Operations Research Intern Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Since our founding in 1961, WWF has been committed to protecting nature and its resources. We understand that nature is our planet’s greatest asset, intrinsically linked to human survival — and that it needs our help. Our work to reverse nature loss and conserve biodiversity has never been more urgent.

As the world’s leading conservation organization—with offices on six continents and in nearly 100 countries—our global reach includes the world’s most critical forests, river systems, wetlands, savannas, and ocean habitats. By conserving these places and supporting sustainable livelihoods within them, we can keep the Earth in balance for people, wildlife, and the planet.

World Wildlife Fund (WWF), one of the world’s leading conservation organizations seeks a Prospect Research Intern, for its Prospect Intelligence and Analytics Research Team within Development.  

Position Summary

WWF seeks a Prospect Research Intern to support the Prospect Intelligence & Analytics team within its Development department. This role contributes to the preparation of briefing materials and high-priority documentation for executive-level events, conducts research to support donor prospecting and profile development, and helps maintain accurate data within internal systems. The intern will also assist with drafting and editing Development research materials while providing administrative and project support across a range of research initiatives. 

Responsibilities  

• Conduct research using publicly available sources, subscription databases, and internal WWF tools to support event briefings, donor profiles, and other prospect research projects. 

• Assist with composing, writing, editing and proofreading materials used in the cultivation of current donors and prospects. 

• Handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion, ensuring compliance with WWF data security policies and IT protocols. 

• Track information and manage digital records by inputting, updating and verifying data in an internal database.  

• Support the preparation of briefing materials and documentation for high-level events, ensuring accuracy and attention to detail. 

• Assist research staff in identifying, evaluating, and tracking prospective donors to support strategic outreach and relationship-building efforts. 

• Provide administrative and project support across the team, including special projects and time-sensitive assignments as needed. 

Learning Outcomes 

• Develop strong organizational and project coordination skills through the preparation of high-priority materials and support of executive-level events and initiatives. 

• Gain experience in prospect research and analysis by contributing to the identification, evaluation, and tracking of prospective donors and strategic connections. 

• Build professional skills in adaptability, communication, and problem-solving while supporting a range of administrative and operational functions in a fast-paced environment. 

• Access to all available WWF programming to deepen understanding of conservation priorities and expand professional networks. 

• Develop familiarity with research and data management tools, including Microsoft Office, Blackbaud CRM, SharePoint, Bloomberg, iWave, LexisNexis, Altrata, Candid and more. 

Minimum Requirements: 

• Currently pursuing either an Associate’s or Bachelor’s or Graduate Degree program in relevant fields such as corporate sustainability, business administration, natural resources, supply chain management, environmental science, environmental policy, or sustainable development. Those studying outside these areas are still highly encouraged to apply. 

• Strong analytical and research abilities 

• Attentive communication skills 

• High attention to detail and accuracy 

• Ability to stay organized and manage time effectively 

• Self-motivated with the ability to work independently and in a team setting 

• Clear and professional written and verbal communication skills 

• Can exercise discretion and handle sensitive information with confidentiality 

• Identifies and aligns with WWF’s core values: Courage, Integrity, Respect, and Collaboration: 

• Demonstrates courage by speaking up even when it is difficult, or unpopular. 

• Builds trust with colleagues by acting with integrity, owning mistakes, and holding oneself accountable. 

• Welcomes other points of view and ideas, recognizing and embracing different and contrary perspectives with kindness, curiosity, and encouragement. 

• Makes conscious efforts to promote cooperative practices, behaviors, and ways of working across many groups and individuals. 

Location: Washington, D.C., hybrid schedule of two in-office days a week.

Compensation: 

This is a part-time internship position requiring 21 hours of work per week for a duration of 6 months. The internship is paid at a rate of $20.50 per hour for current undergraduate students and $22.50 per hour for current graduate students.

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