Communications Intern (Undergraduate or Graduate)

Position Description

The City of Seattle’s Office of Sustainability & Environment (OSE) is seeking a current undergraduate or graduate student to join our team as a Communications Intern. In this role, you will support creative and strategic communications projects that help community members, businesses, and elected leaders understand Seattle’s climate priorities.

This internship is an excellent opportunity for students eager to gain hands-on communications experience, learn about local government and policymaking, and engage with Seattle’s most urgent environmental challenges. You’ll also deepen your understanding of race and social justice issues in Seattle, as well as the City’s commitment to improving outcomes and experiences for communities of color.

OSE develops and implements citywide policies and programs that support a sustainable, equitable, and carbon-neutral Seattle - centering communities most impacted by environmental and racial injustices. As a Communications Intern, you will help elevate frontline voices, shape compelling climate stories, and advance equity-driven work toward a healthier, more just city.

Job Responsibilities

Writing, communications, and storytelling (55%)

• Draft and edit clear, accessible content explaining environmental policies and climate issues for community members and partners.
• Contribute to and edit OSE’s blog, press releases, newsletters, website content, messaging, and talking points.
  
  

Data, organization, and administrative support (20%)

• Share communications updates with the Mayor’s Office.
• Maintain news media databases and communications standards.
• Compile and present analytics.
• Attend weekly meetings with the communications team.
  
  

Graphic design, social media, and photography (15%)

• Help design graphics and take/organize photos for social media, blogs, newsletters, and internal communications.
• Build introductory skills in graphic design, photography, and social media content development.
  
  

Event, campaign, and announcement support (10%)

• Assist with preparing major announcements, engaging community members, and sharing updates with OSE staff.
  
  

We’re excited to work with students who are:

• Strong written and verbal communicators
• Organized and able to manage priorities and multiple deadlines
• Responsive, reliable, and collaborative in both virtual and in person settings
• Self-motivated, detail-oriented, and proactive
• Passionate about racial equity and environmental justice
  
  

And students who have experience with:

• Writing clear, accurate, and engaging content under deadline
• Using Microsoft Word, Excel, and shared document tools
• Researching complex topics and simplifying them for diverse audiences
  
  

Students with one or more of the following are strongly encouraged to apply:

• Experience using Canva or other graphic design tools
• Knowledge of AP Style and brand/style guidelines
• Media relations experience (drafting press releases, managing reporter databases, ethnic media engagement, pitching stories)
• Experience developing customized outreach materials for diverse communities
• Familiarity with Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, and X
• Junior or senior undergraduate students, as well as graduate students
  
  

Don’t meet every qualification? That’s okay! We know diverse experiences strengthen our team, and there is no single path to success. If you’re excited about this role, we encourage you to apply.

Qualifications

Applicants must be currently enrolled- undergraduate or graduate- in an accredited higher education program, including community colleges, technical colleges, universities, or other institutions.

Preferred fields of study include Communications, Public Relations/Affairs, Journalism, Creative Writing, Environmental Science, Law/Policy, or related programs.

Minimum GPA Requirements:

• Undergraduate students: 2.0
• Graduate students: 3.0
  
  

Additional Information

Hiring Timeline: Interviews will take place on Thursday, August 27th, and Friday, August 28. We anticipate the internship will begin on Wednesday, September 9, 2026, though this date is flexible depending on school schedules. The internship will run through December 2026, with the possibility of extension.

Schedule & Work Environment: This internship offers a hybrid work schedule that will be coordinated with your supervisor. Interns should expect to report on-site in Seattle when operational needs require. The position is supervised by OSE’s Communications Specialist. Interns may work up to 20 hours per week during the academic year. Work hours generally fall between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., with flexibility based on school and work needs.

Benefits: Learn more at: https://www.seattle.gov/human-resources/working-at-the-city/internships

Hourly Rate: Undergraduate: $22.56 - $22.56 | Graduate: $27.67 - $27.67

Ready to apply? Here are some informational-only tips for applying and interviewing with us(Download PDF reader). Submit your application through the City of Seattle Internship Application portal: https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/seattle/transferjobs

Deadline: 4:00 PM PDT on Tuesday, August 18, 2026

To be consnidered, be sure to include:

• Current resume (PDF)
• Cover letter describing your interest in this internship
• Unofficial transcript including GPA and current coursework
• Writing sample (max 5 pages) demonstrating your writing skills
  
  

Who May Apply? This internship is open to all individuals who meet the minimum qualifications. OSE values diverse perspectives and strongly encourages applications from students of color, immigrants, refugees, LGBTQ individuals, people with disabilities, veterans, and those with lived experience.

Accommodations and Questions: We strive to make our hiring process accessible to all. Individuals with disabilities will be provided reasonable accommodations to participate in the application or interview process, perform essential job functions, and receive all benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact Nicolette.Hornbeck@seattle.gov with any questions or accommodation requests.