Communications & Marketing Intern

City of Terre Haute Internship Program

Position: Communications & Marketing Intern

Department: Information Technology               

Reports to: Eve Friedman-Dekro, Citizen Engagement & Communications Administrator

Position Summary: The Communications and Marketing Intern supports the City of Terre Haute’s communications and citizen engagement efforts by helping plan, create, and publish timely, accurate, and resident-friendly content across the City’s communication channels. This internship provides hands-on experience in .municipal public information, digital content creation, and campaign development while working closely with the City’s communications team to highlight City services, projects, programs, and community updates.

Duties will include (but are not limited to the following):

• Coordinate and schedule posts for the City of Terre Haute social media platforms in alignment with weekly priorities and City messaging.
• Draft press releases and assist with content preparation for media distribution.
• Support development of the Mayor’s Monthly Newsletter, including drafting copy, collecting updates, and preparing content for publication.
• Create and help execute a social media campaign to address a community knowledge gap by developing clear, helpful educational content.
• Take photos at City locations, events, and project sites for use on social media and other communication materials.
• Create social media graphics that follow City branding and improve clarity and engagement.

Minimum Requirements (Qualifications) 

• Currently enrolled in, or recently graduated from, an accredited college or university program in communications, marketing, public relations, journalism, graphic design, or a related field
• Demonstrated strong writing and editing skills, with the ability to produce clear, concise, citizen-friendly content
• Ability to create basic social media graphics using Canva or Adobe (Photoshop and or Illustrator)
• Ability to take and edit photos for digital use (smartphone or camera)
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, including the ability to manage multiple deadlines
• Professional communication skills and ability to collaborate with City staff and departments
• Availability to work a set weekly schedule, with occasional evening or weekend availability for meetings or events as needed
• Ability to follow City branding, confidentiality expectations, and professional standards for public-facing communications

Preferred Skills 

• Strong eye for graphic design, including typography, layout, color, and visual hierarchy
• Proficiency in Canva, including template creation and adapting designs for multiple platforms
• Experience with Adobe Creative Suite, especially Photoshop and Illustrator 
• Familiarity with social media best practices for government or public information, including platform-appropriate formatting
• Experience drafting press releases or media advisories
• Experience building a simple social media campaign, including goals, audience, key messages, and a content series
• Basic understanding of accessibility best practices for digital content, including alt text, contrast, and captioning
• Familiarity with using a content calendar or social scheduling tools (for example, Buffer, Meta Business Suite, Hootsuite, Sprout, or similar)

Work Schedule and Location

• Hours: Part-Time $12.50/hr - 25 hours/week between 8:00 am and 4:00 pm 
• 12 week program
• Monday -Friday. Weekly schedule set in advance.
  • Occasional evening or weekend availability may be required for meetings, events, or community engagements
• Work location: City of Terre Haute City Hall, with on-site work required; some duties occur in the field at events and meetings

Interns are not eligible for City benefits. All selected candidates must complete a pre-employment drug screening and background check prior to starting work.

About the City’s Local Government: The City of Terre Haute operates under a Mayor-Council form of government. The Mayor serves as the City’s chief administrative officer and is responsible for overseeing daily operations and implementing City priorities. City services are delivered through a range of departments led by department heads and professional staff who manage core functions such as public safety, public works and infrastructure, parks and recreation, community development, and administrative services. The City Council serves as the legislative body, establishing local laws and policy and adopting the City’s budget. The City works in coordination with Vigo County and other community partners to support efficient service delivery and meet the needs of residents.

Application Process: To apply for this position, complete an application on Handshake. If you have questions about the positions, email Eve.Friedman-Dekro@TerreHaute.IN.Gov.  Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis.