IN-26041 Policy and Government Affairs Undergraduate Intern

Overview

World Wildlife Fund (WWF), one of the world’s leading conservation organizations, seeks a Policy and Government Affairs Undergraduate Intern.

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.

Position Summary

Given the diversity 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 plastics.

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.

Responsibilities

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

Qualifications

Minimum Requirements:

• Pursuing an Associate’s or Bachelor’s program related to 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 (September 7, 2026).
• 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.
• Interest and willingness to learn about Capitol Hill, the Administration (specifically U.S. State Department, and U.S. Department of Agriculture) 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 and attention to detail.
• 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.
  

Preferred Qualifications

• Subject expertise in one or more of the following areas is preferred, but not required:
• Knowledge of US Government structure and procedures.
  

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-26041
• 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.