Policy and Government Affairs - Fall 2026 Intern

World Wildlife Fund, Inc.•Washington, DC

1h•Hybrid

About The Position

World Wildlife Fund (WWF), one of the world’s leading conservation organization, seeks a Policy and Government Affairs Fall 2026 Intern. The Policy and Government Affairs (PGA) 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 staff covers, research and analysis may entail working with legislation, regulations, and potentially court cases. By contrast, research, analysis, and support may include assessing 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. The PGA team follows the WWF-HQ hybrid schedule, and interns are expected to come into the WWF HQ DC office two days a week.

Requirements

Only enrolled students are eligible for this internship, as you must be able to receive academic credit from your current academic institution.
Students must be able to work either part-time or full-time, depending on class schedule and availability.
This internship is for Fall 2026.
Must be an actively enrolled student and not have received a degree at the time of the internship start date (September 2026).
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 USDA, NOAA, and U.S. State Department), and non-governmental organizations.
Excellent written and verbal communication 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.
Identifies and aligns with WWF’s core values: COURAGE, INTEGRITY, RESPECT, COLLABORATION.
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.

Responsibilities

Helps monitor government websites, newsletters, and databases to identify relevant funding opportunities.
Conduct research and analysis on federal agency priorities, programs, budget trends, policy developments, and technical topics to inform proposal pipeline strategy and proposal efforts.
Under the guidance of Proposal Managers, support proposal coordination tasks including tracking deadlines, organizing documents, and coordinating inputs from team members.
Assist with pipeline database management.
Support the development of the team’s AI Policy through background research.
Research, writing & analysis on various topics, including food and water security, foreign assistance, marine and fisheries issues, species/wildlife trafficking, climate change, and national security.
Monitor and summarize Congressional hearings, policy briefings, coalition meetings, and other relevant events and materials to inform organizational policy and advocacy efforts.
Conduct stakeholder and policy research to support engagement with Congressional offices, federal agencies, and Administration officials on legislation, appropriations, and rulemaking activities.