Graphic Design

The Graphic Design Intern produces visual assets for print, stage, digital, and social use, working inside an established brand system. This role is built for portfolio applicants and is one of the few in the program with a fully tangible output: by the end of a cycle, a design intern can point to assets that appeared in a national conference hall.

Core Duties

• Design social graphics, digital ads, web assets, and email headers to specification.
• Produce print collateral including signage, programs, badges, and handouts, prepared to press specifications.
• Design large-format and stage graphics for event environments.
• Apply the brand system consistently and flag off-brand usage elsewhere in the organization.
• Revise work against art direction and consolidated feedback.
• Prepare and export files in correct formats, sizes, and color spaces for each destination.
• Maintain the organized asset library, including source files and version control.
• Track and meet vendor and print deadlines, which do not move.

Role-Specific Qualifications

• **Portfolio required with application.**
• Working proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, particularly Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign.
• Understanding of print production basics: bleed, resolution, CMYK versus RGB.
• Ability to work within an existing brand system rather than around it.

Standard Qualifications — All Internships

• Current enrollment in an accredited college or university; eligible for the Federal Work Study Program where applicable.
• Senior in high school, recent high school graduate, or GED equivalent.
• Strong organizational skills with attention to detail and accuracy.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and general computer literacy.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.
• Reliable, punctual, and professional demeanor.
• Discretion with confidential and pre-release information; adherence to all organizational policies, including confidentiality, data handling, and workplace safety standards.
• Prior office or customer service experience is a plus but not required.

Internship: minimum 16 hours per week, in person, Alexandria, VA. You are allowed to work up to 40 hours a week with limited overtime opportunities.

Every intern completes the program's five core competencies and attends the annual conference. Expect a written midpoint review, weekly one-on-one supervision, and a documented portfolio of completed work.