Communications and Media Relations Volunteer Internship

Group of people on land getting ready to kayak

Fly fishing — By Martin Falbisoner - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link

Position Description

Do you want to help save the ocean? The Office of National Marine Sanctuaries serves as the trustee for a network of underwater parks encompassing more than 620,000 square miles of marine and Great Lakes waters from Washington state to the Florida Keys, and from Lake Huron to American Samoa. The network includes a system of 15 national marine sanctuaries and Papahānaumokuākea and Rose Atoll marine national monuments.

The Communications Team is responsible for promoting the national marine sanctuary system’s mission, brand and programs, primarily through earned media, partnerships and public outreach. The Communications and Media Relations Internship offers the opportunity to learn about the breadth of the agency’s work and how the Communications Team supports it through media planning, strategic messaging, content development and social media.

Major activities include (but not limited to):

Research journalist coverage; suggest pitch angles and media targets
Participate in strategy discussions and provide input on communications strategies
Prepare talking points, press materials and other products
Attend and take notes at meetings; assist with updating and curating topic pages

Preferred Qualifications:

Thorough understanding of traditional and new media
Excellent writing, grammar and visual communication skills, including ability to present complex information in a concise and compelling manner
Ability to multitask and work well in a fast-paced environment
Genuine interest in communications, public affairs and marine conservation

To apply, please email a cover letter, resume and a 500-750 word writing sample that discusses whether social media can advance ocean conservation to: vernon.smith@noaa.gov.