NOTE TO APPLICANTS: Thank you for your interest in this position. Please DO NOT create an account; it is NOT a required step to submit your application. We look forward to receiving your application.

The Data Foundation is a non-profit organization based in Washington, D.C. that champions the use of open data and evidence-informed public policy to make society better for everyone. As a nonpartisan think tank, we conduct research, collaborative thought leadership, and advocacy programs that advance practical policies for the creation and use of accessible, trustworthy data. Our activities proactively address emerging data-related needs in the country with the goal of devising realistic solutions, accelerating policy coordination, and advancing innovation. 

Position Overview

The Data Foundation’s internship program engages undergraduate and graduate students who contribute to specific projects and organizational activities. The Digital Communications Intern will support the Data Foundation’s communications team across a range of digital channels, helping to advance the organization’s mission and amplify its research and programmatic work to key stakeholders and the broader public.

The intern will gain hands-on, practical experience in nonprofit digital communications, including social media strategy and content creation, podcast and video production, and email marketing. This is an excellent opportunity for a student interested in communications, public policy, data, or technology to develop professional skills in a mission-driven environment.

The intern will report to the Director of Communications and will work closely with the Senior Associate on Communications. The Data Foundation encourages interns to develop and hone skills using generative AI tools that expedite and enhance the quality of their work in line with the organization’s internal policies on the transparent and ethical use of AI.

This internship position may be based in Washington, D.C., or remote in the United States, with expectations for an Eastern Time Zone work schedule in consultation with the intern’s supervisor. The internship runs for 10 weeks with an expectation of approximately 25 hours per week. The Data Foundation is an equal opportunity employer.

Roles and Responsibilities

Social Media

• Draft and schedule engaging posts for the Data Foundation’s social media platforms, including LinkedIn, X (Twitter), and others
• Monitor engagement metrics and assist in identifying trends relevant to the Foundation’s mission and audience
• Research best practices in nonprofit and policy communications to support the refinement of social media strategy

Podcast and Video Production

• Assist with pre-production tasks for the Data Foundation’s podcast, including research, guest coordination, and preparation of questions and topics
• Support audio and video editing using standard production tools
• Help manage episode publishing workflows, including uploading, tagging, and distributing content across platforms
• Assist in developing promotional content such as clips, graphics, and copy to drive audience engagement around new episodes

Email Communications

• Support production of the Data Foundation’s monthly newsletter, including drafting content, compiling highlights, and formatting in the email platform
• Assist with drafting and sending event announcement emails to relevant stakeholder audiences
• Help maintain and update email lists and distribution groups
• Track open rates, click-through rates, and other key metrics to inform future communications efforts

Data Analytics and Performance (Optional)

• Interns with an interest in data analytics may also have the opportunity to:
• Analyze performance data across communications products, including social media, email, and podcast channels
• Identify trends and patterns in audience behavior to inform communications strategy
• Develop recommendations to extend the reach and increase engagement of the Data Foundation’s communications products

Qualifications and Competencies

• Currently enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate degree program, preferably in communications, journalism, public policy, political science, information science, or a related field
• Strong written communication skills with the ability to adapt tone and style for different platforms and audiences
• Familiarity with social media platforms and interest in digital communications strategy
• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively, particularly through written materials
• Ability to multitask across multiple projects in both collaborative and independent settings
• Self-motivated, organized, and able to meet deadlines in a part-time, hybrid or remote environment
• Support for the core values of the Data Foundation

Preferred qualifications include:

• Experience with email marketing platforms (e.g., Mailchimp, Constant Contact, or similar)
• Familiarity with audio or video editing software (e.g., Audacity, Descript, Adobe Audition, Premiere, GarageBand, or similar)
• Interest in evidence-based policy, data policy, technology governance, or related public interest issues
• Experience managing or contributing to organizational social media accounts

Required Education and Experience

Current enrollment in an undergraduate or graduate degree program is required. Academic coursework, extracurricular experience, or prior internships in communications, digital media, journalism, policy, or a related area is preferred.

Location

• Either: Washington, DC, Hybrid Work Arrangement (in-office and remote); or Fully-remote in the United States

Internship Details and Application Process

The Data Foundation offers a stipend of $3,000 (depending on experience and education level) for this 10-week internship, with an expectation of approximately 25 hours per week. Interns receive access to Data Foundation resources and professional development opportunities, as well as recognition on the organization’s website.

Individuals interested in this internship should submit:

• Cover letter explaining your interest in the Data Foundation’s mission and relevant experience
• Resume or CV
• One writing or content sample demonstrating communications skills, such as a social media post, newsletter excerpt, blog article, TikTok video, YouTube Short, or similar

Direct applications to careers@datafoundation.org. Please include “Digital Communications Intern” in the subject line of the email. Applications will be considered on a rolling basis until the position is filled.