Intern, Communications

The Association of Zoos and Aquariums is seeking a Communications Summer Intern to join our External Affairs team. This internship offers a valuable opportunity to gain experience in public relations and communications by assisting with writing and editing for media, communicating with member zoos and aquariums for collaborative opportunities, and drafting and scheduling social content. The internship is structured to provide hands-on learning through project-based assignments, training, and ongoing feedback.

This internship is based in our Silver Spring, MD headquarters and is eligible for our hybrid work schedule. Interns must be based in DC, MD, or VA for the duration of the internship. This internship will run 10 weeks in the summer, from June to August. The core internship cohort dates are June 8 – August 14. Start and end dates are flexible based on the intern’s summer calendar.

Responsibilities

• Communicating and coordinating with AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums around the world on social media campaigns

• Coordinating and implementing a SAFE PSA campaign outreach across the U.S.

• Writing and editing a media release and a digital Connect article

• Compiling media coverage from member facilities for Member Headlines

• Drafting content and scheduling posts on Sprout for AZA social media pages

Qualifications

• Currently enrolled in (at least a Junior) or recently graduated from a college or university program in communications, public relations or a related field.

• Interest or experience with zoos and aquariums is preferred.

• Strong organizational and time management skills.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

• Detail-oriented and able to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.

• A positive attitude and willingness to learn.

• Experience with Sprout, Meltwater, and Canva is a plus.

• Experience writing for media and basic understanding of social media.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook)

This is a paid internship with an hourly rate of $18 and working up to 20 hours per week.

AZA offers a comprehensive benefits package for eligible positions, including but not limited to health insurance options, life and disability insurance, and a 401(k) retirement plan. To encourage work/life balance, AZA also offers a variety of paid time off plans including vacation, sick, and personal time; holidays; and parental leave. AZA also offers hybrid work schedules and flexible work weeks for eligible positions. We regularly review our benefits to ensure they remain competitive and responsive to employee feedback.

AZA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected characteristic. We use E-Verify to confirm the identity and employment eligibility of all new hires.