Community Engagement Marketing Intern

Community Engagement Marketing Intern

About Puzzled

Puzzled is more than a puzzle shop—we're a movement to reclaim the joy of real-world play in an increasingly digital world. Located in Old Town Albuquerque, our shop is a place where wonder is tangible, curiosity is encouraged, and connection happens face-to-face. We believe puzzles and games create moments of connection, sparks of curiosity, and experiences that stay with people long after they leave our shop.

Why Now? Our Community Mission

As screen time continues to dominate our lives, Puzzled stands as an antidote to digital fatigue—a place where hands-on play and face-to-face connection thrive. We're at an exciting growth point, expanding our community presence and deepening our local relationships. As we grow our community presence, we're investing in people who believe in real-world connection, curiosity, and creativity. You'll be helping us share that joy—face-to-face. This internship is an opportunity to be part of a movement that celebrates unplugged moments, thoughtful play, and the magic that happens when people connect over a shared challenge.

The Role

We're seeking a creative, hands-on Marketing Intern to help bring the Puzzled experience to life—both inside our shop and out in the community. This paid position (up to 29 hours/week) focuses on experiential marketing: creating memorable moments that invite people to discover the magic of puzzles and play.

We're hiring a connector, not just a marketer. We're looking for someone who lights up when talking to strangers, loves asking questions, and believes marketing is about human connection—not just promotion.

As our Marketing Intern, you'll collaborate with our Assistant Manager to extend Puzzled's reach beyond our shop walls through markets, festivals, social media, and community partnerships. You'll be instrumental in helping people find us, share their experiences, and return for more puzzle joy.

Who We're Looking For

You are a puzzle and game enthusiast with marketing knowledge and a passion for creating experiences. You're equally comfortable setting up an engaging booth at a local market, designing eye-catching flyers, and capturing the perfect photo or video for social media. You love connecting with people and helping them discover something meaningful.

The ideal candidate is:

• A recent or soon-to-be graduate in marketing (must have graduated/completed certificate within the past year OR be within 1 year of completing your program)
• Someone who genuinely loves puzzles and games
• Comfortable working evenings and weekends (Thursday evenings through Sunday are required)
• Able to work both in our Old Town shop and at markets/festivals around Albuquerque
• A natural storyteller who can translate the Puzzled experience into compelling content
• Tech-savvy with skills in social media, content creation, and basic analytics
• Detail-oriented with excellent organization and follow-through
• Self-motivated and able to work both independently and as part of a team
• Creative, adaptable, and enjoys the unexpected moments that come with in-person marketing

Qualifications

• Currently enrolled in OR graduated from one of the following (within the past year):
  • Marketing degree program at CNM or UNM
  • Marketing certificate program at CNM or UNM
  • UNM Continuing Education Digital Marketing Science Certificate Course
• Experience with social media content creation and management
• Basic photography/videography skills, particularly with smartphone content creation
• Proficiency in social media platforms (Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, TikTok)
• Comfortable engaging with the public in person
• Ability to work Thursday evenings through weekends
• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation to reach events around Albuquerque
• Basic design skills (for creating flyers, social posts, etc.)
• Experience with markets, festivals, or pop-up events a plus

What You'll Do

In-Person Experience Creation:

• Represent Puzzled at local markets, festivals, and community events
• Create engaging, interactive moments with potential customers at pop-ups
• Assist with in-store experiential marketing through displays and engagement strategies
• Build relationships with local teachers, therapists, artists, and aligned businesses

Digital Storytelling:

• Create engaging social media content that captures the in-store and event experience
• Develop visually appealing posts, stories, videos, and reels that highlight our products and community presence
• Manage a content calendar to ensure consistent posting
• Produce short-form video content showcasing our products, events, and behind-the-scenes moments

Community Building:

• Interact with followers, responding to comments and messages
• Collect and share customer stories and testimonials
• Track marketing effectiveness through guest counts, social engagement, and reviews
• Help develop and implement campaigns that encourage repeat visits

Marketing Strategy & Analytics:

• Collaborate with our team to develop marketing strategies that align with business goals
• Analyze social media metrics to assess campaign success and adjust strategies accordingly
• Assist in planning and promoting in-store events and promotions
• Track and report on the effectiveness of both in-person and digital marketing efforts

What You'll Walk Away With

This isn't just any internship—it's an immersive experience in experiential marketing and community building. By the end of your time with us, you'll have:

• A robust portfolio of real-world marketing campaigns and content
• Experience creating and executing in-person marketing events from concept to analysis
• Hands-on skills in community relationship building and partnership development
• Practical knowledge of how to track and measure experiential marketing effectiveness
• The ability to tell compelling stories across multiple platforms
• Advanced skills in content creation, social media management, and digital marketing
• A deeper understanding of small business growth strategies
• Valuable connections with local creators, event organizers, and community leaders
• Experience working in a values-driven business that prioritizes connection over conversion
• The satisfaction of helping build something meaningful in Albuquerque's creative economy

Hours & Location

• Up to 29 hours per week
• Must be available Thursday evenings through Sunday
• Work locations include:
  • Puzzled shop in Old Town Albuquerque
  • Various markets and festivals around Albuquerque
  • Occasional community events and partner locations

Compensation

This is a paid internship position. Compensation details will be discussed during the interview process.

Growth Path

There is potential to advance to Marketing Specialist or Digital Strategist roles as our business grows.

How to Apply

Please send your resume, cover letter explaining why you love puzzles and games, and a brief description of a memorable marketing experience you've encountered to melanie@puzzledabq.com

Include "Marketing Intern - Your Name" in the subject line.

Puzzled is committed to creating an inclusive environment for all. We welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds who bring unique perspectives and skills to our team.