BRIDGE Freshwater Inclusive Conservation Undergraduate Intern

Job Posting Organization:
The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) is one of the world’s leading conservation organizations, established 60 years ago. With operations in nearly 100 countries, WWF connects cutting-edge conservation science with the collective power of nearly one million supporters in the United States and five million globally. The organization partners with communities, companies, and governments to create sustainable and inclusive conservation outcomes. WWF is committed to diversity and inclusion, aiming to unify various perspectives and backgrounds to benefit the planet and all its inhabitants. The organization operates under core values of Courage, Respect, Integrity, and Collaboration, fostering an environment where diverse views are welcomed and encouraged.

Job Overview:
The BRIDGE internship program at WWF is designed to provide undergraduate and graduate students with a paid opportunity to gain professional experience in the environmental sector. The BRIDGE Freshwater Inclusive Conservation Undergraduate Intern will work specifically with the Freshwater Team to advance Inclusive Conservation (IC) approaches across various freshwater strategies and basin programs. The intern will receive training on WWF’s IC approach and will be responsible for updating assessments for multiple freshwater workstreams, including the Corporate Water Stewardship Strategy and the Rio Grande/Bravo program. This role is crucial for enhancing the understanding and application of IC principles in freshwater conservation efforts, thereby contributing to WWF's broader mission of promoting sustainable practices that benefit both people and nature.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will lead a review of 3-5 Freshwater Team strategies and/or basin programs focusing on Inclusive Conservation. Responsibilities include facilitating discussions to identify gaps and strengths in current strategies, recommending areas for improved application of IC principles, and prioritizing pathways for implementation. The intern will also engage in discussions with team members to gather insights and feedback, ensuring that the recommendations are well-informed and actionable. Additionally, the intern will participate in professional development opportunities, including development discussions with their manager, online courses through Cornell University’s eCornell program, speed mentoring sessions, and networking opportunities with WWF staff and leadership.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must be actively enrolled in an associate’s or bachelor’s program in Environmental Science, Natural Resources and Ecology Management, Sociology, Agriculture, Public Policy, Sociology, Anthropology, or related fields. While these areas of study are preferred, students from other disciplines are encouraged to apply. Applicants must not have received their degree by the internship start date of June 1, 202

• Candidates should demonstrate alignment with WWF’s core values, showcasing courage, integrity, respect, and collaboration in their interactions and work. This includes the ability to speak up in challenging situations, build trust with colleagues, embrace diverse perspectives, and promote cooperative practices.

Educational Background:
The position requires candidates to be pursuing an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in relevant fields such as Environmental Science, Natural Resources and Ecology Management, Sociology, Agriculture, Public Policy, Sociology, Anthropology, or similar disciplines. While specific coursework in these areas is beneficial, students from other academic backgrounds are also encouraged to apply, provided they can demonstrate a strong interest in conservation and environmental issues.

Experience:
While prior professional experience is not required, candidates with some experience in water resource management or freshwater ecology will be preferred. Additionally, having completed at least one course or having practical experience that involves analyzing work through a social science lens will be advantageous. The internship is designed for individuals who may not have extensive professional backgrounds but are eager to learn and contribute to the field of conservation.

Languages:
While there are no specific language requirements mentioned, proficiency in English is mandatory as the internship will involve communication with various stakeholders and the completion of written reports. Additional language skills may be considered an asset, particularly if they relate to the regions or communities involved in WWF's conservation efforts.

Additional Notes:
This is a paid internship position, offering compensation of $21 per hour for a full-time commitment of 35 hours per week. The internship will run from June 1 to August 7, 202

• The position is flexible in terms of location, allowing the intern to work from Washington DC or other states, with the exception of Hawaii, Kentucky, Nevada, Oklahoma, and Wyoming. Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. and are not eligible for employment visa sponsorship. Upon selection, candidates will need to provide one letter of recommendation as part of the application process. The application deadline is set for Monday, March 16 at 11:59 PM Eastern Standard Time.