Event Coordinator Intern

Job Title: Event Coordinator Intern 
Organization: Downtown Norfolk Council 
Location: Norfolk, VA 
Dates: Summer through Fall Semester Start 
Compensation: $18/ hour 
Hours: 8-24 hours per week; some weeks may require more or fewer hours based on event needs, including potential evening/weekend commitments for specific events. 

Internship Overview: 
The Downtown Norfolk Council is seeking an enthusiastic and highly organized Event Coordinator Intern to gain hands-on experience with the planning, execution, and evaluation of large and small-scale public events. This internship offers a unique opportunity to work closely with the DNC team on key community engagements, including the renowned NEON Festival and the Grand Illumination Parade. The intern will be involved in various components of event management, contributing directly to the success of these signature Downtown Norfolk experiences. 

Goal/Summary: 
The intern will gain hands-on experience with large and small-scale public events across different components of event management including planning, day-of coordination, and evaluation. 

Key Responsibilities: 

Event Support: Provide day-of coordination support for events related to the "Work from Downtown" initiative and DNC Member engagements. 

Program Evaluation: Assist in analyzing data from post-event surveys, conduct in-person surveys with event attendees, and compile event-specific social media and web data for reporting. 

Meeting Participation: Attend internal DNC team meetings and external stakeholder meetings related to events and general DNC operations, as aligned with in-office hours. 

Event Development: Conceptualize and develop a plan for a "Work from Downtown" (WFDT) event for the 2026 calendar year. 

Qualifications: 

Currently enrolled in or recently graduated from a degree program in Event Management, Hospitality, Marketing, Communications, Public Relations, or a related field. 

Strong organizational skills and exceptional attention to detail. 

Excellent written and verbal communication abilities. 

Ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously and meet deadlines. 

Proactive and able to work independently as well as part of a team. 

Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) 

Comfortable with data collection and basic analysis. 

A genuine interest in event planning and community engagement, particularly within the Norfolk area. 

Flexibility to work some evenings and weekends, as dictated by event schedules. 

Must be available for the specified internship dates (August 25 – December 5). 

What We Offer: 

Direct, hands-on experience in the planning and execution of major public events. 

Opportunity to learn from experienced event professionals. 

Exposure to various aspects of non-profit operations and community development. 

A dynamic, supportive, and collaborative work environment. 

A chance to contribute meaningfully to signature Downtown Norfolk events and enhance the community experience. 

Networking opportunities with DNC members, community leaders, vendors, and volunteers. 

To Apply: 
Interested candidates should submit a resume and a cover letter detailing their interest in the Event Coordinator Internship, relevant experience or coursework, and how this opportunity aligns with their career goals. Please confirm availability for the specified internship dates and weekly hours. 

The Downtown Norfolk Council is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values diversity in its workforce. We encourage all qualified individuals to apply. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. 

About the Downtown Norfolk Council (DNC): 
The Downtown Norfolk Council is a dynamic, private, not-for-profit membership organization dedicated to shaping a vibrant, prosperous, and welcoming downtown. For over four decades, DNC has been at the forefront of promoting and enhancing business, cultural, retail, and residential initiatives. We manage the Downtown Improvement District, a 50-block area focused on a clean, safe, and engaging environment for businesses, residents, and visitors alike. From acclaimed events like the Grand Illumination Parade and the NEON Festival to innovative programs like Selden Market and the "Work From Downtown" initiative, DNC is committed to fostering an energetic and inclusive heart of our city. Our vision is for Downtown Norfolk to be the region's most vibrant and welcoming center where people, culture, and commerce intersect.