Project Assistant (Economic Development Communications and Social Media Intern)

Statement of Duties: 

The Project Assistant (Economic Development Communications and Social Media Intern) is a creative, organized individual responsible for managing and enhancing the Economic Development Division’s digital presence. This includes overseeing the division’s Instagram account and newsletters. The intern will collaborate closely with the Economic Development team and other internal or external partners to curate relevant updates, news, and promotions for distribution. Additionally, the intern will contribute to the development of policies, guidelines, and long-term strategies to ensure sustainable growth and engagement across communication channels. 

We encourage current college students or recent graduates to apply for this position.  

Essential Functions: 

• Collaborates with internal and external teams to gather updates, news, and promotions relevant for Economic Development’s audience
• Creates content such as photography, editing, graphic design, and captions for Instagram posts
• Planning, scheduling, and posting content on Instagram
• Engage with followers through comments, DMs, and other interactions
• Draft, edit, and distribute monthly newsletter
• Document best practices and develop training modules for social media and other communications channels as necessary
• Create and maintain policies and guidelines for social media content creation
• Develop long term goals and strategies for social media
• Recommend and implement best practices for social media and other communications channels
• Collect and analyze relevant data to inform strategies and content decisions

Qualifications: Education and Experience: High School Degree required. Access to camera and other photography equipment is a plus.  

Knowledge 

• Familiarity with Somerville’s local and current events as relevant to small businesses, residents, and visitors
• Proficiency in Instagram account management and content scheduling
• Knowledge of newsletter creation and distribution

Abilities 

• Ability to work independently and manage tasks efficiently
• Strong interpersonal skills, with cultural sensitives to effectively engage a diverse audience
• Ability to collaborate and communicate effectively with internal and external stakeholders
• Creative problem-solving skills and a proactive approach to challenges

Skills 

• Strong oral and written communication skills
• Ability to schedule meetings, manage emails, and other administrative tasks needed
• Proficiency in photography and graphic design tools, such as Canva or similar platforms (ability to provide examples or portfolio of photography and graphic design is a plus)
• Experience management Instagram accounts, including engagement strategies
• Familiarity with newsletter platforms (Mailchimp) is a plus

Work Environment 

• This position may be completed remotely but requires the ability to visit the Somerville community as needed.

Salary: $20 an hour.
Hours: This position is part-time up to 19 hours a week and not benefits eligible. 
Date posted: February 25th, 2025