Communications Intern

Description

The City of Lake Forest is seeking a creative and motivated college student majoring in English, Communications, or a related field to join our team as a Communications Intern. This position will work primarily out of the Public Safety Building and will focus heavily on supporting Police and Fire communications. The intern will gain hands-on experience in municipal communications while helping tell the story of Lake Forest’s public safety professionals and contributing to projects that enhance community engagement and promote City initiatives.

Examples of Duties

• Assist in writing and editing social media posts, newsletters, and website content, with an emphasis on Police and Fire Department communications.
• Develop and schedule social media content and campaigns across platforms to highlight public safety initiatives, community outreach, and day-to-day department work.
• Help showcase the work of first responders through engaging storytelling, interviews, and behind-the-scenes features.
• Take photos and create videos for use on social media, the website, and other City communication channels, especially related to Police and Fire operations, training, and events.
• Write journalistic stories for the City’s Lake Forest Love blog by conducting interviews and collaborating with staff, including public safety personnel.
• Conduct research to support marketing and outreach initiatives, particularly those related to community safety and engagement.
• Collaborate with City staff to develop content that aligns with brand standards and community goals.
• Assist with daily administrative and communications support duties.

Qualifications

• Current college student majoring in English, Communications, Digital Media, Journalism, Marketing, Public Relations, or a related field.
• Strong writing and editing skills, with attention to detail.
• Familiarity with social media platforms and content creation, especially Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.
• Interest in public safety communications, community storytelling, or local government.
• Self-starter with the ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Enthusiasm for public service and community engagement.
• Basic knowledge of photography and graphic design tools is a plus, but not required.

Supplemental Information

Benefits:

• Gain practical experience in public sector and public safety communications.
• Build a professional portfolio that includes social media campaigns, video, photography, and written storytelling.
• Explore your interests by creating content on a variety of topics, with a strong focus on police, fire, and emergency services.

Interested candidates should submit a resume, cover letter, and two writing samples.