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Intern Conservation Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

Federal Legislative Intern

Washington, DC · On-site +1

$17 - $22/hr

The Federal Affairs office of the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) seeks motivated, enthusiastic ... The intern will gain experience in shaping environmental policy to protect wildlife and natural ...

The Corps Network seeks a Communications Intern to work a hybrid schedule for 16-20 hours per week ... Continuing the legacy of the Civilian Conservation Corpsof the 1930s, today's Corps are ...

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Intern Conservation information

What does an intern conservation do?

An Intern Conservation assists with the preservation and protection of natural resources, wildlife, and habitats. They typically support conservation projects by conducting fieldwork, collecting data, maintaining equipment, and educating the public about environmental issues. Interns may also help with administrative tasks or research to support conservation initiatives. This role is a valuable way to gain hands-on experience in environmental science and conservation practices.

What types of projects and daily tasks can I expect as an intern conservation?

As an Intern in Conservation, you can expect to work on a variety of projects such as habitat restoration, species monitoring, and environmental education initiatives. Your daily tasks might include collecting field data, assisting with research, maintaining records, and supporting outreach events. You'll often collaborate with a team of conservation professionals, volunteers, and sometimes local communities, gaining valuable hands-on experience. The role offers a dynamic work environment, with opportunities to learn both in the field and office settings.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an intern conservation, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Intern in Conservation, you typically need a background in environmental science, biology, or a related field, with strong research and data collection skills. Familiarity with GIS software, fieldwork tools, and data analysis programs is often required, along with knowledge of safety protocols. Strong communication, teamwork, and adaptability help interns collaborate with diverse teams and engage stakeholders effectively. These skills and qualities are vital for supporting conservation projects, ensuring accurate data collection, and contributing to meaningful environmental outcomes.

What is the difference between Intern Conservation vs Conservation Technician?

AspectIntern ConservationConservation Technician
Required CredentialsTypically pursuing or recently completed a degree in environmental science, biology, or related fieldUsually requires a relevant degree or equivalent experience, sometimes certifications in GIS or ecological techniques
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, supervised, often in field or office settingsFieldwork-focused, hands-on conservation projects, may involve physical labor
Employer & Industry UsageInternships offered by NGOs, government agencies, or research institutionsEmployers include conservation organizations, government agencies, and environmental firms

Intern Conservation roles are designed for students or recent graduates gaining initial experience, while Conservation Technicians are more experienced, performing technical tasks in conservation projects. Both roles support environmental efforts but differ in responsibilities and qualifications.

What are the most commonly searched types of Conservation jobs in Washington, DC?

The most popular types of Conservation jobs in Washington, DC are:

What are popular job titles related to Intern Conservation jobs in Washington, DC?

For Intern Conservation jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Intern Conservation jobs in Washington, DC look for?

The top searched job categories for Intern Conservation jobs in Washington, DC are:

Federal Legislative Intern

Wildlife Conservation Society

Washington, DC • On-site, Remote

$17 - $22/hr

Internship

Re-posted 10 hours ago


Wildlife Conservation Society rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 37 rated wildlife parks and zoos


Job description

Department:Public Affairs 
Title:Federal Legislative Intern 
Dates:September to December 2026, with flexible start and end dates to accommodate academic schedules
Number of Openings: 2 - 3 
Location:Options for remote or hybrid schedules 
Hours: 14-30 hours per week, with flexibility to accommodate class schedules
Position Summary: 
The Federal Affairs office of the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) seeks motivated, enthusiastic, and detail-oriented Federal Affairs interns. This internship is designed to provide experience in legislative and governmental affairs, policy, and the Congressional appropriations process. The intern will gain experience in shaping environmental policy to protect wildlife and natural resources on a global scale while learning about the legislative process first-hand. Possible topics for projects include nature-based solutions to climate change, combating wildlife trafficking, and federal funding for international conservation, ocean conservation, and endangered species conservation. This internship is unpaid but will provide academic credit if applicable. Interns will have the option of remote or hybrid schedules. 
WCS combines the power of its zoos and an aquarium in New York City and a Global Conservation Program in more than 50 countries to achieve its mission to save wildlife and wild places. WCS runs the world's largest conservation field program, protecting more than 50 percent of Earth's known biodiversity; in partnership with governments, Indigenous People, Local Communities, and the private sector. Its four zoos and aquarium (the Bronx Zoo, Central Park Zoo, Queens Zoo, Prospect Park Zoo, and the New York Aquarium) welcome more than 3.5 million visitors each year, inspiring generations to care for nature. WCS's Federal Affairs office is an interface between our conservation experts and policy decision-makers in Washington, D.C. 
Objectives: 

  • Help track developments in Congress and relevant Federal Agencies related to wildlife conservation, natural resources management, and foreign policy. 

  • Learn to identify potential Congressional allies and environmental policy priorities. 

  • Research and analyze legislation related to wildlife conservation, natural resources management, and foreign policy. 

  • Have the opportunity to attend virtual Capitol Hill related briefings, hearings, and events. 

  • Learn about and gain experience in developing and implementing Congressional engagement strategies, working in coalitions, and the federal budget and appropriations process. 


What Wildlife Conservation Society employees say

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