📌 Core Information
🔹 Job Title: Communications Intern
🔹 Company: The Century Foundation
🔹 Location: New York, NY (Hybrid)
🔹 Job Type: Part-time, Intern
🔹 Category: Nonprofit, Think Tank
🔹 Date Posted: May 13, 2025
🔹 Experience Level: Entry-level (0-2 years)
🔹 Remote Status: Hybrid (2 days in-office, 3 days remote)
🚀 Job Overview
Key aspects of this role include:
- Assisting the communications team on various projects
- Focusing on media relations support
- Executing media outreach strategies
- Developing persuasive materials
- Maintaining media relations systems
ASSUMPTION: This role is ideal for students seeking practical experience in communications and public policy, with a focus on media relations and content development.
📋 Key Responsibilities
✅ Help execute media outreach strategy, including proactive pitching to local, regional, and national media
✅ Develop materials, such as press releases, media advisories, op-eds, talking points, and more
✅ Prep media inquiries by coordinating interview requests and preparing experts for media appearances
✅ Maintain media relations systems by consistently updating and building press lists, and compiling weekly news clippings
✅ Provide additional support to the communications team, including drafting social media and email copy, assisting on event planning, and building out content on TCF’s website
ASSUMPTION: The intern will work closely with the communications team to ensure consistent messaging and effective outreach across various platforms.
🎯 Required Qualifications
Education: High school degree or equivalent
Experience: Student currently seeking a degree at college or university (undergraduate or graduate), preferably in related studies (political science, public policy, and/or communications)
Required Skills:
- Strong analytical, verbal, written, organizational, and communication skills
- Keen attention to detail and willingness to learn new skills or techniques
- Dedication to building a stronger, more equitable, and more inclusive society
- Commitment to progressive values and interest in TCF’s research agenda
Preferred Skills:
- Previous internship experience in the communications and/or policy field
ASSUMPTION: While previous internship experience is preferred, the organization is open to candidates with no prior experience who demonstrate strong skills and a commitment to their mission.
💰 Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range: $18 per hour (compensated at this rate for 20 hours per week)
Benefits:
- Opportunity to gain practical experience in a progressive think tank
- Exposure to various aspects of communications and public policy
- Potential for future full-time employment based on performance
Working Hours: 4 hours per day, Monday-Friday (2 days in-office, 3 days remote)
ASSUMPTION: The salary range is based on industry standards for part-time internships in the nonprofit sector, with a focus on communications and public policy.
📌 Applicant Insights
🔍 Company Context
Industry: Think Tanks, focusing on progressive public policy research and advocacy
Company Size: 51-200 employees, providing a mid-sized organization with opportunities for growth and collaboration
Founded: 1919, with a rich history of driving policy change and making people’s lives better
Company Description:
- Progressive, independent think tank conducting research, developing solutions, and driving policy change
- Focuses on economic, racial, gender, and disability equity in education, health care, and work
- Promotes U.S. foreign policy that fosters international cooperation, peace, and security
Company Specialties:
- Public Policy
- Research
- Economic Inequality
- Foreign Policy
- Higher Education
- Child Care
- Progressive Policy
- Disability Justice
- HBCUs
Company Website: http://tcf.org
ASSUMPTION: The Century Foundation is committed to diversity and building an inclusive environment for people of all backgrounds, encouraging everyone to apply.
📊 Role Analysis
Career Level: Entry-level, with opportunities for growth and learning within the organization
Reporting Structure: The intern will report directly to the communications team, working closely with them on various projects
Work Arrangement: Hybrid, with 2 days in-office and 3 days remote, providing flexibility for students with other commitments
Growth Opportunities:
- Potential for future full-time employment based on performance
- Exposure to various aspects of communications and public policy
- Opportunity to work on high-impact projects and contribute to the organization’s mission
ASSUMPTION: The internship provides a unique opportunity for students to gain practical experience and make a meaningful impact on the organization’s mission.
🌍 Location & Work Environment
Office Type: Hybrid, with 2 days in-office and 3 days remote
Office Location(s): New York, NY (1 Whitehall, 15th Floor, New York, NY 10004, US) and Washington, D.C. (2040 S St NW, Washington, District of Columbia, US)
Geographic Context:
- New York, NY: Vibrant city with a rich cultural scene and numerous opportunities for professional development
- Washington, D.C.: Hub for political and policy activity, with numerous networking opportunities
Work Schedule: 4 hours per day, Monday-Friday, with a flexible arrangement that accommodates students’ academic schedules
ASSUMPTION: The hybrid work arrangement provides flexibility for students to balance their academic responsibilities with their internship.
💼 Interview & Application Insights
Typical Process:
- Submit application through BambooHR
- Phone or video screen with the hiring manager
- In-person or virtual interview with the communications team
- Background check and onboarding
Key Assessment Areas:
- Communication skills, both written and verbal
- Attention to detail and organizational skills
- Commitment to progressive values and interest in TCF’s research agenda
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Application Tips:
- Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight relevant skills and experiences
- Demonstrate your understanding of TCF’s mission and research agenda
- Showcase your ability to work independently and as part of a team
ATS Keywords: Media Relations, Writing, Communication, Organization, Analytical Skills, Attention to Detail, Event Planning, Social Media, Research, Teamwork, Public Policy, Progressive Values, Learning, Persuasion, Content Development, Press Releases
ASSUMPTION: Applicants should tailor their application materials to highlight the required and preferred qualifications, as well as their alignment with TCF’s mission and values.
🛠️ Tools & Technologies
- Microsoft Office Suite
- Google Workspace
- Social media platforms (Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn)
- Media databases and monitoring tools
ASSUMPTION: The intern will be expected to use various tools and technologies to effectively perform their responsibilities.
👔 Cultural Fit Considerations
Company Values:
- Progressive values and commitment to social justice
- Collaboration and teamwork
- Excellence in research and policy development
Work Style:
- Flexible and adaptable, with a willingness to learn and grow
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Attention to detail and commitment to high-quality work
Self-Assessment Questions:
- Do you share TCF’s commitment to progressive values and social justice?
- Are you able to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment?
- Do you have strong communication and interpersonal skills, with a keen attention to detail?
ASSUMPTION: Applicants should assess their fit with TCF’s values and work style to ensure a successful and fulfilling internship experience.
⚠️ Potential Challenges
- Balancing academic responsibilities with internship commitments
- Adapting to a fast-paced work environment with multiple priorities
- Working remotely and maintaining effective communication with the team
- Navigating the political and policy landscape, particularly for those new to the field
ASSUMPTION: The internship provides a unique opportunity for students to gain practical experience and develop essential skills, but may also present challenges that require adaptability and resilience.
📈 Similar Roles Comparison
- Communications Intern vs. Marketing Intern: Communications interns focus on media relations and content development, while marketing interns focus on market research and promotional activities
- Think Tank vs. Nonprofit: Think tanks focus on research and policy development, while nonprofits may have a broader range of activities and priorities
- Intern vs. Entry-level Position: Internships provide practical experience and an opportunity to gain a foothold in the industry, while entry-level positions offer more responsibility and career growth potential
ASSUMPTION: Applicants should consider the unique aspects of this role and how it compares to other internships and entry-level positions in the field.
📝 Sample Projects
- Developing a media outreach strategy for a new report or event
- Writing persuasive talking points or op-eds on a policy issue
- Assisting with event planning and logistics for a policy forum or conference
ASSUMPTION: The intern will have the opportunity to work on high-impact projects that contribute to TCF’s mission and research agenda.
❓ Key Questions to Ask During Interview
- What are the key priorities for this internship, and how will my work contribute to TCF’s mission?
- How does TCF support the professional development and growth of its interns?
- What are the opportunities for collaboration and teamwork within the communications team and the organization as a whole?
- How does TCF approach diversity, equity, and inclusion in its research and policy work, as well as its internal operations?
- What are the expectations for remote work and communication with the team?
ASSUMPTION: Applicants should ask thoughtful questions that demonstrate their interest in the role and commitment to TCF’s mission.
📌 Next Steps for Applicants
To apply for this position:
- Submit your application through this link
- Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight relevant skills and experiences, as well as your alignment with TCF’s mission and values
- Prepare for your interview by researching TCF’s mission, research agenda, and recent work
- Follow up with the hiring manager after your interview to express your appreciation and reiterate your interest in the role
⚠️ This job description contains AI-assisted information. Details should be verified directly with the employer before making decisions.
