Orange County, CA

CAREER DESCRIPTION

Position

Video Editing/Communications/Social Media Intern

Social Services Agency

Applications are currently being accepted on a continuous basis until the needs of the department are met. This position may close at any time and applicants are encouraged to apply immediately.

SOCIAL SERVICES AGENCY (SSA)

The Orange County Social Services Agency (SSA) administers Federal, State, and County social services programs that protect children and adults from abuse or neglect; enable the frail and disabled to remain in their homes rather than being institutionalized; move eligible families from dependency to self-sufficiency; and, provide benefits for eligible CalWORKs, CalFresh, Refugee, General Relief, and Medi-Cal recipients.

THE OPPORTUNITY

SSA's Strategic Communications, Legislation, and Policy Team provides resources and information to SSA employees and supports staff in carrying out the agency's mission, vision, and goals. One important function is that of the Public Information Officer, who strategically manages the agency's public image through establishing relationships with and providing information to customers, the media, and community leaders and partners. 

Under direct supervision of the Public Information Officer, interns will assist with writing, proofreading, and editing of content, graphic design and print production materials such as brochures and newsletters. In addition, they will assist with managing the agency's website, visual communications, and social media sites to increase public awareness and education of residents, business partners, media, and other stakeholders.

Specific duties and assignments may include the following;

• Assist with videotaping and video editing,using Adobe Premiere and Apple iMovie software
• Assist with photography of SSA staff and events
• Assist in creating collateral and graphic materials with InDesign, Illustrator, and Photoshop
• Assist in responding to a variety of public information related inquiries and requests
• Assist in the coordination, set up, and presentation during press-related events;
• Participate in meetings, schedule and conduct presentations, assist with day-to-day administrative duties, and other related duties as assigned
• Conduct research, gather information, and draft content of agency events and activities
• Assist in the development and updating of media lists and other databases

EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS

Applicants must be currently enrolled in an accredited college/university majoring in public relations, political science, marketing, communications, journalism, social work, human services, visual arts/design, videography, photography, graphic art/design, or related fields. Recent graduates who completed their degree in one of the above fields of study are also eligible to apply.

SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS

Ideal candidates for this internship will have a basic understanding of the methods and techniques used in public relations, media relations, and community outreach; excellent writing skills including proper use of grammar, spelling, and punctuation; the ability to communicate effectively with the public and staff at all levels of the organization; and maintain a high level of customer service while interfacing with governmental agencies, community groups, and the general public.

Interns must have excellent organizational skills, with the ability to take direction well and complete assignments under tight deadlines. Computer proficiency is required, including familiarity with MS Office applications (e.g., Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook); and experience with PC-based graphic design and video editing software such as Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, iMovie, and Adobe Premier.

TIME COMMITMENT

Up to 20 hours per week for 3 or more months. Flexible hours during normal business hours (Monday - Friday between 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.) are available. Applicants able to schedule the maximum hours/duration listed for the internship typically gain a more in-depth experience.

BENEFITS AVAILABLE TO INTERN

Although this is an unpaid internship that does not lead to permanent employment or include employee benefits, students and recent graduates are offered an excellent opportunity to:

• Develop public relations, social media, and communication skills.
• Acquire experience working in a professional office environment for one of Orange County's largest employers.
• Apply skills and knowledge acquired in an academic setting to the workplace.
• Gain an in-depth understanding of the variety of programs and services offered by SSA that encompass health, child protection, assistance, and self-sufficiency in order to promote the well being of Orange County residents.
• Be a part of a highly visible, dynamic team.

APPLICATION PROCEDURE

Applicants must attach a cover letter, resume, unofficial transcripts, and a writing sample to their application. 

The cover letter is an opportunity for students to describe career and academic goals, to elaborate upon personal and academic accomplishments, and to identify what type of internship experience they are seeking. Learn more about what to include in a cover letter on our website here.

Applications that do not include a cover letter, resume, unofficial transcripts, and a writing sample will not be considered.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Interns may be required to occasionally drive their personal vehicles to offsite meetings/events within Orange County. If interns operate a personal vehicle as part of their assignment, a valid, state-issued driver's license and proof of auto insurance coverage for personal injuries and property damage are required.

REQUIRED BACKGROUND SCREENING/REFERENCE CHECK

Prior to placement, applicants may be asked to submit contact information for reference checks, and a background screening will be conducted that requires a state issued driver's license or ID card and a U.S. Social Security number.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Please see below for important information regarding COVID-19 related recommendations.

Effective April 3, 2023, it is strongly recommended that County employees working in health care settings and correctional facilities follow vaccination and booster guidelines provided by the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Please click here to see the latest guidance for more details.

EMAIL NOTIFICATION

Email is the primary form of notification during the recruitment process. Please ensure your correct email address is included in our application and use only one email account.

NOTE: User accounts are established for one person only and should not be shared with another person. Multiple applications with multiple users may jeopardize your status in the recruitment process for any positions for which you apply.

Candidates will be notified regarding their status as the recruitment proceeds via email through the GovernmentJobs.com site. Please check your email folders, including spam/junk folders, and/or accept emails ending with "governmentjobs.com" and "ocgov.com." If your email address should change, please update your profile at www.governmentjobs.com.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

For additional internship postings, please check our web site at the following link: https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/oc/internships

Click here for additional Frequently Asked Questions.

For specific information pertaining to this recruitment, please contact (714) 834-2555 or CountyofOrangeInterns@ocgov.com 

EEO INFORMATION

Orange County, as an equal employment opportunity employer,

encourages applicants from diverse backgrounds to apply.

This position does not offer any benefits.

If you have any questions, please contact the recruiter for this position. The recruiter should be listed on the Job Posting.

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