Policy Intern at Oceana in Washington, DC, USA, Washington, DC

The policy intern works closely with Oceana’s federal policy team in support of Oceana’s U.S. campaigns. The intern assists our advocacy and government relations activities to end offshore oil drilling, reduce plastic pollution, protect whales and other marine mammals, promote responsible fisheries management, deter illegal fishing through transparency, and defend bedrock environmental laws.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities

Essential Functions:

• Track and attend relevant congressional hearings and markups
• Track legislation of interest to Oceana
• Assist Oceana with outreach to Congress, Administration officials, and stakeholders including drafting correspondence, scheduling and tracking meetings, and delivering materials
• Conduct research and write policy memos
• Maintain Oceana’s database of official correspondence and public comments
• Assist in organizing Capitol Hill briefings, lobby days, and fly-ins
• Prepare and compile materials to assist the policy team
• Assist policy team members with NGO coalition management
• Other duties as needed by the policy team

Job Requirements

Education and work experience:

• Bachelor’s degree; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Experience in government or advocacy (volunteer or paid) preferred

Skills and knowledge:

• Strong interest in Congress, politics, and the policy-making process
• Knowledge and interest in ocean and other conservation issues
• Excellent research, writing, and communication skills
• Excellent attention to detail
• Good computer skills
• Ability to work effectively in a team
• Energy, enthusiasm, and a strong desire to learn
• Ability to work independently on discrete projects
• Commitment to equity and inclusion within ocean policy

Required competencies

• Action oriented: Takes on new opportunities and tough challenges with a sense of urgency, high energy, and enthusiasm.
• Instills trust: gains the confidence and trust of others through honesty, integrity, and authenticity.
• Collaborates: Brings people together to leverage their skills, talents, and knowledge to achieve a common purpose.
• Communicates effectively: Understands the value of effective communication.
• Ensures Accountability: Follows through on commitments and makes sure others do the same.

The salary range for this internship opportunity is $18.50 - $22.50 per hour.

Oceana values a diverse workforce and welcomes people different from each other in many ways, including characteristics such as race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, ethnicity, and national origin. Oceana considers all qualified candidates and seeks to recruit from a diverse candidate pool.

Oceana's US offices are operating on a hybrid schedule and staff are required to work from their assigned office on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. With agreement between the employee and their supervisor, the employee may work from home on Monday and Friday.

Please apply by September 18, 2026. Candidates must submit their resume and cover letter to be considered.