Communications & Digital Media Intern

Attach a resume and cover letter - Position pays $20.00 per hour

Position Overview: The Portland Water District is seeking an energetic, curious, outgoing Communications & Digital Media Intern to get out in the field and tell real stories. This role is hands-on and visible, focused on capturing the people, places, and work behind the services we provide every day. The position supports the Communications Department and provides a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in digital media, communications, marketing, and event planning within a dynamic, mission-driven organization. 

This internship runs between mid-May and mid-August, 15-20 hours a week.

Reports to: Director of Communications and Public Relations   Direct Reports: None

Job Duties:

• Get out in the field to capture content—video, photos, and interviews with staff, crews, and community members.
• Identify and develop story ideas that highlight the people and work behind our water and wastewater services.
• Create short-form videos, photo stories, graphics, and written pieces for social media, web, and newsletters.
• Provide support on communication campaigns and initiatives, including digital media, email marketing, event coordination and promotion, and community outreach.
• Attend events, site visits, and community activities to document and promote Portland Water District initiatives.
• Conduct basic research to support storytelling and content development.
• Evaluate photo and video management platforms and present findings and recommendations on a solution that improves accessibility, searchability, and long-term use.
• Develop a simple, scalable tagging and organization system to support storytelling and brand consistency.
• Implement the selected system, including migrating and organizing priority content.
• Provide general administrative support to the Communications team, including coordinating meetings, preparing materials, and updating content calendars.
• Work closely with the Portland Water District communications team, outside marketing firm, photographers, and other brand partners.

Physical Job Functions:  Standing, sitting, walking, driving, kneeling, crawling, squatting, twisting, bending, reaching, climbing, visual accuracy, clear verbal and written communication, lifting (max 30lbs)

Minimum Requirements: An individual must be able to perform Essential Job Responsibilities satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

• Currently pursuing a degree in Digital Media, Journalism, Communications, Marketing, or related field.
• Outgoing, curious, and comfortable starting conversations with new people.
• Strong storytelling instincts and experience through writing, video, and photography.
• Ability to work independently, manage time well, and follow through on assignments.
• A creative mindset with an eye for authentic, engaging content.
• Familiarity with social media platforms (Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, TikTok).
• Experience with creative tools (Canva, Adobe Creative Suite, DaVinci Resolve, iMovie, etc.) preferred.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to travel to field locations preferred.