BRIDGE 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 over 100 countries and has a membership of one million in the United States and five million supporters globally. The organization collaborates with communities, companies, and governments to achieve sustainable and inclusive conservation outcomes. WWF is committed to diversity and inclusion, valuing the unique perspectives and experiences of its members to enhance its conservation efforts.

Job Overview:
The BRIDGE internship program at WWF is designed for undergraduate and graduate students, particularly those who have not previously considered a career in conservation. This paid internship focuses on researching sustainable business models in sectors such as shipping, offshore wind, and coastal tourism. The intern will analyze environmental and social risk management practices and the landscape of blue-labeled financial products. The role involves synthesizing data on global blue economy financial flows and creating profiles of financial institutions to inform strategic engagement. The internship aims to provide valuable experience in sustainable finance and environmental conservation, with a preference for candidates with relevant academic backgrounds or interests.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will conduct desk research and potentially interview stakeholders to explore the business case for sustainable blue finance. Responsibilities include reviewing sustainability frameworks and policies of financial institutions, conducting market research to update a global inventory of blue finance products, and analyzing current market practices. The intern will also identify trends and opportunities for enhancing financial institution frameworks and policies, leveraging existing guidance from organizations like UNEP and WWF's Nature Positive Oceans Framework. The role requires effective communication of complex ideas across diverse audiences and collaboration with various teams within WWF.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must be pursuing a graduate program in fields such as Economics, International/Sustainable Development, Environmental Policy, MBA, or Marine Science. Active enrollment as a student is required, and candidates should not have received their degree by the internship start date. Research experience and familiarity with corporate sustainability policies are preferred. Candidates should demonstrate an interest in cross-disciplinary work and align with WWF's core values of Courage, Integrity, Respect, and Collaboration. The ability to communicate effectively and embrace diverse perspectives is essential.

Educational Background:
A graduate-level education in relevant fields such as Economics, International/Sustainable Development, Environmental Policy, MBA, or Marine Science is required. Candidates studying outside these areas are also encouraged to apply, provided they have relevant skills and interests.

Experience:
The position requires research experience, ideally with some familiarity with corporate sustainability policies or reporting. Candidates should have academic experience related to environmental sustainability, corporate sustainability, finance, or a combination of these fields. Any prior internships or positions in conservation, finance, shipping, or offshore wind are considered beneficial but not mandatory.

Languages:
While no specific language requirements are mentioned, proficiency in English is mandatory given the nature of the work and the need for effective communication across diverse audiences. Additional language skills may be advantageous but are not explicitly required.

Additional Notes:
The internship is full-time, requiring 35 hours per week, and is compensated at a rate of $22.50 per hour. The internship will run from June 16, 2025, to August 22, 202

• The position is flexible in terms of location, allowing the intern to work from Washington DC or other states, excluding Hawaii, Kentucky, Nevada, Oklahoma, Rhode Island, and Wyoming. Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. and are not eligible for employment visa sponsorship. A resume and cover letter are required for application, along with a letter of recommendation if selected.