Internship - Wildlife Coexistence Campaign - Summer 2020

Position: Wildlife Coexistence Campaign Intern

Location: Washington, D.C.

Application deadline: Applications will be considered on a rolling basis through February 28, 2020. Candidates are encouraged to apply early.

Term: Twelve weeks with a possibility of extension. Summer internships will begin in May or June, depending upon candidates' academic schedules.

Eligibility: Undergraduate (3+ years completed); recent college graduate (BS or BA); advanced degree candidates/recipients.

Compensation: Internships are categorized as unpaid, but interns may receive either academic credit or a stipend ($1,000/month for 40 hrs/week) to cover limited expenses related to the position, as well as public transportation costs.

About us: IFAW was founded in 1969 and its driving mission is to save individual animals, animal populations and habitats all over the world. With projects in more than 40 countries, IFAW provides hands-on assistance to animals in need, whether dogs and cats, wildlife and livestock, or animals affected by natural disasters.

Internship overview: The International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) is seeking a coexistence campaign intern with an exceptional academic record and commitment to wildlife conservation. The coexistence campaign intern will be helping to advance IFAWs campaign to reduce inhumane and unnecessary killing of coyotes and other wildlife species that inhabit human-dominated landscapes. The intern will, under the direction of IFAW staff, conduct research on a number of topics related to coyote and human interaction and conservation in the eastern U.S.

The successful candidate will be responsible for assignments including but not limited to: performing a variety of research tasks (including legal, political, scientific matters); conducting media searches; evaluating local, state and federal government policies and practices; monitoring news and events relevant to the organization’s work; drafting letters, fact sheets, op-eds and other informational materials; engaging in grassroots outreach; reviewing federal, state and local policy proposals; contacting and working with congressional staff and regulatory agencies; and otherwise supporting IFAW’s campaigns and mission. 

Schedule: Start and end dates for the internship are somewhat flexible. The coexistence campaign internship for summer 2020 will begin in May or June, with a preferred commitment of at least ten weeks and 20-40 hours per week. 

Qualifications: Ideal candidates have an interest in wildlife policy and animal protection (though prior experience is not necessary), and a willingness to learn about how they can make a difference for animals through education, outreach, and policy. This is an excellent opportunity for individuals interested in conservation, government relations, and working at the interface of public policy and science.

Candidates must meet the following requirements to be eligible for the internship:

·        A great attitude and strong commitment to protecting wildlife and advancing animal welfare policies and practices (this is most important!);

·        Excellent verbal and written communication skills;

·        Ability to work independently as well as in a team;

·        Ability to manage and prioritize multiple tasks and shifting priorities;

·        Completion of at least three years of undergraduate education; 

·        Familiarity and experience with Microsoft Office programs including Word, Excel and PowerPoint; and

·        Availability to work in IFAW’s Washington, D.C. office (20+ hours per week) during the internship term.

In addition to the requirements listed above, ideal candidates will have the following qualifications (preferred but not mandatory):

·        Background (educational and/or professional) in natural sciences, public policy, agriculture, or a related field;

·        Knowledge of and experience with legislative and regulatory processes; and

·        Ability to work with diverse stakeholders and partners.