PSU Digital Communications Internship | Winter Quarter 2020
Are you passionate about protecting places like the Columbia Gorge from threats such as
irresponsible commercial development and climate change? Want an internship with an
organization working to make a difference? Join us at Friends of the Columbia Gorge this
winter for a special digital communications internship project offered in collaboration
with Portland State University’s Department of Communication.
The digital communications intern will assist in all levels of Friends’ social media efforts,
from routine daily and weekly postings to participating in the conception and execution
of campaigns, reporting, monitoring, and analysis. This is a hands-on position, offering
the opportunity to actively improve tools through which Friends communicates its
message to the public. The ideal candidate will contribute creatively to new and ongoing
projects. An undergraduate or graduate student with an interest in communications,
journalism, multimedia, non-profit communications, and/or environmental policy would
be best suited for this position.
This is a part-time, internship during the 2020 Winter Quarter. Interns will be working
approximately 20 hours/week. Interns will be paid $14.00 an hour and will be reimbursed
for transportation to and from work.
To apply: Please send a resume, cover letter, and links to any digital work samples to
jobs@gorgefriends.org. Resumes will be reviewed on a rolling basis.
Digital Communications Intern Project Overview
In early spring 2020 Friends of the Columbia Gorge will launch a brand refresh as a kick-
off to a year of activities in celebration of Friends 40th anniversary in November 2020.
Part of this effort will be a relaunch of digital hiking resources on Friends' website with a
new emphasis on responsible recreation and stewardship. Included will be the creation of
new content and functionality for community advocates to get involved in efforts to
protect and preserve the Columbia Gorge for future generations.
We are looking for a digital communications intern with experience in web and social
media content development to help us on this journey as we prepare during winter 2020.
Duties will include helping with digital content development to support the relaunch of
Friends digital hiking resources as well as helping write articles and develop engaging
content for Friends website and blog. The exact areas of weekly activities will be
adjusted to suit intern’s strengths and interests and to align with ongoing current projects
within the Public Engagement team.
Other digital intern responsibilities may include:
● Developing regular creative content for Friends social media accounts—including
Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Linked-In;
● Assisting in creation and production of digital newsletters and e-blasts;
● Assisting in tracking, recording, and logging Friends media clips; and
● Collaborating with staff on to help develop new communications tools and tactics
to educate and engage PNW residents in protecting, preserving, and stewarding
the Columbia Gorge.
What You’ll Learn
Successful interns will finish the quarter with hands-on digital content development
experience with samples to add to their portfolios, and a breadth of skills they can bring
to any entry-level communications position including:
● Gaining experience working with seasoned nonprofit professionals at a leading
PNW conservation advocacy group and certified land trust;
● Learning the ins and outs of developing and executing effective nonprofit digital
media strategies;
● Deepening knowledge of social media content development and strategy, web
SEO and analytics, and digital advertising; and
● Building communication and collaboration skills writing articles and developing
other digital content to enhance Friends' storytelling and public education efforts.
Qualifications
College junior, senior, or graduate student enrolled in a communications, public relations,
journalism, English, graphic design or related degree program, or have recently obtained
such a degree. Knowledge or strong interest in environmental and energy policy and a
passion for protecting and preserving the Columbia Gorge for future generations is a
must.
Qualities We Are Seeking
● Passionate about storytelling and communications;
● A talent for learning new skills quickly;
● Creativity and willingness to contribute ideas;
● Ability to self-manage independent work, as well as thrive as part of a team
Required Skills
● Prior experience developing and publishing content for a website using a Content
Management System (knowledge of basic HTML coding a plus);
● Demonstrably strong writing and editing skills;
● Prior experience developing social media content for an organization or
campaign;
● Highly organized and detail oriented with a proven ability to meet deadlines
Preferred Skills
● Multimedia, graphic design, video editing and photography skills desired, but not
mandatory
Environment
This position requires sitting or standing at a desk, using a computer, talking on the
phone, and the ability to lift up to 30 pounds.
ADA
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to
perform essential job functions.
EEOE
Friends provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without
regard to race, color, religion, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, sexual
orientation, or status as a veteran or disabled veteran in accordance with applicable local,
state and federal laws.
To Apply:
To Apply
Please send a resume, cover letter, and links to any digital work samples to
jobs@gorgefriends.org. Resumes will be reviewed on a rolling basis.