Principal Function: The Public Relations and Communications Intern works under the direction of the Senior Manager of Public Relations and Communications to support the Marketing and Communications team in promoting Conner Prairie's exhibits, programs, events, and mission through strategic communications, public relations, and marketing initiatives.
This hybrid internship provides hands-on experience in media relations, event marketing, content creation, and strategic communications by assisting with media outreach, event logistics, developing marketing and communications materials, and creating engaging content for a variety of communication channels. The intern will participate in on-site meetings, media opportunities, special events, and content creation activities at Conner Prairie as well as doing some work remotely. The intern will collaborate across departments to help ensure consistent messaging while gaining practical, résumé-building experience in nonprofit public relations, communications, marketing, and event coordination within a museum setting.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
Duties include, but are not limited to:
- Research and identify storytelling and content opportunities related to exhibits, programs, events, and organizational initiatives.
- Assist with event promotion/logistics, media engagement, and community outreach efforts, as well as help manage on-site event logistics and communications
- Support media outreach efforts by assisting with press materials and media lists.
- Help coordinate media relations with television stations and in studio or on-site media during events.
- Monitor media coverage and compile press clips and coverage reports.
Supervisory Responsibilities: This job has no supervisory responsibilities.
Education and/or Experience:
- Currently pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Marketing, Journalism, or a related field.
- Strong written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills with exceptional attention to detail.
- Demonstrated interest in public relations, communications, marketing, media relations, or digital communications through coursework, campus organizations, volunteer experiences, or previous internships.
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office and familiarity with social media platforms required.
- Experience with Canva, Adobe Creative Suite, photography, videography, or social media analytics is preferred.
- A passion for storytelling, community engagement, museums, or nonprofit organizations is a plus.
Length of Internship/Hours/Rate of Pay:
- 15 hours/week for 12 weeks
- September - November 2026
- $14.00/hour for up to 180 hours
- Will coordinate and flex schedule around academic commitments as necessary.
Internship Benefits/Perks:
- Professional development; training and orientation
- Practical professional experiences
- Free parking and general admission to Conner Prairie
- Free admission to Conner Prairie events
- Discounts at the Conner Prairie Store and café
- Recommendation letters from staff and documentation of hours served