Media Relations Intern

Job Description

Description

Who We Are:

The Nature Conservancy’s mission is to protect the lands and waters upon which all life depends. As a science-based organization, we create innovative, on-the-ground solutions to our world’s toughest challenges so that we can create a world in which people and nature thrive. We’re rooted in our mission and guided by our values, which include respect for all people, communities, and cultures. Whether it’s career development, flexible schedules, or a rewarding mission, there’s many reasons to love life inside TNC. Want a better insight to TNC? Check out our TNC Talent playlist on YouTube to hear stories from staff, our Instagram, TikTok or visit Glassdoor.

One goal is to cultivate an inclusive work environment so that all our colleagues around the globe feel a sense of belonging and that their unique contributions to our mission are valued. In addition to the requirements in our job postings, we recognize that people come with talent and experiences outside of a job and consider each applicant’s unique experience. Please apply – we’d love to hear from you. To quote a popular saying at TNC, “you’ll join for the mission, and stay for the people.

We’re Looking for You:

The Midwest Media Relations team is seeking a highly organized and detail-oriented intern to support the development of comprehensive media contact lists across the Midwest Division, specifically Illinois, Wisconsin, Michigan and Ohio. This 10-week paid position is an excellent hands-on opportunity for an undergraduate student or recent grad interested in public relations, journalism, communications or media strategy to gain practical experience in media research and outreach preparation.

What We Can Achieve Together:

The intern will be responsible for organizing information in databases; keeping track of media outlets and contacts across Illinois, Wisconsin, Michigan and Ohio, and identifying reporters, editors, producers and freelancers relevant to our conservation work who would be good targets for story pitching in the Midwest. The Media Relations intern will be working with a three-person team, including two Media Relations Managers and the Midwest Director of Marketing and Communications.

RESPONSIBILITIES & SCOPE

• Research and compile targeted media contact lists for print, digital, broadcast, and radio outlets across four Midwest states.
• Identify reporters, editors, producers, freelancers and influencers relevant to our priority topics and pitches.
• Verify and update existing contact information using approved databases, newsroom websites and social platforms.
• Organize contacts into structured, easy-to-navigate spreadsheets or CRM systems.
• Track emerging media outlets, new reporters on beats and shifts in newsroom structures.
• Prepare summaries or insights on media landscape trends across the region.
• Support the Midwest Media Relations team with additional administrative and research tasks as needed.

What You’ll Bring:

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• HS Diploma or equivalent. Currently enrolled in an undergraduate program of communications, marketing, or related field, or a recent graduate with a degree in one of these or a related field.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• Experience in research, writing, and editing
• Close attention to detail
• Access to a reliable internet connection

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Currently pursuing or recently graduated with an undergraduate degree in Public Relations, Communications, Journalism, Marketing or a related field. Interest or background in conservation is a plus.
• Midwest location preferred but not required.
• Strong research and online sleuthing skills.
• Excellent attention to detail and ability to maintain accuracy with large amounts of information.
• Familiarity with media outlets and basic understanding of how journalism works.
• Experience with media databases (Meltwater, Cision, Muck Rack, etc.) is a plus but not required.

ADDITIONAL JOB INFORMATION

This is a full-time, home-based, temporary internship position with a 10-week term from June 1 to August 7, 2026.

Salary Information:

The pay for a candidate selected for this position is $17.00 per hour. This rate only applies to candidates whose country of employment is the USA. Please note countries outside the USA would have a different pay range in the local currency based on the local labor market, and not tied to USA pay or ranges. Your geographic location will be confirmed during the recruitment.

Applications will be received until this position is filled.