Conservation Futures Intern (Summer 2026)

Conservation International protects nature for the benefit of humanity. Through science, policy, fieldwork, and finance, we spotlight and secure the most important places in nature for the climate, biodiversity, and for people. With offices in 30 countries and projects in more than 100 countries, Conservation International partners with governments, companies, civil society, Indigenous peoples, and local communities to help people and nature thrive together.

POSITION SUMMARY - This position is based in Kenya

Conservation International (CI) is partnering with Arizona State University through the School of Conservation Futures (SCF), is recruiting up to two interns for a Summer 2026 field-based internship program in Kenya. Interns will be placed in small cohorts, working together while being embedded within CI landscape teams and local partner organizations.

This immersive experience is designed for students interested in applied conservation practice, community engagement, and working in complex social-ecological systems. Interns will support ongoing work in priority landscapes, including community-led conservation, restoration, wildlife monitoring, conservation agreements, and sustainable livelihood activities.

Interns will learn as part of a cohort, benefit from on-site mentorship, and participate in shared learning and reflection across sites. Successful candidates will demonstrate curiosity, adaptability, cultural competence, and a strong interest in conservation practice. This role is well sutied for students who are comfortable working in rural and remote environments, collaborating across cultures, and contributing meaningfully to landscape-scale conservation efforts.

As part of the internship experience, interns will participate in a series of online courses offered through Arizona State University, designed to prepare them for field-based conservation work and deepen their understanding of place-based practice. These courses are covered by the program and will be completed alongside field placement. Interns who successfully complete the coursework and internship will receive a certificate from Arizona State University, recognizing their applied learning and professional preparation.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Intern responsibilities will vary by site and program needs but may include the following:

Conservation Field Support

Support day-to-day conservation activities alongside site teams, including land and wildlife management, restoration, and community-led initiatives.
Assist with restoring degraded areas through activities such as planting, rangeland restoration interventions, site assessments, and basic ecological monitoring.
Participate in wildlife and habitat observation, tracking, and data collection under the guidance of experienced staff.
Support work with local landowners, community groups, livestock owners or partners to develop shared approaches to protecting nature. while supporting local livelihoods and small enterprises.

Community Engagement and Learning

Engage respectfully with local and Indigenous communities, leaders, and partners, following local protocols and guidance from site teams.
Support community meetings, workshops, trainings, and outreach activities, including preparation, note-taking, and follow-up.
Learn from and help document how conservation work connects to local priorities, knowledge, and well-being.

Research, Innovation, Communication, and Documentation

Assist with basic data collection, organization, and synthesis.
Help capture stories that highlight community perspectives, local leadership, and the realities of day-to-day conservation work, using photos, short written reflections, or other agreed formats.
Contribute to learning products such as site summaries, presentations, or end-of-internship reflections that share insights and lessons learned.
Work with staff and community leaders to support the development and application of innovative ideas that improve positive outcomes for both people and nature.

Professional Development and Cohort Learning

Participate in regular check-ins with assigned mentors and supervisors to receive guidance and feedback.
Engage actively in cohort learning activities and structured reflection.
Build skills in working in field-based, cross-cultural environments while reflecting on personal and professional growth.

Other duties as assigned by site supervisors or program leadership.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Internship period: May 25—August 14, 2026 (exact dates may vary by site).
Based in Kenya, with most work taking place in rural or remote areas.
Significant time spent outdoors and in community settings.
Living and working conditions may be basic and require flexibility and resilience.
Some local travel within the project area may be required.
Work hours may vary depending on field activities and community schedules.

Compensation and Program Support

This is a paid, full-time internship. For interns traveling from outside their home country, CI will cover round-trip airfare. Local interns will receive support for in-country travel to the placement site where required. Additional details will be provided upon selection.

QUALIFICATIONS

Required

Currently enrolled at Arizona State University.
Academic background or strong interest in conservation, environmental studies, community development, or related fields.
Clear interest in learning how conservation works in real-world settings.
Willingness and ability to live and work in rural or remote environments.
Respect for different cultures, traditions, and ways of life.
Strong teamwork and communication skills.
Flexibility, initiative, and a positive attitude in unfamiliar or challenging settings.

Preferred

Prior experience in fieldwork, community engagement, or volunteer work.
Backgrounds in ecology, natural resource management, business, marketing, communications, or storytelling.
Familiarity with East or Southern African cultures and other contexts, or lived experience in the region.
Interest in wildlife, habitat restoration, community livelihoods, or human-wildlife relationships.
Passion for people – dedicated to working with people to improve livelihoods and well-being, while advancing positive outcomes for nature.

To apply for this position, please submit a resume and cover letter.

See all Conservation International Career Opportunities HERE

Conservation International is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all individuals. We believe in hiring based on merit and qualifications, ensuring a fair and inclusive hiring process for everyone.