Communications and Community Relations Intern

City Utilities (CU) has been a cornerstone of the community since 1945, providing essential services that support everyday life. As a publicly owned utility, CU meets the diverse needs of its customers by offering electricity, clean water, natural gas, internet service, and transit options. These services touch every aspect of our lives, from powering homes and businesses, maintaining health through safe and reliable water, ensuring warmth, enabling communication, and facilitating transportation. CU’s commitment to quality service and sustainable management of resources has earned it a trusted position in the region.

The internship position at City Utilities offers a unique opportunity for students pursuing higher education to gain practical experience in a dynamic governmental utility environment. This role allows interns to work actively within the Communications and Community Relations department, engaging in meaningful tasks that develop creative and professional skills. The internship is designed to accommodate a flexible schedule, requiring 20-25 hours per week during the academic semesters and full-time, 40 hours per week during the summer, without exceeding 1,500 hours annually. Eligible candidates must be full-time students enrolled in relevant degree programs and maintain specific credit hour requirements each semester. Compensation ranges from $15.00 to $19.00 per hour, based on student classification.

Under the guidance of the Multi-Media Specialist II or a designated supervisor, the communications intern plays a crucial role in supporting diverse facets of CU’s outreach efforts. Key responsibilities include content creation and creative writing, management of social media channels, collaboration on fundraising and community events, production of digital and printed media, and provision of logistical and administrative support. This internship enables students to develop and refine skills in marketing, media services, public relations, and digital communications within a professional utility context.

The role emphasizes versatility, creative problem-solving, and effective communication. Interns are tasked with writing and editing engaging content for various platforms, assisting with event preparation and volunteer coordination, creating PowerPoint presentations, and supporting audio/visual setups. In addition, the position requires maintaining confidentiality, adhering to office procedures, and utilizing a range of digital tools including Microsoft Office, Adobe Creative Suite, and other emerging technologies pertinent to utility operations. The internship also demands exceptional organizational capabilities and the ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment.

Physical requirements include typical office work such as frequent use of computer equipment, bending and stooping for filing, and clear verbal and visual communication. The office environment is standard, with occasional requirements for extended or weekend hours, reflecting the dynamic nature of community engagement activities. New hires must adhere to internship guidelines throughout their employment to remain eligible.

This internship not only equips students with valuable real-world experience but also aligns with City Utilities’ dedication to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. CU actively promotes equal employment opportunities, welcoming applicants from all backgrounds. Engaging with this internship offers students a pathway to professional growth while contributing to a utility that is crucial to community wellbeing and infrastructure.