Engagement Intern

Engagement Intern

South Dakota Art Museum – Paid Summer Internship Program

Position Type: Part-time
Duration: 15 weeks, 20 hours per week (schedule & exact dates negotiable)
Compensation: $14.00 per hour
Location: Brookings, SD (on-site)

Position Overview

The South Dakota Art Museum (SDAM) is seeking an energetic and creative Engagement Intern to support the Education Department’s outreach and public programming efforts. This paid internship offers hands-on experience in museum education, community engagement, and event coordination, and is ideal for students interested in museum education, public programming, or careers working with youth in arts and cultural institutions.

The intern will work closely with the Curator of Education & Outreach to plan, implement, and support both off-site outreach events and on-site museum programs that connect children and community members with art.

Key Responsibilities

Outreach Event Planning and Management:

• Collaborate with Education Department staff to plan and execute outreach events that engage children in the community with art.
• Assist with event logistics, including scheduling, venue coordination, and communication with other student staff.
• Provide on-site support during outreach events to ensure smooth operations and positive experiences for participants.

Art Activity Planning and Implementation:

• Develop and lead engaging art activities for children using a variety of materials and techniques.
• Design age-appropriate projects that align with current exhibitions and educational goals.
• Prepare materials and resources needed for programs, ensuring activities are safe, accessible, and enjoyable.

Event Management at the Museum:

• Assist in organizing and coordinating on-site programs and events, including the Anderson Plaza Performance Series and other public programs.
• Help maintain a welcoming, inclusive, and organized atmosphere in museum galleries and education spaces.

Who Is Eligible to Apply?

All applicants who are college juniors or seniors, enrolled in graduate programs, or have recently graduated are eligible to apply. Interns are responsible for arranging academic credit with their sponsoring institutions, if applicable.

SDAM seeks applications from undergraduate juniors and seniors and recent graduates majoring in Visual Arts, Art Education, Museum Studies, Education, History, Graphic Design, Consumer Affairs, Marketing, Journalism, and related fields, as well as those interested in pursuing a museum career.

Qualifications

• Excellent communication, writing, and interpersonal skills
• Creativity and enthusiasm for working with children and families
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple tasks
• Comfortable presenting in front of small groups
• Ability to lift and move program supplies as needed
• Interest in museum education, outreach, or community engagement
• Previous experience with youth programming or events helpful but not required

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the internship, the Engagement Intern will have gained hands-on experience in museum education, outreach program development, event coordination, and community engagement—providing a strong foundation for future work in museum education and public programming.