Internship, Rails to Trails Magazine, Washington, D.C. 
- Posted 07/01/2009; Open Until Filled

View All Job Postings

About Our Internship Program
Rails-to-Trails Conservancy (RTC) is the nation's leading advocate for trails and the only national organization devoted to converting unused railroad lines into multi-use trails. RTC is dedicated to connecting people and communities by creating a nationwide network of public trails. With headquarters in Washington, D.C., and offices in California, Florida, Pennsylvania and Ohio, RTC is a nonprofit public charity carrying out a program of technical assistance and public education. RTC is looking for interns interested in working on environmental and public policy issues. Interns will provide assistance to the program, development, communications and the administrative department. Job assignments will consist of professional and administrative support. Interns will participate as full-time staff members, including attending staff meetings, retreats and social gatherings. Hours are flexible to accommodate class schedule(s) or other commitments. Generally hours are four days a week from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. or 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Summary of this Opportunity
Rails-to-Trails Conservancy is now seeking a Magazine Intern with excellent research, writing and communication skills to support the organization's quarterly magazine, Rails to Trails. Learn and participate in the life cycle of a magazine: from developing overall themes and story generation, to layout and production. Interact with professional design and production vendors, while being mentored by our experienced magazine staff.

The intern's responsibilities will include, but are not limited to: researching trail contacts and recent developments; digging up story ideas; photo collection; assisting with interviewing, researching and writing for specific magazine departments; and other administrative tasks involved in the production of the Fall 2008 issue. Some Web work may be involved, depending on level of interest or experience.

Benefits
Positions are generally unpaid, though interns will enjoy the benefits of working in downtown Washington, D.C., in the casual but professional RTC National Office. Easily accessible by metro's red, orange and blue lines, the office is located in the heart of the West End, nearly equidistant between the Foggy Bottom and Dupont Circle stations. Nearby cultural attractions include the Smithsonian, historical monuments, and the trendy Dupont Circle and Adams Morgan neighborhoods.

To Qualify for this Position
A Junior or Senior currently in undergraduate study (graduate students also encouraged to apply) seeking a degree in journalism, communications, creative writing, public relations, magazine development or other writing-intensive field; strong research abilities; interest in outdoor recreation and environmental issues; self-motivated; proficiency with AP style (will be tested); excellent oral, written, proofreading and interpersonal skills; high level of professionalism to work independently and as a team player; ability to learn quickly and continuously; news writing experience a plus, and selected candidates will submit a writing sample.

RTC operates off a PC/Microsoft Office platform, and experience in Word, Excel and Outlook is helpful. Applicants should be task-oriented, highly organized and possess a strong interest in environmental issues or related studies including trail development.

To Apply
Interested candidates should send a cover letter and resume indicating a "Magazine Internship" preference to:
 
Attn: Elton A. Clark
Human Resource Manager
Rails-to-Trails Conservancy
The Duke Ellington Building
2121 Ward Court, NW - 5th Floor
Washington, DC 20037
Phone: 202.974.5153
E-mail: elton@railstotrails.org
Fax: 202.223.9257
 
RTC is an equal opportunity employer. Women and minorities are encouraged to apply.