Communications Intern

Job Description

Job Title: Communications Intern

Job Req ID: 577

Closing Date: 02/03/2026

About the Role

The City of San Diego is seeking a dedicated and enthusiastic intern to join its Communications Department as part of the Engagement Team. This is a year-long internship commitment, offering valuable hands-on experience within a dynamic municipal environment. The role is classified as Unclassified.

Commitment & Work Schedule

• Duration: Year-long commitment
• Weekly Hours: Maximum of 20 hours per week
• Total Hours: Not to exceed 1,200 hours over the year
• Supervision: Direct supervision by Communications staff

Key Responsibilities

Under the guidance of experienced Communications staff, the intern will assist with a variety of duties aimed at enhancing public information and engagement. Specific responsibilities for this role include:

• Assisting staff with the development, dissemination, and promotion of public information materials for both internal and external audiences.
• Conducting research and gathering relevant information to support communication initiatives.
• Updating existing documents, online directories, and files to ensure accuracy and accessibility.
• Taking photos and assisting with content management and photo archives for various platforms.

Interns may also contribute to broader City initiatives, with duties potentially including:

• Assisting with planning events.
• Collecting and analyzing data.
• Supporting various projects.
• Preparing reports and presentations.
• Attending internal and external stakeholders’ meetings.
• Participating in field work.

All work assigned will be project-based, temporary, and will not compromise the work of a bargaining unit employee.

Ideal Candidate Profile

We are looking for an intern who is eager to contribute and grow within the communications field. The ideal candidate will possess:

• Experience or Interest: Communications, public and media relations, social media, and graphic design.
• Preferred Skills: Strong organization and writing skills.
• Technical Familiarity: Microsoft Office, Adobe Creative Suite, Google, and Canva.

Minimum Requirements

To be eligible for this internship opportunity, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Age: 15 ½ years of age or older.
• Citizenship/Work Authorization: Must be a United States citizen or have the current legal right to work in the United States.
• Education: Must be enrolled in a continuing education, traditional education, or training program.
• Funding: Must meet grant criteria for funding (as applicable to the overall intern program).

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary Range: Paid internships for this role will be compensated at an hourly rate between $19.47 to $22.75, consistent with Exhibit C of the Salary Ordinance and commensurate with an applicant’s education level.
• Health/Time Off: Not eligible to receive paid vacation leave, paid holidays, and/or any type of City-sponsored insurance.
• Retirement: Will participate in the City’s Defined Benefit Plan administered by the San Diego City Employees’ Retirement System (SDCERS).
• Transportation: Will receive a free transit pass (including MTS Trolley, MTS Bus, and all Rapid and Rapid Express bus services).
• Sick Leave: Will accrue paid sick leave while employed in a paid internship (eligible for use after 90 days of employment).

Overview of the City of San Diego Internship Program

The City of San Diego comprises more than 30 operational departments. Internship opportunities arise when project-based needs are identified across various departments. This program provides part-time employment opportunities for students enrolled in continuing education, traditional education, or training programs to gain valuable hands-on experience directly related to their career interests or areas of study. Internships are designed to be temporary and project-based, ensuring they complement, rather than compromise, the work of permanent bargaining unit employees.