Careers
Join Us in Building a Better Future
The world is at a turning point. Inequality, environmental degradation, and climate impacts are affecting lives everywhere. At World Resources Institute, we work to turn that tide. Our mission is to help create a better future where people can meet their needs, nature thrives, and the climate is stable.
How do we do it? We bring together trusted research with local partners to develop practical solutions. Then we help the best ideas spread — from communities, to countries, to the global stage.
Joining WRI means putting your talent to work on issues that matter — resilient communities, clean energy, sustainable cities and food systems, healthy forests and vibrant oceans. Here, your skills and ideas can help drive solutions that change systems, shift policies, and improve lives at scale.
Our 2,000+ staff work in over a dozen countries across Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin America, and North America. They include researchers, economists, communicators, data scientists, project managers, and operations professionals. Different skills, one shared purpose: turning knowledge into action that makes a measurable difference.
What’s It Like Working at WRI?
- Global reach, local action: With offices around the world, you’ll help bring international expertise to local challenges — and local solutions to the global stage.
- Collaboration at scale: Work across disciplines and borders, partnering with colleagues and organizations worldwide to tackle complex problems together.
- Real-world impact: See the results of your work in stronger communities, healthier ecosystems, and policies that make a difference.
- Learning and growth: Build your skills, take on leadership opportunities, and shape the future of sustainability while advancing your career.
- Inclusive culture: Every voice matters. You’ll be part of an environment where people feel respected, supported, and able to thrive.
Who We’re Looking For
We’re looking for people who share our values and put them into action every day:
- Impact-driven: You focus on results that create lasting, equitable change for people and the planet.
- Integrity-minded: You act with honesty, transparency, and accountability in all you do.
- Independent: You make evidence-based decisions, free from outside influence, and have the courage to speak with an impartial voice.
- Collaborative: You listen, share credit, and build solutions across cultures, disciplines, and sectors.
- Caring: You respect, support, and collaborate with others, helping create an inclusive, thriving workplace.
If this sounds like you, you’ll feel at home here.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the application process like?
You can apply online for any open role. Applications are reviewed by our recruiting and hiring team. If selected, you’ll go through one or more interviews — often with both Human Resources (HR) and technical staff — and you will be asked to complete a short exercise or writing sample.
- Does WRI offer internships and fellowships?
Yes. We regularly host interns and fellows, providing hands-on experience in research, operations, and program work. These are great entry points for students and professionals interested in sustainability.
- What benefits does WRI offer?
Benefits vary by office and country, but typically include health coverage, retirement or pension plans, paid leave, and flexible work arrangements. Our focus is on supporting both professional success and personal well-being.
- Do I need to already be an expert in climate or sustainability to apply?
Not always. Some roles require deep subject expertise, while others call for strong skills in areas like communications, finance, HR, data, or technology. If you are motivated by impact and aligned with our values, we encourage you to apply.
- Is WRI committed to building an inclusive workplace?
Yes. We strive to make WRI a place where people feel respected, supported, and able to succeed. We also work to ensure the solutions we advance benefit communities fairly.
- What is WRI’s remote work policy?
WRI has a flexible work policy with staff working from their local office at least 8 days per month. Occasionally roles may be designated fully remote, depending on the nature of the work and local regulations. All staff must live in a jurisdiction where WRI is legally registered.
- Can I apply to multiple positions?
Yes, we welcome your application to all positions with which your interests and qualifications align. Can I submit a general application? We encourage you to apply to specific positions that match your interests and experience. We do not accept general applications at this time.
- Can I update my information after I’ve submitted a job application?
No, you are not able to update information once your application is submitted. Please be sure that your application materials are updated and accurate prior to submission.
- How can I confirm you’ve received my application?
You will receive an application confirmation message as soon as you submit your application. If you do not receive the confirmation, please resubmit your application.
- Once I apply for a position, when should I expect to hear from WRI?
You should expect to hear from us via email if we’re interested in your application. The hiring timeline for each position varies greatly, so we’re unable to provide a specific timeline. Most full-time positions are filled within three to four months, and we notify all applicants when positions are filled.
- Will I be notified once the position is filled?
Yes, we will notify all applicants once the position is filled.
- Do you require references? If so, how many?
We will request references from you directly if you are a finalist for a position. It is not necessary to submit references with your application.
- How do I know if a position is still open?
position is still open if it appears on our careers site. We encourage you to apply at your earliest convenience.
For details on how we process your personal data, please see our privacy policy. WRI is an equal opportunity employer and are committed to promoting a diverse workplace. If you are an individual with disabilities who needs accommodation or you are having difficulty using our website to apply for employment, please contact WRI’s Human Resources department at +1 (202) 729-7851.