Social Media & Communications Intern – Education and Outreach - Alabama Water Institute - 531098

Pay Grade/Pay Range: $12.00/hour

Department/Organization: 750501- Alabama Water Institute

Normal Work Schedule: Flexible

Job Summary: The Social Media and Communications Intern will support the Education and Outreach team at the Alabama Water Institute (AWI) at The University of Alabama by managing and developing content for the Education and Outreach Instagram account. The intern will help highlight educational programs, student experiences, K–12 STEM initiatives, research opportunities, workforce development activities, and community engagement efforts. Responsibilities include planning a content calendar, creating and scheduling posts, developing graphics and short-form videos, capturing photos and videos at events, and monitoring audience engagement. Working under the guidance of the Education and Outreach team, the intern will help expand the visibility of AWI's educational initiatives, increase awareness of opportunities in water science and related STEM fields, and connect students and the broader community with AWI's programs and resources.

Required Minimum Qualifications: Currently enrolled as an undergraduate student at The University of Alabama, preferably in communications, public relations, marketing, journalism, education, digital media, or a related field. Experience with content creation and management of Instagram and social media platforms. Strong written communication, proofreading, and organizational skills. Ability to work independently, meet deadlines, and collaborate with the Education and Outreach team. Interest in science communication, STEM education, water research, or community outreach is preferred.

Skills and Knowledge: Knowledge of Instagram content creation, including posts, Stories, Reels, and captions. Basic graphic design and video editing skills using tools such as Canva, Adobe Express, or similar platforms. Ability to develop engaging, audience-appropriate content that communicates educational programs, research, events, and student opportunities. Understanding of social media engagement strategies, trends, hashtags, and audience growth. Strong attention to detail and the ability to maintain a consistent brand voice and visual identity. Ability to photograph or record events, activities, and program participants when appropriate. Basic knowledge of social media analytics and the ability to track engagement, reach, and follower growth. Professionalism when communicating with students, faculty, researchers, and community partners.

Enrollment Requirements: Applicants must meet enrollment requirements to be eligible for on-campus student employment. Applicants must be enrolled in a UA degree program and meet minimum credit hour requirements during the academic year: Undergraduate Students must be registered for at least 6 credit hours during fall/spring semesters; Graduate Students must be registered for at least 4.5 credit hours during fall/spring semesters; International Students must be registered full-time (Undergraduate = 12 credit hours, Graduate = 9 credit hours) during fall/spring semesters. Enrollment requirements must be maintained for the duration of on-campus employment. Individual hiring departments and programs may also have additional eligibility requirements for employment.

Background Investigation Statement: Prior to hiring, the final candidate(s) must successfully pass a pre-employment background investigation and information obtained from social media and other internet sources. A prior conviction reported as a result of the background investigation DOES NOT automatically disqualify a candidate from consideration for this position. A candidate with a prior conviction or negative behavioral red flags will receive an individualized review of the prior conviction or negative behavioral red flags before a hiring decision is made.

Equal Employment Opportunity: The University of Alabama is an Equal Employment/Equal Educational Opportunity Institution. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment or volunteer status without regard to any legally protected basis and will not be discriminated against because of their protected status. Applicants and employees of this institution are protected under Federal law from discrimination on several bases. More information is available in the EEOC’s Know Your Rights: Workplace discrimination is illegal poster.

The University of Alabama affirms its longstanding commitment to institutional neutrality, free speech, and academic freedom.