Public Relations Intern

SUMMARY OF PRINCIPAL & MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES: Visit Corpus Christi is looking for an public relations intern to support the Communications team. The Public Relations Intern will work in a fast-paced environment under the Director of Communications, assisting with familiarization tour coordination, supporting the creation and upkeep of CRM and CMS databases, monitoring and logging media coverage, and helping coordinate and prepare PR inventory and gifting. Reporting directly to the Director of Communications, the intern will gain valuable, hands-on insight into the daily operations and implementation of communications and public relations foundational strategies within the Corpus Christi travel and tourism industry. 

CLASSIFICATION:  Part-Time, Temporary, Internship: 20 hours per week, 16-week term 

This position is open to eligible students participating in the Community Service Work Study Program through Texas A&M University – Corpus Christi. The Institution shall pay the students 100% of the compensation for work performed and the required State and Federal Income Tax and Social Security, if applicable.  

PRINCIPAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES (Essential Functions): 

Assist with coordination and itinerary development for familiarization (FAM) tours under the direction of the Communications team. 

Support the creation and upkeep of accounts in the media CRM system. 

Assist with creating and maintaining accounts in the media CMS system. 

Submit and update PR and Communications CRM traces in coordination with the Communications team. 

Input and update relevant information in the media CMS as directed. 

Monitor, collect, and log media coverage for reporting purposes. 

Help coordinating PR inventory and prepare gifting packages as assigned. 

Other Functions 

Any additional duties as assigned. 

JOB SPECIFICATIONS: 

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (Requirements are representative of minimum levels of knowledge, skills, and/or abilities): 

Detail oriented and highly organized 

Exhibit exceptional customer service and interpersonal skills 

Critical thinking and problem-solving skills 

Excellent verbal and written communication skills 

Self-motivated with high energy and great attitude 

Interest in the tourism industry 

Knowledge of the CRM and CMS Simpleview platform is not required and will be taught to qualified candidates 

Communication, Public Relations, and/or related field degree plan preferred  

Fluent in both English and Spanish preferred 

You will gain experience in: 

Experience in supporting and coordinating familiarization tours and media events  

Learn to strategically pitch articles, partnerships, and media materials to journalists and publications 

Gain understanding on day-to-day public relations strategy development within the travel industry  

Acquire skills in coordinating logistics for brand exposure at tradeshows and missions 

Develop proficiency in international tourism PR tactics  

Computer Software:  

Microsoft Office (Excel/Word/Outlook/Team Skills required)  

Canva  

Act-On (Email Platform)  

Crowdriff (Photo Management)  

Basecamp  

Travefy 

Equipment to be Used and Operated:  

Telephone; Computer; Copy machine; Postage machine; and Scanner   

Physical Requirements  

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is required to sit for extended periods of time.  Shall be able to apply 20 lbs. of force frequently to lift, carry, push, pull, or otherwise move objects.  Must be able to view computer screen for extended period of time with clear, close-up vision.  

Mental/Emotional Requirements  

Must be able to work in a fast-paced and customer service-oriented environment; to perform duties under pressure and meet deadlines in a timely manner; to work as part of a team as well as to complete assignments independently; to take instructions from supervisors; to exercise problem-solving skills; and to interact with co-workers, supervisors, customers, and the public in a professional and pleasant manner.  

Safety Responsibilities  

Must learn and comply with all organization safety rules; must always use appropriate safety equipment; must immediately report all unsafe conditions to supervisors; must be familiar with all safety features or equipment, machinery, or materials encompassed by job duties; and must check with supervisor if there is a question as to the safe procedure to be used for any job function.  

Additional Requirements:  

Employees are required to reside within the defined Corpus Christi Metropolitan Statistical Area.   

Employees must fulfill the performance standards of this position and comply with the policies, rules, and procedures of the organization, including those set out in the Employee Handbook or otherwise communicated (verbally or in writing) to employees.  

General Statement:  

Visit Corpus Christi offers a hybrid work environment with a level of flexibility based on job function and needs of the day. This job description is intended to describe the position's general nature and work responsibilities.  This job description and the duties of this position are subject to change, modification, and addition as deemed necessary by the organization.  Employees must comply with supervisory instructions and perform other job duties, responsibilities, and assignments requested by supervisors, managers, or other organization officials. The job responsibilities of this position may include cross-training in other functions or positions to ensure satisfactory operation of the department or work area.  

This job description does not constitute an employment contract between the organization and any employee.