What are the responsibilities and job description for the Communications & Public Engagement Intern position at City of Lynchburg?
The City of Lynchburg's Communications & Public Engagement Department is seeking an enthusiastic, creative, and organized Communications & Public Engagement Intern with an interest in public service, storytelling, and digital communications. This internship offers a hands-on opportunity to explore the many facets of municipal communications while working alongside a collaborative team of communications professionals.
About the Role
Content Platforms & Tools
Gain hands-on experience with a variety of professional tools and platforms, including:
Ideal Candidate Traits
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES
NoneInternship Details
About the Role
This internship is intentionally designed to provide a well-rounded experience across the many disciplines of municipal communications. Rather than focusing on a single specialty, interns will gain exposure to social media, graphic design, executive communications, media relations, event management, digital asset management, broadcast operations, and public engagement while working as part of a collaborative, cross-trained communications team.
- Create and assist with social media content, including graphics, captions, photography, and short-form video (Reels), while identifying opportunities to incorporate current digital trends consistent with the City's brand.
- Capture, edit, organize, and archive photos and videos using City-owned equipment and the City's Digital Asset Manager (Canto) to build and maintain a high-quality media library.
- Assist with the design of engagement reports, presentations, publications, and other print and digital communication materials while ensuring consistency with the City's visual identity.
- Collaborate with Communications & Public Engagement staff on campaigns, editorial planning, special projects, and community engagement initiatives.
- Support department events, press conferences, and other public-facing activities through photography, videography, logistics, and communications assistance as needed.
- Shadow and assist team members across multiple communications disciplines—including executive communications, media relations, broadcast operations, special events, and administration—to gain a comprehensive understanding of municipal communications.
- Complete additional communications projects and administrative assignments that contribute to the department's mission and professional development.
Content Platforms & Tools
Gain hands-on experience with a variety of professional tools and platforms, including:
- Adobe Creative Cloud (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Premiere Pro, Express)
- Canto Digital Asset Manager
- Meta Business Suite and other social media platforms
- Microsoft Office and Teams
- Photography and video production equipment
Ideal Candidate Traits
- Strong interest in communications, public relations, marketing, or graphic design
- Familiarity with Adobe Creative Cloud and basic design principles
- Comfortable creating social media content and understanding current digital trends
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Strong organizational and time-management abilities
- Detail-oriented with the ability to prioritize multiple projects
- Creative thinker with a willingness to learn new skills
- Positive attitude and collaborative spirit
- Interest in public service and community engagement
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES
NoneInternship Details
- Open to college juniors, seniors, and graduate students
- Interns are expected to work 10–15 hours per week, including some evenings and weekends for event coverage
- Reports to a Communications Manager in the department
- Candidates must submit a cover letter, resume, and a link to a portfolio or samples demonstrating writing, graphic design, photography, video, social media, or other communications work