Application Guide

How to Apply for Education Intern

at Center for Biological Diversity

🏢 About Center for Biological Diversity

The Center for Biological Diversity is a national nonprofit that fights to protect endangered species and wild places through science, law, and creative media. Its unique focus on linking human population growth to environmental impact makes it a standout among conservation organizations. Working here means contributing to high-impact campaigns that address the root causes of biodiversity loss.

About This Role

As an Education Intern in the Population and Sustainability program, you'll help develop educational materials and outreach strategies that connect human population trends with environmental sustainability. This role is impactful because it addresses a critical but often overlooked driver of species extinction, and your work will help engage diverse audiences in solutions.

💡 A Day in the Life

You might start by reviewing recent environmental news and updating a social media calendar with population-related content. Mid-morning, you could draft a fact sheet on the impact of urban sprawl on local species, then join a virtual meeting with the campaign team to brainstorm outreach strategies. Afternoon tasks might include researching educational resources for a new curriculum module and compiling data on population trends in a key region.

🎯 Who Center for Biological Diversity Is Looking For

  • Passionate about environmental justice and the intersection of population, consumption, and biodiversity
  • Strong written communication skills, with experience creating educational content (e.g., blog posts, fact sheets, lesson plans)
  • Ability to work independently in a remote setting, with excellent time management and self-motivation
  • Familiarity with the Center's campaigns and a commitment to its mission of protecting all species

📝 Tips for Applying to Center for Biological Diversity

1

Tailor your cover letter specifically to the Population and Sustainability program, not as a generic environmental interest

2

Highlight any coursework or volunteer work related to population dynamics, family planning, or environmental education

3

Show concrete examples of content creation, such as links to a blog, infographic, or social media campaign you've led

4

Mention your ability to work flexible hours as needed for a part-time temporary role

5

In your resume, emphasize remote collaboration skills and experience with tools like Google Workspace, Canva, or CRM software

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

['Your understanding of the link between human population growth and biodiversity loss', 'Specific experience creating educational materials that make complex topics accessible', "Why the Center's mission resonates with you personally, referencing its campaigns or successes", 'Your ability to contribute fresh ideas for engaging new audiences in sustainability education']

Generate Cover Letter →

🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • Explore the Center's Population and Sustainability program page and recent reports
  • Read about the Center's successful campaigns, like the fight to protect the Mexican gray wolf or the Endangered Species Act
  • Understand the controversy around population-focused environmentalism and the Center's stance on reproductive justice
Visit Center for Biological Diversity's Website →

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 How do you see population growth affecting endangered species in different regions?
2 Describe an educational project you've created. What was your process and what impact did it have?
3 How would you approach creating a lesson plan for high school students about sustainable consumption?
4 What do you know about the Center's work on human population and sustainability?
5 How do you stay organized and motivated while working remotely on multiple tasks?
Practice Interview Questions →

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Submitting a generic cover letter that doesn't mention population or sustainability
  • Overlooking the part-time, temporary nature and expressing a desire for full-time permanent work
  • Failing to proofread for typos or using overly formal language that doesn't match the Center's activist tone

📅 Application Timeline

This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to Center for Biological Diversity!