Job Description

Position: Communications Intern - Summer 2024

Reports To: Director, Communications

Location: Chicago, Illinois (Hybrid)

Duration: June 4 - August 14, 2024

Compensation: Paid Internship (hourly rates will start at $20/hour)

About the Foundation :

The John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation is one of the nation's largest independent foundations. The Foundation supports creative people, effective institutions, and influential networks building a more just, verdant, and peaceful world. MacArthur is placing a few big bets that truly significant progress is possible on some of the world’s most pressing social challenges, including advancing global climate solutions , decreasing nuclear risk , promoting local justice reform in the U.S. , and reducing corruption in Africa’s most populous country, Nigeria . In addition to the MacArthur Fellows Program , and the global 100&Change competition , the Foundation continues its historic commitments to the role of journalism in a responsible and responsive democracy, as well as the vitality of our headquarters city, Chicago . More information is at www.macfound.org .

About The Communications Team:

The Communications team collaborates with program teams and other colleagues across the Foundation to create and implement strategic communications plans that enhance the impact of MacArthur’s work and the work of grantees. The team is responsible for the Foundation's strategic efforts to communicate with the press, public, and policymakers, including media relations, web and social media efforts, printed materials, and events. The team also provides communications support and advice to MacArthur’s leadership, staff, and grantees.

General Summary of Internship :

The Communications Intern will support the department with a balance of short- and long-term projects.

Responsibilities may include:

• Brainstorming, researching, and creating stories to communicate MacArthur’s work, both written and multimedia;

• Supporting meetings and events for internal and external audiences;

• Researching and developing databases on vendors, media relations work, and peer best practices;

• Contributing to Staff forums on Communications strategies and approaches; and

• Other projects, as determined in consultation with the intern and depending on the team’s needs.

The internship is designed to be a substantive learning experience, so the intern will join Communications team meetings and Staff events and attend briefings by grantees and other practitioners.

The intern will contribute across MacArthur’s areas of work, rather than focus on any one social issue. This internship will be of value to candidates interested in communications, especially as a tool for social change.

Qualifications:

Students must be returning to undergraduate or graduate school next fall to be eligible . Successful candidates will have a demonstrated interest in communications, journalism, public relations, digital communications, and/or public affairs. Strong written and oral communication skills, outstanding organizational abilities, and attention to detail are essential. Experience with social media, photography, video editing or production is a plus.

This internship is based in Chicago, Illinois. Our work environment is hybrid with designated in-office days and virtual days. Interns will be required to reside in the Chicagoland area for the duration of the program.

Application Process:

The application deadline is February 14, 2024

Please include in your application:

• Cover letter explaining your interest

• Resume

• Two creative samples (writing and/or multimedia)

Additional materials, such as a website or digital portfolio, are also welcome. To apply for the intern position, interested candidates should visit www.macfound.org/jobs.