Communications Intern

The City of Mitchell is looking for an engaging and responsible Communications Intern who can commit up to 19.5 hours per week with flexible schedule.  You will gain hands on experience with community outreach and marketing strategies, social media, building and maintaining positive relationships with employees and outside agencies.  Must be currently enrolled in a 2 or 4 year college, majoring in communication, journalism, marketing or closely related field.  Starting pay is $18.00 per hour.  Position is open until January 25, 2026.

Major Duties

• Supports city departments in communication and marketing services.
• Collaborates with outside agencies to engage in promotion of the City.
• Assists with city branding guidelines.
• Promotes and encourages citizen participation, information sharing and participation in meetings as needed.
• Compose, proof-read and prepare information for use by City departments as needed.
• Creates content for the City’s website and social media pages as needed.
• Shoot, produce, edit and publish videos for various communication platforms, including social media, website, YouTube and presentations.
• Take and edit photos to use across multimedia platforms.
• Assists with preparing and coordinating press releases, public information announcements, flyers, advertising and promotions as needed.
• Assists with developing, planning, and coordinating community outreach and public engagement and public relation strategies that will influence and promote ideas and services.
• Performs related duties.

Knowledge Required for the Position

• Knowledge of modern office principles and practices, products and other relevant programs.
• Knowledge of social media management practices and strategic communication planning.
• Knowledge of website applications and services.
• Knowledge of tools, platforms, and digital marketing trends.
• Knowledge of analysis, research, and report preparation methods.
• Skill in prioritizing, analyzing, and planning.
• Skill in maintaining privacy and using discretion appropriately when communicating sensitive information.
• Skill in organization and time management.
• Skill in problem solving and managing multiple projects simultaneously.
• Skill in interpersonal relations and ability to build and maintain relationships with departments and the public.
• Skill in operation of website, social media, graphic design, video editing, and other digital platforms.
• Skill in professional communication in working with the public and cooperatively with departments and agencies.
• Skill in oral and written communication.

Minimum Qualifications

• Currently enrolled in a 2 or 4-year college, majoring in communications, journalism, marketing or closely related field.
• Equivalent combination of education and relevant experience may be considered.
• Experience in crisis management and strategic communication planning is preferred, but not required.
• Must possess high level of professional integrity and maintain confidentiality.
• Successful completion of a background check is required.
• Possession of or ability to readily obtain a valid driver’s license issued by the State of South Dakota for the type of vehicle or equipment operated.