Intern, Federal Affairs- Regulatory - Summer 2026

Humane World Action Fund, a global leader in animal advocacy and protection, is seeking a Regulatory Affairs Intern. During this internship you will foster a deeper understanding of numerous animal protection issues, the legislative and regulatory process, and the work at the Humane World Action Fund while receiving job training and educational experience. Issues include puppy mills, horse soring, horse slaughter, exotic animals, factory farms, marine mammals, endangered and threatened wildlife, animals used in research, and non-animal research alternatives. Candidate will have the opportunity to strengthen research, data compilation, communication and networking skills. The Federal Affairs Intern will:

• Develop or strengthen animal advocacy and diplomacy skills and strategies.
• Learn how research assists policy work for animal protection issues
• Gain exposure to federal legislative and regulatory issues related to animal protection across the country
• Practice time management and organizational skills, including how to prioritize assignments and multi-task
• Gain leadership experience and learn how to become a better advocate for animals

Responsibilities:

• Research and draft briefing documents to present at meetings with agency officials, which highlight the important aspects of Humane World Action Fund issues
• Conduct legal and non-legal research
• Complete writing projects on federal regulations
• Complete miscellaneous tasks of an administrative nature, such as printing documents for meetings and assisting Regulatory Affairs staff with maintaining agency contacts list
• Attend (in person or remotely) congressional or agency meetings and hearings, and prepare reports for staff

Education and Experience:

• Must be a second- or third-year law student with superior legal research and writing skills; a background in administrative law, environmental law, or animal law is preferred
• Must be a current law student
• Must be able to learn and follow guidelines and policies of the Humane World Action Fund, and to follow directions given by staff
• Must submit the required paperwork and pass a background check before being assigned

Necessary knowledge, skills and abilities:

• Strong communication skills and fluency in English
• Strong interest in animal protection issues
• Must possess problem-solving capability, pay meticulous attention to detail, and think creatively in a solution-oriented way
• Experience with online legal research tools such as Lexis and Westlaw research systems
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel
• Must demonstrate flexibility and ability to adapt to changing priorities, willingness to take initiative on a variety of projects, and have a strong work ethic
• High level of professionalism in attitude and appearance, on the telephone and in person with staff, members of the public, congressional staff and agency officials
• Ability to use discretion, keeping in mind the confidential nature of some aspects of the work
• Ability to work independently with moderate levels of direct supervision
• Must work well as a member of a team, with a high level of accountability, integrity, and good judgment
• Ability to tactfully deal with challenging questions or opposing viewpoints
• Ability to learn, retain, and relay information relating to the organization
• Ability to inform others about the issues we work on, our positions, and our goals
• Eagerness to learn from and work closely with supervisor and Regulatory Affairs staff Restrictions

This is a full-time remote role that requires occasional in-person attendance at events in the Washington, DC area.