U.S. Government Partnerships Spring 2027 Intern

Job Posting Organization:
The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) is a leading global conservation organization founded in 196

• With a mission to help people and nature thrive, WWF operates in over 100 countries worldwide. The organization partners with communities, companies, and governments to protect wildlife, conserve vital habitats, and advance sustainable solutions. Grounded in science and driven by collaboration, WWF focuses on conserving biodiversity, supporting resilient communities, and addressing climate change. Nearly 1 million individuals in the United States and more than 5 million globally are members of WWF, reflecting its extensive outreach and commitment to environmental conservation.

Job Overview:
The U.S. Government Partnerships (USGP) Spring 2027 Intern will play a crucial role in supporting WWF's fundraising efforts by conducting research on federal agencies, funding programs, and emerging opportunities within the U.S. government landscape. This internship offers hands-on experience in identifying U.S. government opportunities, managing proposal development, and contributing to WWF’s priorities, which include wildlife trafficking, biodiversity conservation, sustainable food systems, fisheries and oceans, freshwater conservation, community-based conservation, and international development. The intern will be expected to work in a hybrid capacity, attending the WWF HQ DC office two days a week, allowing for a blend of in-person collaboration and remote work.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern's responsibilities will include monitoring U.S. government websites, newsletters, grants databases, and agency communications to identify relevant funding opportunities for WWF. They will conduct research and analysis on federal agency priorities, programs, budgets, strategic plans, and policy developments to inform opportunity assessments and proposal strategies. The intern will support proposal development efforts through background research, document preparation, coordination of team inputs, and tracking of proposal deadlines and milestones. Additionally, they will assist with pipeline management by researching and tracking funding opportunities and maintaining opportunity records and related databases. The intern will develop agency and program profiles for key federal funders, including USDA, NOAA, USAID, and the U.S. Department of State. They will also conduct research and prepare brief summaries on technical and thematic topics relevant to WWF's conservation and development programs, monitor and summarize webinars, agency briefings, Congressional hearings, and other events relevant to federal funding programs and government priorities, and assist in stakeholder mapping and organizational research to support strategic engagement with federal agencies, partners, and implementing organizations.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must be current undergraduate or graduate students, actively enrolled and not having received a degree at the time of the internship start date in January 202

• They should have a demonstrated interest in conservation and/or international development issues, particularly with a concentration in International Relations, Public Policy, American Government, or Political Science. While those studying outside these areas are encouraged to apply, a strong interest and willingness to learn about Capitol Hill, the Administration (specifically USDA, NOAA, and U.S. State Department), and non-governmental organizations is essential. Excellent written and verbal communication skills are required, along with the ability to work in a fast-paced environment both collaboratively and independently. Strong interpersonal skills are crucial for developing working relationships, and candidates should possess strong organizational skills and attention to detail. Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite is necessary, and experience with data management or CRM systems is a plus. Candidates must align with WWF’s core values of courage, integrity, respect, and collaboration.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this internship includes being a current undergraduate or graduate student. Candidates must be enrolled in a program that allows them to receive academic credit for the internship, which is a prerequisite for participation. The ideal candidates will have a focus on fields related to conservation, international development, public policy, or political science, although students from other disciplines are also encouraged to apply if they demonstrate a strong interest in the relevant issues.

Experience:
The level of experience needed for this position is primarily academic, as the internship is designed for current students who are seeking practical experience in the field of conservation and government partnerships. Candidates should have a foundational understanding of the U.S. government structure and funding mechanisms, as well as a keen interest in learning about the intersection of policy and conservation efforts. Previous internships or volunteer experiences related to environmental issues, policy analysis, or research may be beneficial but are not strictly required.

Languages:
While there are no specific language requirements mentioned, proficiency in English is mandatory given the nature of the work and the need for effective communication. Additional language skills may be considered an asset, particularly if they relate to WWF's international conservation efforts, but they are not explicitly stated as a requirement for this internship.

Additional Notes:
This internship is unpaid, and applicants must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. The position is not eligible for employment visa sponsorship, and all hired individuals will be required to verify their identity and eligibility to work in the United States. The internship is for Spring 2027, and candidates must be able to work either part-time or full-time depending on their class schedules and availability. Interns are required to come into the WWF-US Washington, D.C. office two days a week as part of the hybrid work model. Applicants must include a cover letter with their application, indicating their availability and location for the Spring 2027 semester, as well as the number of hours they can work from the WWF DC Office.