Communications Intern

The American Dental Association is looking for an intern within the ADA communications department to begin in January 2021. The internship is virtual and the duration and hours of the internship are flexible depending on the right candidate’s schedule. This is a paid internship.

The Intern must be able to work effectively with a variety of staff within the ADA. S/he must have good organizational skills and the ability to adapt to new conditions, assignments, and deadlines. S/he must have a solid knowledge of MS Office Suite and superior verbal and written communication skills. The Intern is generally someone who is studying to complete a bachelor’s degree in a communications field or who has recently graduated with a bachelor’s degree and is looking for entry-level experience in a communications and public relations setting. Familiarity with the public relations discipline through past coursework or other internships is desirable.

Position Responsibilities:

Intern candidates must have an interest in the communications/public relations field and possess good interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to work effectively with others.

The Intern is responsible for assisting with implementing and monitoring projects under the direction of the supervisor. S/he works closely with and supports the needs of the communications team.

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Drafting communications materials and content including but not limited to media pitches, press releases, media alerts, social media copy, and short remarks for leadership engagements. 
• Promoting positive news stories to key stakeholders. 
• Compiling resources for ADA spokespersons and media training. 
• Compiling media reports. 
• Creation and maintenance of media contact lists. 
• Tracking leadership speaking engagements. 
• Researching award programs and conferences for ADA leadership. 
• Participation in team brainstorms and meetings.

Requirements:

The ADA is an equal opportunity employer of protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment in open positions without regard to race, ethnicity, gender, color, religion, sex, age, marital status, ancestry, citizenship, physical or mental disability, medical condition, veteran status, sexual orientation or any other protected characteristic.

All personnel actions such as compensation, benefits, company-sponsored training, and tuition assistance will be administered in accordance with the principles of equal employment opportunity. Moreover, the ADA encourages the referral of qualified individuals with disabilities, veterans, women, and minorities.

This position has the following minimum requirements:

• Currently a junior or senior pursuing a bachelor's degree in PR, Communications, Journalism, English, or related field. 
• Recent graduates may apply as well. 
• Understanding of principles of PR and familiarity with AP style. 
• Awareness of media list building tools (Meltwater, Cision, Muckrack, etc. Previous experience with one of these tools is highly desirable). 
• Excellent oral and written communication skills. 
• Ability to commit to the internship for at least three months.

This is a paid internship.