Community Engagement Intern

Community Engagement Intern

As a Community Engagement intern, you will assist with the development and maintenance of HCP's Community Engagement programs by conducting research in art and museum education, developing educational materials, and assisting with the facilitation of educational programs at HCP and in the community at events or partnering organizations. This position is ideal for someone embarking on a career in Art Education, Museum Education, Arts Administration, and Community Arts.

As an intern, your role may include some or all of the following responsibilities:

• Research potential opportunities for Community Engagement
• Research existing photography-based community education curricula
• Research museum education theories
• Organize and maintain Community Engagement supplies
• Assist with local community fairs and HCP community events
• Develop curricula for various community education programming
• Develop specific learning materials for current and upcoming exhibitions
• Assist Director of Community Engagement with developing guided tour content for current and upcoming exhibitions
• Research potential groups for guided tours
• Lead exhibition tours to school groups
• Assist with designing and distributing promotional materials for various Community Engagement programs
• Assist Community Engagement Manager and Teaching Artists with community programs
• Share the responsibility with other interns and staff of monitoring the gallery during open hours

Internship Program

The Houston Center for Photography seeks creative individuals interested in photography, visual arts, and nonprofit administration for internship opportunities. Offered year-round, internships at HCP provide a platform for undergraduate, graduate students, and recent graduates to gain practical, hands-on experience in our community engagement, exhibitions, education, and operations departments. HCP's mission is to promote inquiry about photography and related media through education, exhibitions, publications, fellowship programs, and community collaboration. Our hope is to match each intern with duties that match their interests and learning goals.

Qualifications for an Internship at HCP

• Availability to commit a minimum of 8 hours per week for a 3-month term; a commitment of 15-20 hours per week is preferred
• A passion for photography, visual arts, and/or contemporary culture is essential
• Previous work experience is a plus, but not required, provided the candidate meets strongly all other qualifications
• Pursuing studies in college at the undergraduate or graduate levels, or a recent graduate
• Strong communication (written and verbal) and interpersonal skills, with ability to organize, and manage competing priorities
• Maintain a friendly and approachable style with an emphasis on ensuring positive visitor experiences
• Dedicated and reliable, with a proactive attitude and the ability to collaborate effectively as part of a team
• Ability to work independently and exercise sound judgment; with require minimal supervision
• Working knowledge of the Google Suite (or Microsoft Suite) is required, with familiarity of the other being a plus
• Knowledge and experience with Adobe Suite (Lightroom, Photoshop, InDesign, Premiere) is a strong plus
• Experience with website platforms like WordPress and Squarespace is highly desirable
• A valid driver's license and reliable transportation for occasional errands are preferred, but not required

Benefits

HCP internships offer valuable benefits to support your artistic and professional growth. Interns receive a $300 honorarium upon completion of their internship, along with a complimentary one-year HCP membership that includes access to discounted classes, member-only events, and exhibition opportunities. Interns are also awarded up to $1,000 in scholarships to take two HCP education courses and/or workshops within one year. Free access to HCP's Digital Lab and/or Lighting Studio is included, featuring professional-grade equipment and software—training is available for those new to the lab. Interns may also have the opportunity to receive academic course credit for their internship, if approved by their college or university. Additionally, interns may schedule a personalized 2-hour "Path to Success" consultation focused on academic or artistic planning with an HCP staff member with academic teaching experience, an experienced photographer, a working artist, or an art professional.

Internship Schedule

The internship term is 3 months and requires a firm commitment of a minimum of 8 hours per week. Candidates committing at least 15 hours per week will be prioritized during the selection process. While scheduling is flexible during standard business hours (M–F, 10 am–6 pm), candidates are also asked to be available for one or more special HCP events, which are held evenings and weekends.

• Fall Internships take place September–December. The deadline for applying is July 15th.
• Summer internships take place June–August. The deadline for applying is March 15th.
• Spring Internships take place January–May. The deadline for applying is November 15th.

Application Requirements

The application must contain a resume, a cover letter, and three references. If you are applying for the Marketing Intern position, there is an option to submit sample work.