ICCF Africa & International Programs Intern

The Africa & International Programs Intern will support ICCF’s international team—particularly the Africa Programs portfolio—in advancing policy initiatives, country partnerships, and on-the-ground conservation programs. Reporting to the Deputy Director of Africa Programs, the intern will assist with research, communications, and coordination across ICCF’s global network of partners and field offices.

This internship is a 12 to 14-week-long, unpaid program for college juniors, seniors, and recent graduates and offers an exceptional opportunity to gain hands-on experience in international conservation policy, program management, and sustainable development.

Key Responsibilities

• Program Research: Conduct background research on African and other international conservation initiatives, government partnerships, and private sector engagement opportunities.
• Policy Support: Draft briefs and memos on international environmental policies, bilateral conservation efforts, and development programs relevant to ICCF’s mission.
• Monitoring & Reporting: Assist in tracking the progress of ICCF-supported programs and initiatives across Africa and other regions.
• Communications & Coordination: Support correspondence with in-country partners, government ministries, and international stakeholders; prepare talking points and background materials for meetings.
• Event Support: Help organize and coordinate ICCF events, briefings, and roundtables related to international conservation efforts.
• Content Development: Contribute to reports, newsletters, and digital materials highlighting ICCF’s global impact and partnerships.

Qualifications

• Availability to commit to 20 hours per week.
• Strong academic or professional interest in international development, environmental policy, or African affairs.
• Excellent research, writing, and cross-cultural communication skills.
• Familiarity with major international conservation and development institutions (e.g., USAID, World Bank, UNEP, African Union) is preferred.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and comfort with digital collaboration tools.
• Enrollment in or recent completion of an undergraduate or graduate program in international relations, environmental studies, political science, or a related field preferred, though not required.
• French or Portuguese language skills are a plus, though not required.

Benefits

• Exposure to international conservation policy and program development.
• Opportunities to engage with policymakers, corporate leaders, and conservation organizations across Africa and beyond.
• Mentorship and guidance from ICCF’s Africa Programs leadership team.
• Academic credit available if approved by your institution.

About The ICCF Group

ICCF Group is a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit educational foundation located in Washington, D.C., which acts as secretariat to the leadership of the bipartisan U.S. Congressional International Conservation Caucus, as well as other conservation caucuses internationally. The ICCF Group’s mission is to advance conservation governance by building political will, providing on-the-ground solutions.

To Apply: 

Submit resume and cover letter to Mikayla Shaffer at mshaffer@internationalconservation.org. Applicants must include a cover letter with their resume. Resumes without a cover letter will not be considered.