Policy and Government Affairs Spring 2027 Undergraduate Intern

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. 

World Wildlife Fund (WWF), one of the world’s leading conservation organization, seeks an Undergraduate Policy and Government Affairs Spring 2027 Intern. The Policy and Government Affairs department of the World Wildlife Fund is seeking part-time to full-time interns for policy research, analysis, and outreach. 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 energy.

Internship Description:

• Research, writing & analysis on various topics which may include grasslands, wildlife conservation, food and water security, marine and fisheries issues, species/wildlife trafficking, and national security.
• 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. 

Please note: This internship is for Spring 2027, located in Washington, D.C.

Desired Skills and Qualities: 

• Undergraduate student: Must be an actively enrolled student and not received degree at time of internship start date (January 2027).
• Interest in conservation and international development issues with a concentration in International Relations, Public Policy, American Government, or Political Science. Those studying outside these areas are still highly encouraged to apply.
• Interest and willingness to learn about Capitol Hill, the Administration (specifically U.S. Department of Interior, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and U.S. State Department) and 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.

Cover Letter:

Applicants who wish to be considered for this role must include a cover letter as part of their application. In your cover letter, please indicate the number of hours per week you will be available for this internship, your location for the Spring 2027 semester, and the number of hours you will be able to work from WWF’s DC Office. This is a hybrid internship based in Washington, DC.

Location:

Washington, DC

Compensation:

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

Applications will be accepted until October 30, 2026.

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. 

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.