• Build research experience in the areas of ESG and mobilizing finance for conservation
• Gain event planning expertise for our flagstone annual event convening experts across civil society, non-governmental organizations, government, and the private sector
• Have the opportunity to join WWF- and team-wide educational discussions and learning around conservation issues

Minimum Requirements:

• Pursuing either an Associate’s or Bachelor’s or Graduate Degree program in economics, natural resources, packaging material science, supply chain management, environmental science, environmental policy, or sustainable development are preferred. Those studying outside these areas are still highly encouraged to apply.
• Demonstrated familiarity with ESG risks and opportunities and corporate sustainability strategies is preferred
• Strong analytical and research abilities
• High attention to detail and accuracy
• Ability to stay organized and manage time effectively
• Self-motivated with the ability to work independently and in a team setting
• Clear and professional written and verbal communication skills
• Proactive problem-solving skills
• Identifies and aligns with WWF’s core values:
  • COURAGE – We demonstrate courage through our actions, we work for change where it’s needed, and we inspire people and institutions to tackle the greatest threats to nature and the future of the planet, which is our home.
  • INTEGRITY – We live the principles we call on others to meet. We act with integrity, accountability, and transparency, and we rely on facts and science to guide us and to ensure that we learn and evolve.
  • RESPECT – We honor the voices and knowledge of people and communities that we serve, and we work to secure their rights to a sustainable future.
  • COLLABORATION – We deliver impact at the scale of the challenges we face through the power of collective action and innovation.

Location:

Washington, D.C. or US Remote. WWF employs interns in all states with the exception of: Hawaii, Kentucky, Nevada, Oklahoma or Wyoming.

Compensation:

Unpaid. For all unpaid internships, applicants must be enrolled in school and be able to obtain academic course credit from their university. 

*Please note that WWF does not provide VISA sponsorship to interns 

To Apply:

• Submit cover letter and resume through our Careers Page,  Requisition #IN-26025
• 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.