The Orange County Social Services Agency (SSA) administers Federal State and County social services programs that protect children and adults from abuse or neglect; enable the frail and disabled to remain in their homes rather than being institutionalized; move eligible families from dependency to selfsufficiency; and provide benefits for eligible CalWORKs CalFresh Refugee General Relief and MediCal recipients.
THE OPPORTUNITYSSAs Strategic Communications Legislation and Policy Team provides resources and information to SSA employees and supports staff in carrying out the agencys mission vision and goals. One important function is that of the Public Information Officer who strategically manages the agencys public image through establishing relationships with and providing information to customers the media and community leaders and partners.
Under direct supervision of the Public Information Officer interns will assist with writing proofreading and editing of content graphic design and print production materials such as brochures and newsletters. In addition they will assist with managing the agencys website visual communications and social media sites to increase public awareness and education of residents business partners media and other stakeholders.
Specific duties and assignments may include the following;
- Assist with videotaping and video editingusing Adobe Premiere and Apple iMovie software
- Assist with photography of SSA staff and events
- Assist in creating collateral and graphic materials with InDesign Illustratorand Photoshop
- Assist in responding to a variety of public information related inquiries and requests
- Assist in the coordination set upand presentation during pressrelated events;
- Participate in meetings schedule and conduct presentations assist with daytoday administrative dutiesand other related duties as assigned
- Conduct research gather information and draft content ofagency events and activities
- Assist in the development and updating of media lists and other databases
EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTSApplicants must be currently enrolled in an accredited college/university majoring in
public relations political science marketing communications journalism social work human services visual arts/design videography photography graphic art/design or related fields.Recent graduates who completed their degree in one of the above fields of study are also eligible to apply.
SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONSIdeal candidates for this internship will have a basic understanding of the methods and techniques used in public relations media relations and community outreach; excellent writing skills including proper use of grammar spelling and punctuation; the ability to communicate effectively with the public and staff at all levels of the organization; and maintain a high level of customer service while interfacing with governmental agencies community groups and the general public.
Internsmust have excellent organizational skills with the ability to take direction well and complete assignments under tight deadlines. Computer proficiency is required including familiarity with MS Office applications (e.g. Word Excel PowerPoint Outlook); and
experience with PCbased graphic design and video editing software such as Photoshop Illustrator InDesign iMovie and Adobe Premier.
TIME COMMITMENTUp to 20 hours per week for3ormore hoursduring normal business hours (Monday Friday between 8 a.m. 5 p.m. are able to schedule the maximum hours/duration listed for the internship typically gain a more indepth experience.
BENEFITS AVAILABLE TO INTERNAlthough this is an unpaid internship that does not lead to permanent employment or include employee benefits students and recent graduates are offered an excellent opportunity to:
- Develop public relations social media and communication skills.
- Acquire experience working in a professional office environment for one of Orange Countys largest employers.
- Apply skills and knowledge acquired in an academic setting to the workplace.
- Gain an indepth understanding of the variety of programs and services offered by SSA that encompass health child protection assistance and selfsufficiency in order to promote the well being of Orange County residents.
- Be a part of a highly visible dynamic team.
APPLICATION PROCEDURE
Applicants must attach a cover letter resume unofficial transcripts and a writing sample to their application.
The cover letter is an opportunity for students to describe career and academic goals to elaborate upon personal and academic accomplishments and to identify what type of internship experience they are seeking. Learn more about what to include in a cover letter on our website
here.
Applications that do not include a cover letter resume unofficial transcripts and a writing sample will not be considered.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Interns may be required to occasionally drive their personal vehicles to offsite meetings/events within Orange interns operate a personal vehicle as part of their assignment a valid stateissued drivers license and proof of auto insurance coverage for personal injuries and property damage are required.
REQUIRED BACKGROUND SCREENING/REFERENCE CHECK
Prior to placement applicants may be asked to submit contact information for reference checks and a background screeningwill be conducted that requiresa state issued driverslicense or ID card and a U.S. Social Security number.