Policy and Government Affairs Undergraduate Internship in Washington, District of Columbia at World Wildlife Fund, Inc.

Founded in 1961, WWF works to help people and nature thrive. As a global conservation organization, WWF operates in more than 100 countries, partnering with communities, companies, and governments to protect wildlife, conserve vital habitats, and advance sustainable solutions. Grounded in science and driven by collaboration, WWF works to help nature by conserving biodiversity, supporting resilient communities, and addressing climate change. Nearly 1 million people in the United States and more than 5 million globally are WWF members.

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.

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.

Minimum Requirements:

• 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.
• Pursuing an Associates or Bachelors 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).
• 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 WWFs core values:
  • COURAGE We demonstrate courage through our actions, we work for change where its 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 upload your resume and a cover letter as part of your application.

Due to the volume of applications, we are unable to respond to phone inquiries. Only candidates under consideration will be contacted.

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 willbe required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.

WWF does not provide VISA sponsorship to interns.

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