Purpose
At McKinney, we believe in creating unfair attention for brands. We’re looking for curious, culture-obsessed, concept-driven creatives to join us for Summer 2026. If you’re the kind of person who sees the world not just as it is, but as it could be — we want to meet you.
This isn’t a coffee-run internship. You’ll make real work with real teams for real clients.
What You’ll DoSupport the PR team in developing and executing earned media strategies and integrated communications plans.Draft press materials including press releases, media alerts, pitch letters, and briefing documents for client initiatives.Conduct media research and build targeted media lists using industry tools like Cision or Muck Rack.Monitor daily news cycles and industry trends to identify "newsjacking" opportunities for our brands.Assist with event coordination and influencer outreach programs.Help manage media tracking and monthly reporting to showcase the impact of PR efforts.Participate in brainstorms and contribute creative ideas Collaborate with cross functional teams including social, creative, strategy, influencer, production and more to ensure a consistent brand voice across channels
Who You AreA rising junior, senior, recent grad, or graduate student pursuing Public Relations, Communications, Journalism, or a related field.A strong writer who can adapt their tone based on client voice for everything from a formal press release to a punchy media pitch.News-literate, pop-culture obsessed and deeply curious about the evolving media landscape, from traditional outlets to emerging social platforms. Highly organized with the ability to manage multiple deadlines in a fast-paced environment.A "people person" who enjoys building relationships and isn't afraid to pick up the phone or send a cold pitch.Proactive and resourceful—you’re a problem solver who looks for the story where others see data.Collaborative, adaptable, and energized by the challenge of getting people to talk about our work.
What You’ll GainHands-on experience in a modern PR environment where earned media meets creative advertising.A portfolio of written work, including published press releases or successful media placements.Exposure to the full lifecycle of a PR campaign, from strategy and pitching to measurement and reporting.Mentorship from seasoned PR professionals and communications strategists.A deeper understanding of how PR integrates with creative, strategy, and social media teams.A network of teammates and industry contacts who will champion your career growth.
We’re committed to building a creative culture that reflects the world we’re speaking to. We strongly encourage applicants of all backgrounds, identities, and experiences to apply. Different perspectives make better ideas
SalaryWe offer a competitive salary of $18/hour for up to 40 hours/week.
Right to Work In The US
You must be authorized to work in the US for any employer, at this time, we are not providing or sponsoring assistance with obtaining work authorization.
We are in the office Tuesday - Thursday. We look forward to meeting you!
Dates
The Summer 2026 program runs from June 3 – August 12. We start all employees on Wednesdays
What We Do
McKinney is a creative, media, and influencer agency that gets attention for brands. It is one of Ad Age's 2024 Best Places to Work and a 2024 A-List Agency Standout, reinforcing the agency’s commitment to providing an exceptional workplace culture where employees thrive, and creativity flourishes. McKinney has offices across the country, including Durham, Dallas, Los Angeles, Phoenix, and New York. McKinney has been recognized by Cannes Lions, Effies, The One Show, D&AD, ANDY, CLIO, LIA, the Shortys, and The Webby Awards, among others. Current client partners include brands such as Popeyes, Blue Diamond Growers, Little Caesars, Pampers, Henkel, Samsung, Indivior, Sherwin-Williams, Biogen, and the Ad Council. For more information, visit mckinney.com.
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