Public Relations Intern

Job Description

About company

Walker Sands is an equal opportunity employer deeply committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. The company strongly encourages applications from people of color, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and non-binary individuals, veterans, parents, and individuals with disabilities. They welcome everyone to their team and provide an option to note pronouns in applications. Walker Sands values a supportive and collaborative culture where team members work hard to achieve the best outcomes for clients.

Beyond internship benefits, the company offers a comprehensive benefits package to its full-time team members, reflecting its commitment to employee well-being and growth. These include:
• Health Coverage: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans, along with mental health resources, pet insurance, and fertility benefits.
• Retirement Savings: Employer-matched 401(k) and access to financial planning services.
• Flexible PTO: Generous time off for vacations, mental health, or personal days, including 8 paid holidays, half-day summer Fridays, and a full week off between Christmas and New Year.
• Milestone Sabbatical: A two-week sabbatical and a $2,000 gift to celebrate five years of service.
• Family Support: Extensive paid leave for new parents and caregivers, and policies addressing pregnancy loss and adoption challenges.

Job Description

Walker Sands is seeking an energetic, detail-oriented Public Relations Intern for a paid, 12-week, 40-hour per week hybrid internship, reporting to their Chicago office. The internship is scheduled to begin on September 8, 2025.

Key Responsibilities:
• Developing media lists.
• Conceptualizing and executing pitches.
• Writing press releases.
• Coordinating contributed articles.

Required Skills and Qualifications:
• Strong interest in the media, trends, and identifying newsworthy stories.
• Solid writing foundation and an interest in conducting web research.
• An obsession with grammar and the ability to enhance writing quality; a keen eye for typos.
• Must be a self-starter, able to think on your feet, and adapt quickly to changing priorities.
• Passionate about the PR/Communication industry.
• A strong desire and eagerness to learn and grow.

Internship Details and Eligibility:
• This is a 12-week, paid internship at an hourly rate of $18.00/hour.
• Candidates must be eligible for full-time employment upon completion of the program. Students who will remain enrolled in a full-time academic program in the semester immediately following the internship are not eligible.
• While full-time employment is not guaranteed, offers may be extended based on individual performance and the availability of open roles.
• Interns will work on a small team for clients specializing in the B2B and technology sectors, gaining in-depth exposure to the PR industry.
• All PR internship candidate finalists will be required to complete a writing test.

Internship Benefits:
• Hybrid Work: A mix of in-office and remote work, supported by tools for team connection.
• Growth Opportunities: Access to a structured learning program, a coaching program, and various learning events to foster professional development.
• Culture: Integration into a supportive, collaborative agency culture focused on achieving optimal client outcomes.