IN-26010 Policy and Government Affairs Spring 2026 Undergraduate Intern

The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) is seeking a part-time to full-time Undergraduate Policy and Government Affairs Intern for Spring 2026 in Washington, DC. The role involves policy research, analysis, and outreach related to biodiversity, climate change, and resource management. Interns will attend congressional hearings and engage with government agencies. Applicants must be enrolled students eligible for academic credit and possess strong communication and organizational skills.
Overview
World Wildlife Fund (WWF), one of the world’s leading conservation organizations, seeks an Undergraduate Policy and Government Affairs Spring 2026 Intern.


Overview


The Policy and Government Affairs 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 (PGA) staff covers, research and analysis may entail working with legislation, regulations, and potentially court cases. By contrast, research, analysis, and support may include assessment of 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.


Please note that WWF does not provide VISA sponsorship to interns. 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.


Responsibilities


Research, writing & analysis on various topics which may include food and water security, foreign assistance, marine and fisheries issues, species/wildlife trafficking, climate change, and national security.




Legislative tracking and research.




Attend Congressional hearings and briefings, as well as NGO coalition meetings.




Outreach to Capitol Hill and the Administration on legislation and rulemaking.




Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:




Only enrolled students are eligible for this internship as you must be able to receive academic credit from your current academic institution. Able to work either part time or full time, depending on class schedule and availability.




Desired Skills and Qualities:




Undergraduate student: Must be an actively enrolled student and not received degree at time of internship start date (January 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, and U.S. State Department) and non-governmental organizations.




Excellent written and verbal communications 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 – We demonstrate courage through our actions, we work for change where it’s needed, and we inspire people and institutions to tackle the greatest threats to nature and the future of the planet, which is our home.
INTEGRITY – We live the principles we call on others to meet. We act with integrity, accountability, and transparency, and we rely on facts and science to guide us and to ensure that we learn and evolve.
RESPECT – We honor the voices and knowledge of people and communities that we serve, and we work to secure their rights to a sustainable future.
COLLABORATION – We deliver impact at the scale of the challenges we face through the power of collective action and innovation.



Compensation:


Unpaid. For all unpaid internships, applicants must be enrolled in school and be able to obtain academic course credit from their university.


Location:


Washington, DC


To Apply:




Submit cover letter and resume through our Careers Page*, Requisition #**IN-26010




Due to the high volume of applications, we are not able to respond to inquiries via phone




World Wildlife Fund (WWF) promotes equal employment opportunities for all qualified individuals regardless of age, race, color, sex, religion, national origin, disability, or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected under applicable law.