BRIDGE Philanthropic Partnerships Graduate Intern

Job Posting Organization:
The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) is one of the world’s leading conservation organizations, established 60 years ago. With a mission to help people and nature thrive, WWF operates in nearly 100 countries and has a vast network of nearly one million supporters in the United States and five million globally. The organization collaborates with communities, companies, and governments to achieve sustainable and inclusive conservation outcomes. WWF is committed to diversity and inclusion, aiming to create an organization that reflects a variety of unique views, experiences, and backgrounds, unified by core values of Courage, Respect, Integrity, and Collaboration.

Job Overview:
The BRIDGE Philanthropic Partnerships Graduate Intern position at WWF offers a unique opportunity for graduate students to learn about professional foundation fundraising and its role in supporting conservation priorities. The intern will engage in various aspects of foundation engagement, including prospect research, proposal development, and grant stewardship. This internship is designed for students who may not have extensive professional experience and are interested in exploring a career in conservation. The ideal candidate will be detail-oriented, curious, and eager to understand how philanthropy contributes to large-scale conservation efforts.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Philanthropic Partnerships Intern will work closely with the Philanthropic Partnerships team at WWF-US, gaining hands-on experience in fundraising and donor stewardship. Key responsibilities include conducting research on past, current, and prospective foundation donors to support strategic fundraising efforts, developing and refining donor and prospect briefing memos, assisting staff in translating technical information into donor-facing materials, participating in internal meetings and trainings, and supporting additional projects and administrative tasks as assigned based on team needs and intern interests.

Required Qualifications:
Minimum requirements for this position include being an actively enrolled graduate student in environmental studies, international development, nonprofit management, public policy, or related fields. Candidates from other disciplines are also encouraged to apply. The intern must align with WWF’s core values of Courage, Integrity, Respect, and Collaboration, demonstrating the ability to speak up, build trust, welcome diverse perspectives, and promote cooperative practices. Strong oral and written communication skills, the ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines, adaptability, and attention to detail are essential.

Educational Background:
Candidates must be pursuing a graduate program in relevant fields such as environmental studies, international development, nonprofit management, or public policy. Those studying outside these areas are still highly encouraged to apply, provided they demonstrate a strong interest in conservation and fundraising.

Experience:
While previous experience in fundraising, grant writing, philanthropy, or nonprofit development is preferred, it is not required. Familiarity with qualitative or quantitative research methods is also a plus. The internship is particularly suited for students who have not had extensive professional experience in the field.

Languages:
The position does not specify mandatory languages, but proficiency in English is essential for effective communication within the organization and with donors. Additional language skills may be beneficial but are not explicitly required.

Additional Notes:
This is a hybrid internship position, requiring the intern to be present at the WWF Washington, DC Headquarters Office a minimum of 2 days per week. The internship is paid at a rate of $23 per hour for a full-time commitment of 35 hours per week. The internship will run from June 1 to August 7, 202

• Applicants must submit a resume and cover letter detailing their relevant skills, connection to nature, and potential contributions to conservation. A letter of recommendation will be required if selected for the role. The application deadline is March 16, 11:59 PM Eastern Standard Time, and applicants must be legally authorized to work in the U.S., as the position is not eligible for employment visa sponsorship.