WWF Forests and Trade Internship

World Wildlife Fund

Position Description: Intern, North American Forest & Trade Network

Position Title: Intern, Global Forest Program
Reports To: NAFTN Manager/Regional Coordinator, Global Forest Program
Location: Washington, DC
Date: September 2005

I. Major Function:

Serves as member of the Global Forest Program (GFP) team. Responsibilities include assisting the North American Forest & Trade Network (NA-FTN) Manager/Coordinator and other GFP staff with research, analysis, synthesis and writing about scientific and policy issues related to achieving the GFPs NA-FTN work program. Position requires initiative, background on international environmental issues, strong analytical and writing skills, and strong computer and internet skills.

II. Major Duties and Responsibilities:

1. Undertakes research and writing tasks such as identifying and synthesizing key issues; locating and analyzing key references; writing syntheses of commissioned research reports; generating project descriptions, progress reports and final outcomes; compiling and synthesizing information as inputs to progress reports, funding proposals and donor reports; and responding to general information requests from both internal and external sources.

2. Collects and synthesizes information relevant to forest management and the international forest products trade for dissemination to NA-FTN company participants. Specifically, synthesize research and draft briefs for publication on the US import of forest products from valuable and threatened forests in Russia and from Latin America.

3. Assists in organizing meetings and workshops including event planning and scheduling; preparation of materials; power point presentations; arranging meeting facilities; and meeting other logistical needs. Attends sessions and takes notes for minutes and other reports.
   

Performs other duties as assigned by the NA-FTN Manager/Coordinator.

III. Working Relationships:

1. Internal: Interacts daily with the NA-FTN Manager, Regional Coordinator, and other Global Forest Program and WWF-US staff. Daily interaction will also be frequent with the following outside of WWF-US: Global Forest & Trade Network, WWF-International, WWF NO and PO where the GFP is active.

2. External: Interacts on an occassional basis with the private sector, U.S. government agencies, various non-governmental organizations, and academics.

IV. Minimum Work Requirements:

1. Knowledge:

Knowledge of forest management issues from a scientific and policy perspective preferable, particularly with regard to the forest products trade and related environment, social and economic issues preferred.

2. Skills and Abilities:

The individual must be capable of effectively prioritizing and executing a number of activities at once, with minimal supervision. Ability to quickly research, assimilate and synthesize complex issues into the essential points for the preparation of briefs, newsletters and the documentation of workshops/meetings is essential. Very strong written and editorial skills are a must. Strong organizational, oral communication and interpersonal skills are a must. Demonstrated competence required in word processing (MSWord), MS PowerPoint presentations, and internet-based research.

3. Language:

Fluency in written and spoken English required. Ability to communicate orally in a second language desirable but not necessary.

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If interested, send cover letter and resume to: jennifer.biringer@wwfus.org