Blog Writing Intern Fall 2026

Project Chimps is seeking a passionate and creative Blog Writing Intern to help share the stories of the former research chimpanzees living at our sanctuary and support our mission to provide exemplary care to chimpanzees in need while educating and inspiring humanity. 

This remote internship is an excellent opportunity for students and aspiring writers interested in nonprofit communications, animal welfare, conservation, storytelling, and digital marketing.

Focus of the Internship:

The Blog Writing Intern will create engaging online blog content focused on chimpanzees, sanctuary life, and the ongoing work of the sanctuary. Topics may include the chimpanzees’ daily lives, friendships and social dynamics, behavioral observations, enrichment activities, recent sanctuary developments, and other topics related to the sanctuary itself.

Some blog topics will be assigned, while interns will also have the opportunity to pitch and develop their own story ideas related to chimpanzees, sanctuary care, animal welfare, conservation, or related themes. During the internship, the intern will gain valuable experience in blog writing, interviewing and research techniques, and SEO.

Learning Opportunities:

• Hands-on experience in nonprofit communications and digital storytelling
• Insight into chimpanzee behavior, sanctuary operations, and animal welfare work
• Experience with blog writing, interviewing, digital research, and online content creation
• Exposure to SEO techniques and audience engagement strategies
• Opportunities to build a professional writing portfolio
• The opportunity to support a nonprofit dedicated to providing lifelong sanctuary for former research chimpanzees

Intern Responsibilities Include:

• Work under the supervision of the Communications Coordinator to write and develop engaging stories for online blogs supporting the mission of Project Chimps
• Produce compelling, original, and platform-appropriate digital content
• Interview sanctuary staff, volunteers, or caregivers when needed
• Conduct background research on chimpanzees and sanctuary-related topics
• Gather and properly cite digital media assets including photos and videos, if taking photos on site do so under the supervision and with approval of Marketing staff and Chimpanzee Caregiver Supervisors
• Attend and participate in weekly virtual meetings
• Learn and apply basic SEO (Search Engine Optimization) best practices
• Edit and revise content based on feedback
• Help communicate the mission of the sanctuary to supporters and the public

Qualifications/Requirements for Intern Applicants:

• Must be at least 18 years old
• Able to meet the requirements outlined in the Essential Capabilities document with or without reasonable accommodation
• Ability to work independently and meet deadlines
• Access to a reliable internet connection and computer
• Pursuing a degree in Communications, Marketing, or related field
• Excellent writing and communication skills
• Maturity and judgement for online dialogue and engagement
• Interest in animal welfare, conservation, primates, or nonprofit work
• Passion for both animals and storytelling
• Proficiency with Microsoft Word and OneDrive
• Familiarity with blogging or SEO is helpful but not required
• Nonprofit and community service experience preferred

Level of Difficulty:

1=easy/5=demanding

(physical, mental, emotional)

• Physical difficulty is Level 1; most of the work occurs in an office setting
• Mental difficulty is Level 4; requires learning procedures and protocols; independent project work requires critical thinking and problem solving skills
• Emotional difficulty is Level 2; intern will be writing about chimpanzees that are retired from biomedical research

Orientation/Training:

• Orientation will be scheduled the first day of the internship and includes the following: history and virtual tour of Project Chimps, description of rules, chimpanzee behavior, and chimpanzee care protocols.
• Intern will be given a manual and will be trained on the particular aspects of their role.
• Intern will receive online training via CollaborNation. Once an intern finishes the required courses, they retain access to the full library of online courses.

Restrictions:

• Must arrive on time and well-prepared for virtual meetings
• Must learn and follow all guidelines and policies of Project Chimps and follow directions given by staff.
• Candidates must submit the required paperwork and pass a background check before being assigned. Copies of any academic requirements should also be submitted. International interns are solely responsible for obtaining any required visas.
• Should have access to a computer and internet and ability to login into an online volunteer communication site to receive updates

Internship Format:

This internship is fully remote and can be completed from anywhere with internet access and a computer. Scheduling is flexible based on availability and internship requirements. 

Internship Start Date and Time Commitment:

Our internships are seasonal. We have flexible start dates so we can work with your school schedule (if applicable).

Standard time commitment is 20 hours per week for a minimum of 12 weeks, flexible upon request

Additional Information:

• This is an unpaid position. On-site housing may be available for interns committing to at least 32 hours per week and will be discussed after receipt of the initial application; please note your interest in housing accommodations in your cover letter. Housing is co-ed, and has two bedrooms, kitchen, living room, and is equipped with internet. Food must be provided by the intern if staying on-site. Parking is available for interns with vehicles. The property and house are non-smoking. Staff or volunteers will provide interns with weekly trips into town for grocery shopping.
• Interns will have no physical contact with the chimpanzees.

Number of Concurrent Internship Openings

1