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Wildlife Conservation Intern Jobs (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 ...

$13.50 - $18.25/hr

The Stark County Park District is currently seeking Wildlife Rehabilitation Enrichment intern to further their education and experience at our Wildlife Conservation Center. If you're passionate about ...

$13.50 - $18.25/hr

... Conservation Center. If you're passionate about wildlife animals big and small and wish to gain some hands-on experience in animal care, we're the place for you! Essential Functions: * Gain a working ...

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Wildlife Conservation Intern information

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How much do wildlife conservation intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for wildlife conservation intern in the United States is $17.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a wildlife conservation intern do?

A Wildlife Conservation Intern typically assists with the research, monitoring, and preservation of wildlife and their habitats. Duties often include collecting data in the field, assisting with habitat restoration, supporting educational outreach, and helping with administrative tasks. Interns work closely with conservation professionals to gain hands-on experience and contribute to ongoing projects. The role provides valuable insight into conservation practices and can serve as a stepping stone to a career in wildlife management or environmental science.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a wildlife conservation intern?

To thrive as a Wildlife Conservation Intern, you need a background in environmental science or biology, basic field research skills, and a passion for wildlife protection. Familiarity with data collection tools, GPS devices, and software like ArcGIS or Excel is often required. Strong communication, teamwork, and adaptability are essential soft skills for collaborating with diverse teams in challenging outdoor environments. These skills ensure effective data collection, safe fieldwork, and meaningful contributions to conservation initiatives.

What types of projects or tasks can a wildlife conservation intern expect to participate in?

As a Wildlife Conservation Intern, you can expect to be involved in a variety of fieldwork and research activities, such as monitoring animal populations, collecting ecological data, assisting with habitat restoration, and supporting community outreach programs. Interns often work closely with experienced conservationists and scientists, gaining hands-on experience in both outdoor and office settings. Collaboration with team members and local stakeholders is common, and adaptability is important, as daily tasks can change based on wildlife needs and project priorities. This role provides valuable exposure to conservation techniques and can serve as a stepping stone for careers in ecology, environmental science, or wildlife management.

What is the difference between Wildlife Conservation Intern vs Environmental Education Coordinator?

AspectWildlife Conservation InternEnvironmental Education Coordinator
Required CredentialsTypically pursuing or holding a degree in wildlife biology, ecology, or related fieldsOften requires a degree in environmental science, education, or related disciplines
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, research sites, conservation projectsClassroom settings, community outreach, program planning
Employer & Industry UsageNonprofits, research institutions, conservation agenciesEducational organizations, parks, environmental nonprofits
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level conservation rolesExploring careers in environmental education

The Wildlife Conservation Intern role focuses on hands-on fieldwork and research in conservation projects, often requiring biology or ecology backgrounds. In contrast, the Environmental Education Coordinator emphasizes developing and delivering educational programs, typically needing skills in communication and education. Both roles are vital in environmental sectors but serve different functions within conservation efforts.

More about Wildlife Conservation Intern jobs

What cities are hiring for Wildlife Conservation Intern jobs?

Cities with the most Wildlife Conservation Intern job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Wildlife Conservation jobs?

The most popular types of Wildlife Conservation jobs are:

What states have the most Wildlife Conservation Intern jobs?

States with the most job openings for Wildlife Conservation Intern jobs include:

Infographic showing various Wildlife Conservation Intern job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 22% Internship, 1% As Needed, 48% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,436 per year, or $17 per hour.

Federal Legislative Intern

Wildlife Conservation Society

Washington, DC • On-site, Remote

$17 - $22/hr

Internship

Posted 17 days 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. 


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