Social Media & Digital Communications Intern

Social Media & Digital Communications Intern

Washington Policy Center (WPC) Seattle, WA (Hybrid) | Part-Time | Paid Internship

Washington Policy Center is an independent, nonpartisan research organization dedicated to promoting free-market solutions that improve the lives of Washingtonians. For three decades, WPC has informed public debate through research, events, media engagement and citizen education on issues including affordability, education, government accountability, transportation, health care, energy, agriculture and worker rights. WPC employs a statewide team, reaches hundreds of thousands of Washingtonians annually and hosts some of the largest public policy events nationwide.

Position Overview

Washington Policy Center is seeking a creative, motivated and detail-oriented Social Media & Digital Communications Intern to help expand the reach and impact of our research, events and educational content specifically within the Gen Z demographic.

This internship is ideal for a student or recent graduate interested in marketing, communications, journalism, political science, public policy, digital media or related fields. The intern will work closely with WPC's Marketing & Communications team to create engaging content, grow online audiences and help communicate policy ideas in ways that resonate with everyday Washingtonians.

This position offers hands-on experience in digital storytelling, content creation, social media strategy, public policy communications and nonprofit marketing.

Responsibilities

Responsibilities may include:

• Drafting social media content for platforms including Facebook, X, LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok and YouTube
• Creating graphics, short-form videos, reels and visual content
• Assisting with video clipping and editing from interviews, events and policy presentations
• Monitoring social media channels and identifying engagement opportunities
• Tracking performance metrics and preparing analytics reports
• Assisting with email marketing campaigns and digital outreach
• Supporting promotion of WPC events, publications and policy initiatives, including engagement with the WPC Young Professionals program
• Researching trends, audience interests and best practices in digital communications
• Helping maintain content calendars and scheduling posts
• Assisting with photography, videography and event coverage as needed

Desired Qualifications

The ideal candidate will:

• Be enrolled in or recently graduated from a college or university program
• Experience editing videos with graphics integration
• Have strong written and verbal communication skills
• Demonstrate creativity and attention to detail
• Be comfortable using major social media platforms professionally
• Have basic experience with Canva, Adobe Creative Suite, CapCut or similar design/video tools
• Possess strong organizational and time-management skills
• Be self-motivated and eager to learn
• Have an interest in public policy, economics, current affairs, journalism or nonprofit communications

Preferred but not required:

• Experience managing social media accounts
• SEO experience / working knowledge
• Photography or videography skills
• Familiarity with analytics tools and content performance metrics

What You'll Gain

• Hands-on experience with one of Washington state's leading public policy organizations
• Exposure to media relations, public affairs and nonprofit communications
• Opportunities to work alongside policy experts, journalists and community leaders
• Professional mentoring and career development
• Portfolio-building experience through published content and campaigns
• Networking opportunities through WPC events and statewide initiatives

Schedule & Compensation

• Approximately 12 –20 hours per week
• Flexible schedule designed to accommodate academic commitments
• Paid internship at the applicable Washington State minimum wage or higher depending on experience
• Academic credit may be available depending on the student's institution

To Apply

Please submit:

• Resume
• Cover letter describing your interest in the role and why you would be a great addition to our team
• One or two examples of social media, design, writing or video work (if available)

Washington Policy Center's mission is to promote open and fact-based dialogue around solutions that advance Washington using free-market principles through research and collaboration with lawmakers, stakeholders and citizens. This internship is an opportunity to help communicate ideas that influence public policy while developing valuable professional skills for a future career in communications, marketing, journalism, public affairs or nonprofit leadership.