Communications Intern

The intern will report and write articles for The Appalachian Voice publication and assist the team with editing, visuals and publication tasks for the online and print editions of The Appalachian Voice. The intern will also produce social media content, including graphics, that highlights pieces they write or pieces written by other contributors. In addition, the intern will record and potentially edit audio versions of Voice articles and may contribute video content. 

The intern may also write for the organization’s blog, website or contribute to various reports. Depending on the intern’s skill and availability, they may produce audio or video stories as well. During the production period for our annual print edition of The Appalachian Voice, the intern may assist with proofing and various layout tasks. 

The intern may work remotely within the Central and Southern Appalachian region or out of our offices in Boone, North Carolina; Charlottesville or Norton, Virginia; Knoxville, Tennessee; or Charleston, West Virginia. 

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Write for The Appalachian Voice, Front Porch Blog and other communications channels; this involves researching, interviewing, writing, fact-checking, editing and preparing art;
• Record and possibly edit audio versions of Appalachian Voice articles;
• Develop social media to promote the pieces the intern produces, and potentially assist with other social media posts;
• Potentially assist with publishing content to the web;
• Copyedit, proof pages, assist with layout and otherwise contribute to the annual print production of The Appalachian Voice;
• Potentially produce video material;
• Edit content across Appalachian Voices channels as needed.
  

SKILLS & REQUIREMENTS:

• Strong writing skills required; ability to clearly and concisely discuss complex issues
• Willingness to work through multiple rounds of editing and fact-checking with a positive attitude
• Experience or aptitude for reading articles aloud and recording
• Interest in energy, environmental and community issues in Appalachia
• Collaborative team player and good sense of humor 
• Experience with journalistic writing or other public-facing writing preferred
• Audio editing and/or video experience optional but preferred

Duration & Compensation

This internship is a part-time, temporary, non-exempt position that will require an average of 15 hours per week, excluding observed holidays. The duration of the position is 6 months, from January through May, though an extension may be available. The compensation for this position is $15 per hour, paid on a bi-weekly basis. Health insurance and other benefits are not provided. 

This is a great opportunity to:

• Gain hands-on experience in written and multimedia storytelling for a mission-driven nonprofit
• Learn how community organizing, policy advocacy and communications interact
• Work closely with experienced communications staff 
• Receive mentorship and opportunities to develop professional skills

To Apply

Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until the position is filled. For early consideration, candidates should apply by Monday, November 30. Using the application link, please submit:

• A resume
• Three writing samples, journalistic or other public-facing materials preferred
• If applicable, a sample each of graphic design, video and/or audio work
• A brief cover letter describing why you are interested in the role and what draws you to work with a nonprofit organization focused on energy and environmental issues in Appalachia

Appalachian Voices participates in E-Verify. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States.