Website Editor/Media Relations Internship
Sonoran Institute, Tucson, AZ
Who are we?
Sonoran Institute is one of the West’s leading and most innovative environmental
organizations. Founded in Tucson in 1990, we are the lead organization for on-theground restoration in the Colorado River Delta, are leading the charge for the restoration
of the Santa Cruz River, and are working on innovative approaches to increase renewable
energy generation and promote smart growth. We are celebrating our 25th Anniversary in
2015 and are in the midst of a robust marketing and fundraising effort to support the
launch of our 2040 Vision.
Where would you work?
Position will be located at Sonoran Institute’s downtown headquarters, a modern
workspace in the heart of Tucson’s revitalized core. Excellent access to the modern street
car and secure bike parking and about 2 miles from the University of Arizona Main
Campus.
Would there be perks?
Intern may have opportunity to visit Sonoran Institute’s restoration sites in the Colorado
River Delta during annual planting events (passport would be necessary).
What would you be doing?
The Website Editor/Media Relations Intern will be responsible for delivering and
managing online content (~50% of time) for the organization’s new Word Press
website platform. They will manage the development, delivery and publishing of content
and be a core part of the communications team in helping to develop Sonoran Institute’s
online presence. This will include extensive use of content management systems, writing
and publishing content for the organization’s website, supporting social media activity,
ensuring quality of content, performing user and traffic research as well as some search
engine optimization. Additionally, the intern will be responsible for supporting media
relations efforts (~50% of time). This will include drafting/editing press releases;
building/updating media lists; scheduling press releases; building and maintaining media
relationships; developing and working on media pitches; and, supporting media outreach
efforts as assigned.
Who are we looking for?
Current University of Arizona Communications or Journalism student in Junior or Senior
Year. Intern should have interest in non-profit and environmental
conservation/sustainability. Intern is expected to have strong demonstrated experience
with managing Word Press web platforms. Thinking and writing strategically in order to
hit a defined communications strategy is a must. Intern must be able to write
short/summarized content on current program projects and objectives that will in-turn be
posted to our website. Content must be thought provoking, engaging and creative.
Success will be measured and documented based upon web-traffic improvement through
multiple web-platform integration. Intern also must have experience in blog or blogrelated writing. Intern must have basic experience in building & managing press releases.
Ideally, what qualifications are we looking for in a candidate?
 Previous work experience or experience volunteering at NPO
 Demonstrated experience using Word Press to build/maintian websites highly
preferred
 A strong interest in website management, writing for online publishing and media
relations
 Demonstrated experience managing or writing Press Releases
 A strong interest in non-profit and/or environmental conservation / sustainability
 Impeccable writing, communication and spelling abilities (preferably in business
environment)
 Skilled in online research and analytical skills
 Meticulous attention to detail
 A creative thinker who likes to come up with new and different ideas
 Diligent and professional work ethic and insatiable desire to learn
 Experience on popular websites, such as Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Pinterest,
Instagram and Tumblr
 Intermediate skills in Microsoft Office Suite and Adobe Creative Suite. Knowledge of
HTML is helpful, but not required
 Problem solver/critical thinker
 Ability to perform well under pressure and be very dependable as well as accountable
 Ability to multi-task, keep deadlines, and take initiative
How many hours/week?
TBD – can commit to a minimum of 10/week
Flexible or fixed hours?
Flexible during regular 9-5/M-F depending on student’s class schedule
Who do you contact if you have additional questions?
Seth Cothrun
Director of Corporate Partnerships
520-290-0828 ext. 1110
scothrun@sonoraninstitute.org
Who would I contact at UA to ensure I am eligible for this internship?
Communications:
Kyle Tusing
Associate Professor, Director of Undergraduate Studies
College of Social and Behavioral Sciences
University of Arizona
Communications
Room 201
kjt@email.arizona.edu
Tucson, AZ 85721-0158
520-621-5504
Journalism:
Renée Schafer Horton
Internship Coordinator
School of Journalism
University of Arizona
Louise Foucar Marshall Bldg.
Room 323A
Tucson, AZ 85721-0158
520-626-9219