Exceptional paid internship opportunities at one of the world’s leading philanthropic organizations are now open! The Rockefeller Foundation is recruiting for multiple paid summer and general internship positions at its headquarters in New York City, USA. These roles offer hands-on experience in tackling global challenges like climate change, health equity, and food security. If you are a student or recent graduate passionate about driving social impact, this is a premier opportunity to launch your career. Positions are open now and may close once filled, so apply early.
Rockefeller Foundation Internships 2026 – Key Details
Here’s a quick overview of these competitive professional opportunities:
- Host Organization: The Rockefeller Foundation
- Internship Location: New York, NY, United States (On-site/Hybrid)
- Program Type: Paid Professional Internship
- Compensation: $30.00 – $35.00 per hour (eligible for overtime pay)
- Duration: Varies by role (Summer and general internships available)
- Target Group: Undergraduate & Postgraduate Students, Recent Graduates
- Application Status: Open Now – Apply promptly as positions fill quickly.
About the Paid Rockefeller Foundation Internships
Interning at the Rockefeller Foundation means working at the intersection of philanthropy, policy, and global development. For over a century, the Foundation has been dedicated to promoting the well-being of humanity worldwide. As an intern, you will be integrated into teams working on pioneering initiatives to build a more equitable, sustainable, and resilient future.
This is a professional, paid work experience designed to provide substantive contributions. Interns gain exposure to high-level program design, strategic operations, and policy engagement, offering an unparalleled learning environment within a globally respected institution.
Available Internship Positions
The Foundation is hiring across various departments. Key open roles include:
Programme and Policy:
- Intern, Food Initiative
- Summer Intern, Power
- Intern, Health Initiative
- Summer Intern, US Program and Policy
Strategy, Learning, and Impact:
- Summer Intern, Knowledge Management
- Intern, Strategic Learning and Impact
- Intern, Communities, Partners, and Impact
Operations, Governance, and Leadership:
- Summer Intern, President’s Office
- Intern, Investments Office
- Intern, Sustainable Operations
Legal, Communications, and Institutional Support:
- Summer Intern, Legal
- Summer Intern, Communications
Internship Benefits & Professional Gains
Selected interns will receive:
- Competitive Compensation: An hourly wage of $30 to $35, classified as a non-exempt position eligible for overtime pay.
- Meaningful Work: Contribute directly to initiatives advancing equity, sustainability, and inclusive growth.
- Expert Mentorship: Learn from and work alongside experienced leaders in global development and philanthropy.
- Career Development: Gain strong preparation for future careers in international development, public policy, social impact, and related fields.
- Professional Network: Build connections within a premier philanthropic institution.
Who Should Apply?
These internships are ideal for:
- Current students (undergraduate or postgraduate) and recent graduates.
- Early-career professionals seeking substantive internship experience in the U.S.
- Individuals with academic backgrounds or strong interests in public policy, law, economics, health, climate, communications, food systems, or impact investing.
- Candidates who are proactive, eager to learn, and passionate about social and global issues.
How to Apply for the Internships (Step-by-Step)
Applications are submitted exclusively through the Foundation’s careers portal.
- Visit the Official Portal: Go to the Rockefeller Foundation Careers website.
- Browse Open Positions: Use filters or search for “Intern” or “Summer Intern” to view all current openings in New York.
- Select a Role: Carefully review the job description, requirements, and responsibilities for the position that best matches your skills and interests.
- Prepare Your Application: Tailor your resume and cover letter to the specific role, highlighting relevant coursework, projects, and passion for the Foundation’s mission.
- Submit Online: Complete the online application form and upload your documents.
🔥 Pro Tip: Given the competitive pay and prestige, applying as soon as possible is crucial. Roles are filled on a rolling basis. In your application, clearly articulate not just your qualifications, but also your specific interest in the Rockefeller Foundation’s work and how it aligns with your career goals in social impact.
Application Deadline
- Important: These positions were posted recently and do not have a single published deadline.
- Action: The Foundation advises that roles may close once a suitable candidate is found. Therefore, you should apply immediately to ensure your application is considered.
Official Website
To browse all current openings and start your application, visit the official careers site.
👉 CLICK HERE TO VISIT THE OFFICIAL ROCKEFELLER FOUNDATION CAREERS PORTAL
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What is the hourly pay for these internships?
A: The hiring range is $30.00 to $35.00 per hour, with actual pay depending on the specific role and the candidate’s experience. These are non-exempt positions, making interns eligible for overtime pay.
Q2: Are these internships only for summer?
A: No. The list includes both dedicated “Summer Intern” roles and general “Intern” positions, which may have different start dates and durations. Check each job description for details.
Q3: Do I need to be a U.S. citizen or student to apply?
A: The job posting does not specify citizenship requirements. However, as the positions are based in New York, applicants must likely have the legal right to work in the United States for the duration of the internship (e.g., through citizenship, permanent residency, or an appropriate student/work visa). Check the specific job description for details.
Q4: Are the internships remote or in-person?
A: The roles are based in New York, NY. The description notes that “some roles may offer hybrid or on-site working arrangements,” meaning most will require in-person presence at the headquarters for at least part of the week.
Q5: How can I make my application stand out?
A: Beyond strong academics, highlight any relevant project work, research, or volunteer experience related to the Foundation’s focus areas (climate, health, food, equity). A tailored cover letter that demonstrates you’ve researched the Foundation’s specific initiatives and explains why their mission resonates with you is essential.
