Social Media College Intern

Make a Difference. Tell Our Story. Protect Arizona.

Are you passionate about storytelling, social media, and making a real impact in your community? The Arizona Department of Public Safety (AZDPS) is looking for a creative and motivated Social Media College Intern to join our Highway Patrol Social Media Team. This isn’t just another internship—it’s a chance to gain hands-on experience in law enforcement communications, learn from public safety professionals, and help shape the Department’s digital presence across Arizona. You’ll create engaging content, share inspiring stories from the field, and help strengthen the relationship between the Highway Patrol Division and the communities we serve.

Under direct supervision, the Social Media Intern supports the Arizona Department of Public Safety’s (AZDPS) Communications and Public Affairs Unit in creating, managing, and evaluating content for the Department’s social media platforms. This position offers hands-on experience in digital communications, public information, and community engagement within a law enforcement environment. The intern will assist in promoting public safety awareness, supporting recruitment efforts, and showcasing the Department’s mission to protect human life and property. This classification is designed to provide an educational benefit to students pursuing a career in communications, journalism, marketing, public relations, or a related field. This classification is designated as uncovered; the incumbent serves at the pleasure of the Director of the Department of Public Safety.  Application period may close without notice.

1. Assists in developing and scheduling social media content (text, photos, graphics, and videos) for platforms such as Facebook, X (Twitter), Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube.
2. Monitors social media channels for engagement opportunities, community feedback, and public sentiment regarding Department initiatives.
3. Supports digital campaigns related to safety awareness, recruitment, and community outreach.
4. Conducts research on trends in digital communication, public engagement strategies, and law enforcement social media practices.
5. Assists with the creation of visual and written materials for press releases, recruitment drives, and public events.
6. Participates in event coverage, including capturing photos and videos for social media use.
7. Compiles analytics reports to evaluate social media performance and engagement.
8. Performs special projects or assignments as directed by the Communications and Public Affairs Unit.

Knowledge of:

1. Social media platforms and current trends in digital communication.
2. Basic principles of public relations, journalism, or marketing.
3. English spelling, grammar, and punctuation for writing and editing public-facing content.
4. Ethical standards and legal considerations in law enforcement communications, including confidentiality and accuracy.

Skill in:

1. Writing clear, concise, and engaging messages for diverse audiences.
2. Using social media management tools and content creation applications (e.g., Canva, Hootsuite, Adobe Express).
3. Photography, videography, and basic digital editing (preferred).
4. Microsoft Word, Excel, and other common office software applications.

Ability to:

1. Represent the Department in a professional and respectful manner online and in person.
2. Communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
3. Work collaboratively with sworn and civilian staff to promote agency initiatives.
4. Exercise sound judgment and discretion in handling sensitive or confidential information.
5. Manage multiple assignments, meet deadlines, and adapt to fast-paced communication environments.
6. Analyze engagement data and suggest strategies to enhance outreach effectiveness.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

1. Basic knowledge of social media platforms and current trends
2. Strong writing and editing skills
3. A creative eye for visuals (photography or video skills a plus!)
4. Familiarity with Microsoft Word, Excel, and tools like Canva, Hootsuite, or Adobe Express
5. The ability to work collaboratively, meet deadlines, and communicate clearly

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

1. Must be at least 16 years of age at the start of the internship.
2. Must have the legal right to work in the United States.  
3. Must complete a background check.
4. Must pass a drug screen. 
5. Must be enrolled in a college program or its equivalent. 

WORKING CONDITIONS/PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
Office setting.

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt