Internships

Based at Franklin Park Zoo, Boston, Mass. 

About the Role 

Zoo New England is looking for a creative, motivated and organized Social Media Intern to support our digital storytelling efforts. This hands-on internship is perfect for someone who loves photography, recording and editing video, is meticulously organized, enjoys the social media ecosystem, and is eager to develop their skills in a non-profit setting. 

This opportunity offers real-world experience to create content in a professional environment. The Social Media Intern works closely with the Social Media Manager to develop and draft authentic social media content that inspires people to connect with animals and conservation. They will also be heavily involved with asset management and supporting the Marketing and Communications team more broadly. 

Key Responsibilities 

• The Social Media Intern can practice multiple elements of the social storytelling process, including opportunities to: 
• Capture high-quality photography and video of animals, events, and guests. 
• Practice customer service by interacting with Zoo guests to collect digital consent forms.  
• Curate only the best photo and video assets to save, rename, tag and file in digital folders for access by the entire marketing team. 
• Assist with content creation for social media platforms including Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and others by editing media assets (via Adobe Photoshop/Premiere Pro, CapCut, etc.), creating graphics (Canva), and drafting captions for approval by Social Media Manager. 
• Participate in brainstorming sessions with the social media and marketing team to develop creative post/story ideas, campaigns and a flexible content calendar.
• Attend professional development programs at the zoo or online or accompany our Field Conservation team into the field for storytelling purposes.
• Experience the day-to-day rigors of social media marketing — every day is different and it is vital to be nimble! 

Qualifications 

• Currently pursuing or recently completed coursework in marketing, communications, media production, photography, film, or a related field 
• Strong interest in social media, storytelling, and digital content 
• Experience and interest in photography and/or videography (DSLR, mirrorless, and/or mobile) 
• Familiarity and/or willingness to learn basic editing tools (Adobe Photoshop, Premiere Pro, CapCut, Canva and/or similar) 
• Organized, detail-oriented, self-motivated and comfortable managing digital files 
• Equally comfortable working outdoors in a dynamic zoo environment as well as a professional office environment 
• Passion for animals, conservation, and engaging audiences online 
• Must have transportation to/from the Zoo and be prepared to work onsite throughout the duration of the internship 

What You’ll Gain 

• Real-world experience creating content in a professional environment 
• Opportunities to build a portfolio featuring professional photos, videos and social media campaigns with relevant analytics 
• Exposure to social media strategy, brand voice, and professional/courteous audience engagement 
• Mentorship from an experienced marketing and communications team 
• Free entrance to the Zoo during the duration of internship and access to perks including a free Individual Membership, discounts to Zoo events and more 
• Zoo New England will also work with the intern to meet requirements for course credit, provide letters of reference for future job opportunities and create/enhance a personal portfolio.   

Schedule and Requirements 

This is an in-person, unpaid internship at Franklin Park Zoo in Boston, Mass. Regular Zoo office hours are from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. with the possibility of occasional evening events. The dates, hours and length of this internship are flexible, but the position requires a minimum of 15 hours per week for 6 weeks.  

Any media assets created while the intern is performing their duties as intern will be owned by intern and Zoo New England, in perpetuity. Interns may not sell, monetize or profit from any footage taken while on shift. 

How to Apply  

To apply, please submit a resume, cover letter and samples of your work to info@ZooNewEngland.org with the subject line "Social Media Intern Applicant."  

The deadline to apply is April 20.