Gemini Media Relations/Outreach Intern

General Description of Position:

Gemini Observatory in Hilo, HI is looking for an intern interested in learning all aspects of the public relations field.  The internship will include a full view of media relations, communications, and educational outreach.  The Media Relations/Outreach Intern is also responsible in supporting Gemini’s media relations efforts and in communications with scientific users and the general public.

Essential Functions:

• Work closely with Public Information and Outreach (PIO) mentor to develop and execute a project plan that supports Gemini Observatory’s media relation efforts and/or education and outreach activities.
• Create and implement new creative ideas using both “traditional” and “new” public outreach and media relations schemes to enhance Gemini Observatory’s overall image.
• All AURA employees are responsible for the proper management and control of all AURA property within their work area, whether assigned to them or someone else. This responsibility includes reporting any known missing, stolen, or non-working property in their work area to their supervisor or the AURA Property Officer.
• Assist with general media relations and outreach activities as directed.
• Write and edit media resource materials (press releases, social media, “webfeatures”) and/or educational content for students, teachers and the public.

Other Functions:
• Create a final report at the conclusion of internship to reflect your overall experience to present to PIO Manager.
• Presentations about internship experience at staff/professional meetings/conferences.
• Other duties as assigned

Required Education/Experience/Skills/Abilities:

• Must be currently enrolled in an accredited degree program, demonstrating a minimum of 3.0 average, in areas such as:

-Astronomy/Astrophysics
-Science/Technology Journalism
-Communications (emphasis on science/technology)
-Media Relations (emphasis on science/technology and new-media)
- Education (with focus on physical science discipline)

• Other related areas of interest (i.e. education/outreach) will be considered but candidate must demonstrate a strong interest in pursuing a career in science/technology communications with preference given to candidates with experience and education in astronomy or directly related field.
• Candidates are required to demonstrate proficiency in written communications (samples will be required in application process), common office software.
• Ideal candidate is interested in pursuing a career in science journalism, informal science education or a related science journalism/education field.

Physical Demands:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Ability to work at high-altitude (occasionally) on summit area of Maunakea.
• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel and talk or hear.
• The employee is occasionally required to stand; walk; reach with hands and arms and stoop; kneel; crouch; or crawl.
• The employee must regularly lift and /or move up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.
• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.
• Must possess - sufficient mobility, strength, or dexterity in both arms and hands and both legs to a) reach upward, sideways, downward to work with paper files; b) sufficient mobility and dexterity to utilize computer systems, fax machines, copiers, and other office machines.
• Must possess – 1) ability to read and understand instructions, drawings, safety guides, and other written materials necessary to perform job; 2) sufficient visual capacity to
perform the applicable functions without assistance of visual aids other than eye contacts or eye glasses; 3) sufficient spoken aural capacity to hear and understand instructions, warning bells, fire alarms, or shouted instructions without assistance of auditory aids other than a hearing aid; and 4) ability to impart information orally so that others understand and can respond appropriately