Communications Intern

• Currently enrolled in or recently completed a bachelor’s or associate’s degree or certificate in journalism, communication, public relations, advertising, digital media, graphic design, English, or related field. 
• An equivalent combination of education, experience, and training may be considered.
• Demonstrated strong written and verbal communication skills. 
• Demonstrated experience with Microsoft Office Suite.
• Demonstrated experience with social media platforms and tools.
• Knowledge of the principles and practices of communication, public relations, marketing, graphic design, and social media marketing.   
• Demonstrated attention to detail. 
• Valid driver’s license or ability to obtain one within 30 days of hire.
• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States; this position does not support visa sponsorship. 

• Demonstrated experience with of graphic design, video editing, social media management tools and graphic design tools (Canva, Adobe Creative Suites, Hootsuite, Meta Business Suite, etc.).
• Working knowledge of AP style of writing
• Prior experience in communication, digital marketing, graphic design, journalism, public relations, or related experience

• Comprehensive Communication Strategies
  • Help develop, design and implement effective communication strategies to promote, educate and broaden the public’s awareness of initiatives, programs, events, and accomplishments, primarily in the Parks, Recreation and Forestry Department.
  • Work cooperatively and collaboratively with the Parks, Recreation and Forestry Department to identify and develop project goals and communication needs.
  • Ensure communication is consistent with the City’s various strategic plans; brand identity; and mission, vision and values.
• Content Creation
  • Research, write, edit, and proofread engaging and informative content for marketing and educational materials, social media posts, press releases, brochures, website, presentations, reports, and more. Completed products must meet organization’s standards for writing, style, punctuation, and grammar.
  • Create content for and help maintain City website and multimedia platforms.
  • Research and develop educational plans and outreach materials.
• Graphic Design and Branding
  • Design and create libraries of engaging visual assets for branding, marketing, communications, and other needs across multimedia platforms. Ensure consistent alignment with City’s brand guidelines.
• Digital Marketing
  • Create, schedule and manage digital marketing campaigns. Use analytical tools to track performance and optimize campaigns for maximum reach and engagement.
• Video and Photography
  • Shoot, produce, edit, and publish videos for various communication platforms, including social media, website, YouTube, and presentations.
  • Take and edit photos to use across multimedia platforms.
• Outreach and Engagement
  • Help plan and coordinate community outreach and public engagement efforts, including special events, educational meetings and informational booths and displays.
  • Evaluate effectiveness of communication activities and make recommendations for continuous improvement.
  • Attend events, public meetings, staff meetings, and other meetings as directed.

• Attend training, seminars and workshops as deemed necessary.
• Perform all duties in compliance with safety standards and policies established by the City.
• Perform other job-related duties as deemed necessary and additional duties, tasks, or responsibilities as assigned.

• Physical Demands
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear.
  • The employee is frequently required to sit and use hands to finger, handle or feel.
  • The employee is occasionally required to stand; walk, reach with hands and arms; and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.
  • The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 15 pounds.
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, peripheral vision, and ability to adjust focus.
• Work Environment
  • The work environment is typical of an office setting
  • Occasional outdoor work may be required.
  • Occasional hybrid work may be considered.
• Typical Work Hours
  • General business hours Monday through Friday.
  • May be required to work occasional extended shifts, evenings, and weekends.
  • Maintain regular and reliable attendance during assigned work hours.

Mental Complexity/Interpersonal Contacts (Essential Function)

• Work with a wide range of internal and external stakeholders including (but not limited to):
• City staff and City Council
• Community members
• Media contacts, service providers, and consultants 
• Must be able to:
• Work independently and as part of a collaborative team in an active, dynamic environment that requires flexibility
• Take direction and accept feedback
• Organize and prioritize work and changing priorities in an efficient and effective manner while maintaining attention to details, quality and deadlines
• Learn and adapt to new technologies and responsibilities
• Organize, implement, promote, and evaluate programs, events, and projects
• Gather and analyze data, draw conclusions, and present data and other information in a clear and logical manner
• Provide exceptional customer service to all stakeholders 
• Possess a high level of professional integrity, use discretion, and maintain confidentiality

• Pre-employment screening may include, but are not limited to, the following:  references, criminal background, credit history, drug and alcohol screening, medical history questionnaire, and pre-employment physical.