Creative Design Intern

Job Description

About the Internship: Creative Design Intern

Heard Creative, a female-founded creative agency based in Rochester, NY, is seeking a passionate and growth-oriented Creative Design Intern. This unique internship offers students currently enrolled in graphic design programs (or related majors) a hands-on opportunity to gain experience in the advertising industry. You will work alongside our Designer/Art Directors on real client projects in a supportive, feedback-driven environment that values fresh perspectives and the power of listening.

To succeed in this role, you should be collaborative, curious, and eager to experiment with new concepts while strengthening your professional craft. At Heard, an internship is an immersive, hands-on role where you will be treated as a true member of the creative team, tasked with meaningful project ownership that may contribute to your portfolio.

What You’ll Do: Primary Responsibilities

• Contribute to Creative Projects: Work directly on client projects to gain practical experience, participating in internal reviews to effectively interpret and apply feedback.
• Shadow and Learn: Spend time with team members from every department to understand the full agency process and learn efficient professional ways of working.
• Engage with Others: Attend meetings and interact directly with clients, team mentors, and agency leadership.
• Manage Projects: Strengthen your professional development by learning to manage timelines and project requirements effectively.

What You’ll Bring: Requirements & Qualifications

• Educational Background: Current enrollment as a junior or senior in a Graphic Design program (or a closely related field) with a strong understanding of core design principles.
• Design Portfolio: Original creative samples that highlight your versatility, attention to detail, and overall craft.
• Technical Proficiency: Strong skills in Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator) and experience within Google Workspace (Gmail, Chat, Calendar, Slides) and Microsoft Office (PowerPoint).
• Soft Skills: High emotional intelligence, great communication skills, and a collaborative attitude.
• Proactive Mindset: A genuine passion for design and a commitment to continual learning.

What You’ll Get: Compensation & Additional Details

• Hourly Compensation: $22.00 per hour (Part-Time).
• Program Duration: 10 weeks (aligned with your academic calendar/summer break).
• Balanced Schedule: 20–30 hours per week, centered around our core working hours of 10am–4pm ET.
• Hybrid Workspace: This role is hybrid, based out of our Rochester, NY office.
• Collaborative Culture: An environment that fosters autonomy, curiosity, and belonging.