The Fall 2009 semester is underway. We are now accepting applications for the Winter/Spring 2010 semester. The application deadline for the Winter/Spring 2010 semester is November 15, 2009.

To learn more about what interns do at NPR, visit the Intern Edition site produced by the most recent group.

Internship Program Information

NPR offers internships at its national headquarters in Washington, D.C., and at our NPR West office in Culver City, CA. The internship program is designed to provide students and recent graduates with an opportunity to learn about broadcasting and the supporting areas of NPR.

Eligibility:  A candidate must be a graduate student, an undergraduate student, or have graduated from college within twelve months of beginning the internship. Internship applicants must be authorized to work in the United States.  

General Information:  Interns are expected to work between 20 and 40 hours a week during an 8-to-10 week internship period. Internships are offered during the summer, fall, and winter/spring semesters. Interns may receive academic credit if an agreement is made between the NPR Human Resources Division and the intern's college or university. All interns are subject to the applicable NPR employee rules, including its Employment Dispute Resolution Policy.

Application Procedures:  Candidates must complete an internship application form (you will need the free Adobe Acrobat Reader to view and print this file) and submit it with a cover letter and resume. Some internship positions require additional application items, such as a writing sample. All application items must be submitted as a complete package. Incomplete applications will not be reviewed.

Application Deadlines: For the summer program, applications must be postmarked by February 15; for the fall program, applications must be postmarked by July 15; and for the winter/spring program, applications must be postmarked by November 15.

Please note: Due to the large volume of applications, we are unable to notify applicants who are not selected for internships.

Mail or fax applications to:

                         National Public Radio
                         Human Resources Department
                         635 Massachusetts Avenue, NW 
                         Washington, DC  20001
                         Fax - (202) 513-3047

Please direct your questions and concerns to internship@npr.org.

Internship Opportunities

Following is a list of internship positions available at NPR. The exact internships offered vary from semester to semester. On the application form, applicants should indicate all internships they are interested in.

All Things Considered (Typically offered all three semesters)
Conducts research for daily stories and long-term projects; books interviews; retrieves archival tape; attends daily editorial meeting; and helps get the program on the air, which includes performing routine administrative tasks. He/she should have an interest in the news and be prepared to offer story ideas. A liberal arts background - an individual majoring in religion, history, art, etc. is preferred. In addition to the regular application items, candidates must submit a writing sample.

All Things Considered, Opinions (Typically offered all three semesters)
Works with All Things Considered on commentaries and opinions; assists with writing headlines and building Web pages. The ideal candidate is a news junkie with a flair for writing and the arts whose first instinct is to go to the opinion pages and read op-eds and essays. He/she should have good news judgment, and writing experience. Experience on a school newspaper is very helpful, op-ed page experience even better.

All Songs Considered (Typically offered all three semesters)
Helps produce Second Stage (previously called OpenMic) series using html, NPR’s content Management System, and Photoshop; auditions CD for possible review; contacts labels for CD acquisition; acts as liaison with Second Stage artists; helps secure clearances for use of material on site; researches and fact checks for artist reviews.  Required:  Strong writing skills; love of music; working knowledge of HTML; working knowledge of Photoshop.  Preferred:  experience in music-related field, for example:  music degree or music study, radio DJ, music journalism or experience writing music reviews.

Arts & Information Desk Internship: (Typically offered all three semesters)
Sets-up interviews; greets and escorts interview guests; logs tape; conducts story research for reporters and editors and participates in story production; sorts mail; answers phone; assists with development and maintenance of obituary project sound files; and participates in staff meetings and projects as required. Candidates should be interested in the arts, journalism, digital technology, history and other areas of cultural expression. Strong research skills, computer literacy, and knowledge of NPR programming preferred. In addition to the regular application items, candidates must submit a writing sample.

Audience Insight and Research Internship: (Typically offered all three semesters)
Interested in first-hand exposure to media research and strategy?  Consider an internship with our team, which acts as an internal research consultant to all NPR departments.  Interns work closely with staff from across the organization to bring audience insights into the center of decision making.  Tasks include analyzing listener habits and demographics, working with surveys, answering research requests from employees, and becoming familiar with databases like Arbitron and Nielsen.  A keen ability to synthesize and present information (written and graphic) is important.  Experience with survey work and research is a plus.

Audio Engineering Internship: (Typically offered in the Summer semester)
Shadows a Broadcast/Recording Technician to learn the operation of the record centrals and broadcast studios. Has the opportunity for hands-on practice on the technical equipment. Does simple feed recordings and mixes. Candidates with technical experience and/or background preferred.

Communications/ Marketing and Branding: (Typically offered all three semesters)
Assists in the planning and development of activities and materials designed to increase awareness of NPR stations and NPR programming among the widest possible audience and strengthen the image of NPR and its Member stations as leaders in the media industry and their communities.  The intern will support the department in its work to strengthen station relations by creating materials (articles, press releases, advertisement, e-marketing content, etc.) for use in efforts to raise awareness, promoting listening, and increase revenue to Member stations; and responding to Member Station request for assistance and materials.  Communications, marketing, or public relations major preferred.  Experience using Microsoft Word, the Internet and general computer proficiency is required; previous office experience is a plus.  Strong writing skills are required.  In addition to the regular application items, candidates must submit a writing sample.

Communications/Creative Design Internship: (Typically offered all three semesters)
Works on graphic and web projects in conjunction with Creative Services staff; actively participates in creative and production process, organizes and maintains print and electronic files for the group; and assists in day-to-day administrative tasks. Graphic or Publication Design major needed. Experience using both Mac and PC platforms preferred. Solid writing, communications, and organizational skills required.

Communications/Media Relations Internship: (Typically offered all three semesters)
Become a member of NPR's Media Relations team, and take part in the exciting and fast-paced work of media and publicity. As an intern in the Media Relations Department, you will learn about pitching print and broadcast journalists, developing publicity plans and writing press releases.  The media relations intern will gain valuable experience by assisting in the publicity of NPR programs, personalities and breaking news. The intern will actively participate in researching media contacts, maintaining press lists and databases, compiling press kits and writing press releases and media advisories.  Journalism, Communications, Public Relations or Marketing major preferred; experience using Microsoft Word, the Internet and general computer proficiency is required. Strong writing skills are required. Previous office experience is a plus. In addition to the regular application items, candidates must submit a writing sample that clearly demonstrates creative writing skills.

Corporate Business Development: (Typically offered in the Spring and Summer semesters)
NPR's Business Development explores potential new revenue streams, analyzes potential investments, and internal business development opportunities to (1) strengthen NPR's existing businesses (2) maintain an interest in the developing new media and broadband environment and (3) strengthen and extend the educational mission of Public Radio. The position offers unique exposure to both the traditional media industry as well as the developing broadband and new media environment. Responsibilities include assisting in analyzing new media markets, evaluating business plans and opportunities, developing project plans, financial modeling and performing due diligence activities. The position works closely with each of NPR's Divisions to identify and facilitate new business development. The ideal candidate will be a current MBA student, possess an interest in and aptitude for NPR's core broadcasting and new media businesses, the ability to work independently and represent NPR with potential partners, the ability to perform strategic analysis of new media opportunities, experience and interest in technology, strong financial analysis skills, and strong written and oral communication skills.

Corporate Sponsorship Internship: (Typically offered all three semesters)
Provides general support to Corporate Sponsorship Department. Helps update, assemble, and send out promotional and effectiveness materials to sponsorship representatives and sponsors; reviews underwriting credit affidavits from member stations and prepares discrepancy reports; and monitors member stations online for compliance with NPR sponsorship announcements and schedules. Requires proficiency with standard personal and office computing programs (knowledge of PowerPoint a plus), ability to perform tasks accurately under deadlines, excellent written and verbal communication skills, and organizational skills.

Development Internship: (Typically offered all three semesters)
Join NPR’s growing Development team and gain valuable experience in fundraising, communications, and event planning. The intern supports the Development team in its overall fundraising efforts and plays an integral role in planning and implementing events at NPR's headquarters, including NPR's Weekend in Washington—a three-day event featuring guest speakers and NPR hosts and correspondents. The intern will have opportunities to work in major gifts, foundation and grants, event management, and board relations. Other responsibilities include a variety of writing assignments, research, office organization, and database management. Intern must be flexible, creative, and have the ability to manage projects independently.  Interest in public radio and fundraising preferred.

Digital Media, Arts & Entertainment Editorial Internship: (Typically offered all three semesters)
Edits and produces Web and podcast content for Books, Movies and other Arts sections on NPR.org. Assists with writing and editing news and feature coverage; assists in building Web pages and multimedia elements using HTML and tools such as Photoshop, Home site, Soundslides amd Sound Forge; researches stories and performs administrative tasks.  Required: demonstrated record of creative accomplishment; demonstrated passion for books, movies and the arts generally; demonstrated excellence in writing and editing; creativity and ability to be flexible; ability to work quickly, accurately and under deadline. Preferred: news writing and editing strongly preferred; experience with Web or multimedia production.

Digital Media, Marketing Internship: (Typically offered in the Summer semester only)
The Digital Media, Marketing intern will focus on marketing the NPR Shop and NPR products. The ideal candidate will be a creative, independent person, preferably an MBA candidate, who can help to craft and implement our holiday marketing push. This person will work in conjunction with Creative Services and other departments as needed with a goal of getting mainstream press attention for our Shop and products for the next holiday season. They will be responsible for identifying avenues and strategies which will best serve to promote NPR products especially during the critical holiday season, writing copy, making contacts, and following through to ensure marketing and promotional opportunities will come to fruition. They will also support other efforts within the group as needed.

Digital Media, Picture and Multimedia Internship: (Typically offered all three semesters)
Under the supervision and direction of NPR Picture and Multimedia editor, assists with editing photos for news and feature coverage on NPR.org. Works with the continuous news desk and digital news team to assist with visual story development, including editing of staff and freelance photos, preparation of photos for the website, and building of photo and audio galleries. Experience needed in online photo and audio editing. Must have excellent writing, researching and editing skills, and ability to work quickly, accurately and under deadline. Flexibility and creativity needed. Still and video shooting skills a plus, although this is primarily an editing internship. Please send a list of links or a CD of multimedia projects if available.

Digital Media, Technical Internship: (Typically offered all three semesters)
Under the supervision and direction of NPR Online technical staff members, Intern will gain valuable experience building, producing, and supporting the general operations of a Web site: assisting in building Web pages; encoding audio for online use; performing routine administrative tasks; documenting systems and applications; developing dynamic page templates; testing Web-enabled applications; and researching potential technical solutions. The ideal candidate will possess a solid, working knowledge of and experience using HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and some experience with relational databases. Experience with JSP, JHTML, DHTML, XHTML, XML, PHP, Photoshop, HomeSite, Sound Forge, UNIX, Linux and/or UML very helpful but not required. Proficiency in Microsoft Visio, as well as solid writing, communication, and organizational skills required. Ability to work quickly and accurately under deadline is key. The ideal candidate will be interested in Web application development and eager to discover creative solutions to technical challenges. Preferred courses of study include: Computer Science, Computer Architecture, Information Architecture, Systems Architecture, Systems Engineering, and/or Audio Engineering.

Digital News, Editorial Internship: (Typically offered all three semesters)
Under the supervision and direction of NPR.org editorial and production staff members, the intern assists with writing, researching, and updating news and feature coverage on the NPR Web site; assists in building Web pages using HTML and the content management system, as well as tools such as Photoshop, HomeSite, Sound Forge, and the FTP client; and performs routine administrative tasks. Interest and knowledge in current events and the Web required. Experience preferred in writing and reporting, and in Web production. Must have excellent writing, researching and editing skills, and ability to work quickly, accurately and under deadline pressure. Flexibility and creativity a plus.

Executive Producer, Intern Edition Internship: (Typically offered all three semesters)
Manages Intern Edition (student/intern) staff activities and production of Intern Edition audio program. Arranges and conducts interviews of candidates for Intern Edition senior staff positions; leads all Intern Edition staff meetings; oversees story assignment process; collaborates with Senior Editor in scheduling and enforcing deadlines; assists with reporting, writing, editing and music selections for the program; ensures a finished product (Intern Edition radio show) that is completed on deadline; works with "NextGen" Project Manager in resolving logistical issues and other conflicts; and provides logistical support to Intern Edition Project Manager and NPR Professional Staff related to training interns for Intern Edition job duties. Senior level undergraduate or graduate student with degree in journalism or broadcast journalism; project management experience helpful; excellent and demonstrated writing and editing skills and verbal communication skills; strong organizational, leadership and interpersonal skills; resourceful and able to work well within a team as well as independently. In addition to the regular application items, candidates must submit a journalism-related work sample.

Finance Internship - Accounting: (Typically offered all three semesters)
Typically the intern will split their time in the General Ledger, Accounts Receivable, Accounts Payable and Payroll departments; assist with data entry, bank deposits, filing of check copies, invoices and time sheets and researching customer inquiries; experience in Microsoft Excel and general computer proficiency is required and previous office experience is a plus

Finance Internship - Treasury: (Typically offered in the Summer semester)
The NPR Treasury office has a number of interesting activities scheduled for the summer 2008, including its annual risk management assessment, ongoing investment of its portfolio of nearly $400 million, and financing of its operations and capital projects.  For the summer of 2008, the intern will assist in the compilation and preparation of corporate finance documents necessary to borrow funds for the New Headquarters Project.  Knowledge of the bond markets and corporate finance a plus; experience in Microsoft Excel and general computer proficiency is required.

Human Resources Internship: (Typically offered all three semesters)
Assists the Staffing Office with writing weekly Employment Opportunities bulletin; processing resumes; and updating information in HRIS. Performs special projects under the direction of a staff member; assists with updating the Human Resources Intranet web site; works with staff of Benefits, Training and Employee Relations to perform special projects. Human Resources major preferred; experience using PC and Microsoft Office software preferred; solid writing, communications, and organizational skills required.

Information Technology Internship: (Typically offered all three semesters)
Under supervision, provide technical analysis, programming and support to users to include design, development, modification, problem resolution and short-term planning to meet business objectives. Creates Infopath forms to interact with back-end databases and Sharepoint portal server. Education requirement is nearing completion of sophomore year of Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science, Information Systems and Technology, or Computer Engineering Program; One year of related work experience desired; strong interpersonal skills; ability to work independently or as a member of a team; flexibility and adaptability to multiple changing priorities and familiarity with PCs running Windows 2000, MS Office, SQL, Visual Basic and relational database management concepts is necessary.

Librarian Internships (Archivist, Broadcast, Music, Reference):

 - Archivist Internship:  (Typically offered all three semesters)
Please note: This internship is located at the University of Maryland campus.
The Archive intern will perform indexing, cataloging and audio research of NPR cultural programming located at the University of Maryland.  NPR seeks intern candidates who are interested in learning to index audio content, archive audio content, and assist with ongoing projects. Candidates should have strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work independently and as part of a team.  Candidates with demonstrated interest in archiving, audio resources and/or metadata will be given top consideration.  One year of related work experience desired.  Familiarity with Windows 2000, MS Office, SQL, Visual Basic and relational database management a plus. Candidates must be a library school student or recent graduate who is interested in a career in news libraries, sound cataloging, or audio archives.

- Broadcast Library Internship: (Typically offered all three semesters)
The NPR Broadcast Library supports the audio research needs of NPR's journalists, and maintains NPR's archive. Librarians perform deadline audio research for all NPR programs and divisions, and index program and other audio materials. The NPR Broadcast Library seeks intern candidates who are interested in learning to provide audio reference, index audio content, provide user education, and assist with ongoing projects. Interns participate in library meetings and other professional activities, and are able to work well independently. Candidates with demonstrated interest in audio resources and/or metadata will be given top consideration. Experience with online database searching is a plus. Candidates must be a library school student or recent graduate who is interested in a career in news libraries, sound cataloging, or audio archives.

- Music Library Internship: (Typically offered all three semesters)
NPR's use of music is a hallmark of its programming. The NPR Music Library provides production and reference services for NPR programs and staff and is involved with music use for NPR's daily broadcast shows, on-air promotion campaigns and special projects. After learning a database, interns will index music CDs into NPR's music collection. Opportunities to assist with music reference, database quality control and collection development will be available. Candidates should be computer literate, have knowledge and/or interest in music (any type), be detail oriented and available to work flexible hours. Candidate must be a library school student interested in a career in music libraries or sound cataloging.

- Music Archive Project Internship: (Typically offered all three semesters)
The Music Archive Project is a pilot program undertaken by the NPR Library to provide access to the raw audio archives of cultural programming since the 1970s, including shows like Anthem, Jazz Profiles, Making the Music, and Wade in the Water. Although this period in traditional libraries is not considered as historical, this audio material created by NPR has unique origin and cannot be found in any other library or archive. The bulk of these materials are raw recordings made by renowned musicians who were interviewed by NPR hosts. Most of them are deceased but their musical legacies linger now more than ever. Once these unique pieces are identified, this content will be repurposed and reproduced for the Web (npr.org/music).
 NPR seeks an intern to catalog unique archival audio material on a variety of formats, including DAT, reel, cassette, and CD. Responsibilities include cataloging audio based on set standards, reformatting audio for use online, creating outlines of content, recommending material for use online, and rehousing paper materials. Candidates should be independent and willing to work alone, have experience with Microsoft Access or other database/cataloging software, and be familiar with appropriate handling of archival materials. Candidates with knowledge of audio formats and music (especially jazz and classical) will be given top priority. Candidates must be a library school student or recent graduate who is interested in a career in news libraries, sound cataloging, or audio archives.

- Reference Library Internship: (Typically offered all three semesters)
The NPR Reference Library is an integral, essential part of the news-gathering and editorial process. The librarians conduct ready and in-depth research, provide fact-checking and pronunciation guidance, and suggest experts and story ideas for NPR staff in a fast-paced deadline-based environment. The librarians use print and online resources, including commercial databases, a print collection, and intranet resources. The NPR Reference Library seeks intern candidates who are interested in learning more about providing reference services in a deadline-based environment. The Reference Library intern candidate must be a current or recent library school student, have prior reference experience, and have experience using LexisNexis and/or Factiva and other print and online resources. The intern candidate should be able to work independently and be adaptable to a changing work environment. The ideal candidate should have an interest in variety of areas including news, world events and popular culture.

- Spoken Word Internship:  (Typically offered throughout the year, UNPAID internship)
The NPR Library's Spoken Word Collection consists of a variety of rare and commercially available recordings on various formats.  The collection is regularly used for production, often on deadline-necessitating careful, accurate catalog records for quick access.  Approximately 2000 items are currently cataloged, with hundreds more waiting to be added.  The NPR library seeks an intern to assist with cataloging and processing of Spoken Word items, with a focus on sports-related material.  Intern will create original metadata for Spoken Word items in the library database (Techlib) and process materials for circulation, and possibly recommend further items for acquisition. Students will receive training in cataloging Spoken Word materials and will have the advantage of observing how a broadcast library works. Candidates should have completed coursework in indexing or cataloging, and have the ability to create consistent, accurate records (spelling counts!).  We are currently seeking an intern with knowledge/interest in sports, past and present.  The student should have good communications skills and be familiar with NPR.

Morning Edition Internship: (Typically offered all three semesters)
Please note:  Morning Edition internships are offered both at NPR DC and NPR West (Culver City, CA).
Conducts research for daily stories and long-term projects; books interviews; gets archival tape; and helps get the program on the air, which includes performing routine administrative tasks. He/she should have an interest in the news, and be prepared to offer story ideas. Journalism major not required. In addition to the regular application items, candidates must submit a writing sample.

NPR Music  Internships (Classical, General Music)

- Classical Internship: (Typically offered in all three semesters)
Assists with the production of classical music features on the Web and on-air.

- General Music:  (Typically offered in all three semesters)
Assists with the daily production of the NPR Music website.

National Desk Internship: (Typically offered all three semesters)
Schedules interviews; logs tape; conducts story research for reporters and editors; sorts mail; answers phone; and participates in staff meetings and projects as required. Candidates should be interested in news and current events. Strong research skills, computer literacy, and knowledge of NPR programming preferred. In addition to the regular application items, candidates must submit a writing sample.

National Desk Economic Training Project Internship: (Fall 2009 and Spring 2010)
Please note: This internship is based at NPR West in Culver City, California.
Assists in the administration of the NPR News Economic Training Project, which teaches and mentors member station reporters to better cover the economy. Works with the Supervising Editor to assist and support member station ‘fellows’ in their reporting. Conducts story research. Finds sources and suggests story ideas. Sorts mail, answers phones, helps organize training workshops. The intern is welcome to also participate in the workshops. Strong research skills, computer literacy, and knowledge of NPR programming preferred. Interest in business & economics news and familiarity with economic concepts and terms strongly preferred.

News Desk Internship: (Typically offered in all three semesters)
Assists in handling the flow of information managed by the News Desk; maintains a “futures” calendar for the News Division; and Schedules interviews; answers phone; and participates in staff meetings and projects as required. Candidates should be interested in news and current events. Strong research skills, computer literacy, and knowledge of NPR programming preferred. In addition to the regular application items, candidates must submit a writing sample.

NPR Labs Internship: (Typically offered during the summer semester only)
Labs internships are technical in nature, and involve a mixture of computer programming, electronics, and a variety of other activities involved in supporting technical initiatives for public radio. Interns work on the following: MATLAB software to automate RF test equipment in our lab; mapping station congressional districts; field work to measure FM Modulator leakage; and carrying out subjective tests to judge the handicap-accessibility issues on radio interfaces. Interns need to be smart, adaptable, and self-starting quick learners. Strong technical background, with ability to work well on a team and independently.

Office of the General Counsel Internship: (Typically offered all three semesters - multiple positions often available.)
Legal interns are crucial contributors to the goal of the Office of the General Counsel (“OGC”) to provide high quality, cost-efficient, legal and related services to our NPR® clients to achieve its mission of service to the public.  The OGC offers challenging and diverse work assignments for legal interns as it provides legal assistance to all the corporate divisions of NPR.  Legal interns (law clerks) work on legal and policy matters concerning a nonprofit corporation and a radio network.  The OGC handles a wide variety of legal issues, including (in no particular order of priority):  FCC regulatory and other communications; First Amendment; Internet; various aspects of intellectual property, including  music rights, content licensing, copyright, trademark, and patents; nonprofit tax; technology, such as software licensing; employment and labor, including Title VII, labor relations, and other aspects of the employer-employee relationship; and corporate law, as well as contracts in all areas.  Law clerks are expected to contribute to all practice areas and they not only conduct legal research and prepare legal memoranda and other legal documents, but also participate in client meetings, legislative and regulatory meetings, and other “outside-the-library” projects, such as observing legal proceedings and attending legal training offered through the District of Columbia Bar Association or other local organizations.
 
Interns in the OGC also participate in an NPR-wide orientation and training program along with other interns in various divisions of NPR and also would have an opportunity during the summer, if they are so inclined and OGC responsibilities permit, to become involved in an in-house production and broadcast of Intern Edition, a news magazine completely staffed by interns.  Legal internships at NPR are available only to law students.  We prefer students who will have completed two years of law school by the time their internships start, though we will consider applications from law students who have completed their first year, at a minimum, if they have relevant background experience and strong legal research and writing skills.  NPR offers legal internships throughout the year.  They can be either funded or unfunded.  Course credit may be obtained by arrangement with individual law schools.  During the summer, we expect law clerks to work full time, 40 hours per week for 10 weeks.  Spring, fall, and winter internships can be on a part-time (at least 16 hours per week) or full-time schedule. 

In addition to the NPR Internship Application Form (available on the NPR website at  www.npr.org/about/jobs/intern/internship_application.pdf), applications for legal internships must include:

• a cover letter;
• a résumé;
• a legal writing sample;
• names and contact information for three references (reference letters are not required), at least two of whom should be familiar with the applicant’s legal research and writing skills;
• an unofficial law school transcript.

We consider applications for winter/spring and fall internships on a rolling basis during the year.  Submit summer applications in the preceding January, after fall semester grades are available.  Please submit applications either to the Human Resources Department – Internship Program, National Public Radio, Inc., 635 Massachusetts Avenue, Washington, DC 20001-3753, or to Greg Lewis, Associate General Counsel, National Public Radio, Inc., at the same address.  (Please do not send applications by e-mail.)  More information about the internship program at NPR in general is available at http://www.npr.org/about/jobs/intern/.  If you have questions about NPR legal internships, please contact Greg Lewis at 202- 513 -2050 or at glewis@npr.org.   

Ombudsman Internship: (Typically offered all three semesters)
As the listeners’ advocate, the Office of the Ombudsman deals with issues of editorial judgment and responds to NPR's audience via email, phone, mail and an online column. Each workday varies depending on what needs to be researched according to NPR’s ethics code. Duties include investigating NPR stories which potentially violate this code, as well as acting as the office’s “eyes and ears” to discover what issues are of concern to NPR’s listeners. An interest in public radio, critical thinking, concern about accuracy and a passion for detailed research are vital for a successful candidate. We are seeking a digital whiz who is proficient with podcasting, Facebook, Twitter, etc.  The Ombudsman intern must possess a flexible and proactive attitude which is essential to effectively handle the sometimes unpredictable events of the day. A track record of “out of the box” thinking and knowledge of digital media is a must.  

Planet Money Internship:  (Typically offered all three semesters)
This internship is based in New York.  Assists with researching stories for Planet Money’s podcast and radio reports, creates original content for the Planet Money blog, maintains data bases and external contacts, and performs routine administrative tasks as well.  Must have excellent writing, researching and analytic skills, and the ability to work independently, quickly and accurately under deadline pressure.  Knowledge of basic principles of economics and finance preferred.  Web skills essential, including knowledge of HTML tags, blogging software such as Moveable Type.  Experience with other tools, like Photoshop preferred.  Please submit writing samples.

Policy and Representation Internship: (Typically offered in the Fall and Spring semesters)
Want to learn about the inner workings of a busy government relations department? The Policy and Representation team seeks highly motivated and organized applicants with an interest in public radio and government relations. Everyday duties include assisting with NPR member station outreach, Congressional relations, general administrative tasks and planning for various events including public radio’s annual Capital Hill Day. Applicants should be adept at multitasking and prepared to handle a vast array of spontaneous tasks (including research projects and occasional trips to the Hill).  The internship is designed to provide broad practical exposure to lobbying and the legislative/regulatory process, specifically concerning issues facing public broadcasting.  Strong written and verbal communications skills as well as a general understanding of federal government administration are a must. Political science, communications majors preferred.  Applicants must be proficient in the Microsoft Office suite. Working knowledge of HTML and previous experience on Capitol Hill a plus.

Product/Project Development Internship (NPR Distribution): (Typically offered all three semesters)
An opportunity to learn about the business, financial, and analysis side of software and technology product development. Assist in researching, organizing, and updating business analysis and technical specifications for existing technology products. Research, update, and consolidate business requirements that document how transactional systems operate. Assist in developing tools and repositories for easy access to business documentation. Assist in industry scans and research on new technologies and potential product development opportunities. The ideal candidate will have an interest in understanding the business and customer sides of the software and product development life cycle. This would be great for an intern that is interested in business, technical writing, computer science, or engineering fields. Good basic writing skills. A candidate who uses and enjoys web-based technologies like podcasting, Facebook, twitter, and mobile phone applications is ideal. Some experience with HTML coding or computer programming is desired but not essential.

Science Desk (Editorial) Internship: (Typically offered in all three semesters)
The Science Desk is one of four departments that supplies Morning Edition, All Things Considered, the weekend shows and Newscast with stories about health, basic science, and environmental issues. The intern will assist the Editorial Assistant with day-to-day tasks on the Science Desk. Duties will include routine administrative tasks, scheduling interviews and studios and may also include researching stories, getting archival tape, attending editorial meetings, and other work as needed. Knowledge of NPR programming is preferred, and demonstrated interest in news and science is essential. Assists with writing, researching and updating science and health news and feature coverage on the NPR Internet site. Experience preferred in writing copy for news and feature stories, and photo editing with Photoshop. Must have excellent writing, researching and editing skills, and ability to work quickly, accurately and under deadline. Flexibility and creativity a plus.

Science Desk (Multimedia) Internship: (Typically offered all three semesters)
The Science Desk is one of four departments that supplies Morning Edition, All Things Considered, the weekend shows and Newscast with stories about health, basic science, and environmental issues. In addition to assisting with day-to-day tasks on the Science Desk (see Science Desk Internship listing), this intern assists with editing photos and video for science and health coverage on NPR.org. Works with the news desk and digital news team to assist with visual story development, including editing of staff and freelance photos, preparation of photos for the website, building of photo and audio galleries, and editing video for the web. Experience needed in Photoshop and Final Cut Pro. Must have excellent writing, researching and editing skills, and ability to work quickly, accurately and under deadline. Flexibility and creativity needed. A background or strong interest in science is encouraged. Still and video shooting skills a plus, although this is primarily an editing internship. Please send a list of links or a CD/DVD of photo, video, and/or multimedia projects (required).

Social Media Desk Internship (Typically offered in all three semesters)
Under the supervision of the Social Media Desk, the intern supports the NPR.org community through online interaction with members of the public and in-person interaction with NPR editorial staff. The intern also assists with the production of NPR blogs and other social-media initiatives. The goal of the Social Media Desk is to expand the range of news gathering and production activities at NPR through the creation of a new relationship with the public.  Applicants should already be active in online communities such as Facebook, Flickr and Twitter and should be interested in pursuing a career in journalism.

Talk of the Nation Internship: (Typically offered all three semesters. Mid-semester internships also)
Assists the director in billboard tape collection; does daily research for various show topics; greets guests in the lobby and escorts them to the studio; delivers show promos to various departments; monitors e-mail and letters the show receives; obtains media release forms from in-studio and remote guests; and assembles and distributes roadmaps for the show; researches show topics and identifies potential guests; identifies tape and music; assists with tracking down guests; works closely with senior producer, executive producer and host; participates in editorial meetings; contributes story and guest ideas; assists and observes the studio crew during live production.

Tell Me More with Michel Martin: (Typically offered all three semesters)
This program, produced by NPR News with the support of the African American Public Radio Consortium, is designed to showcase issues of particular interest to African Americans. It is also designed to appeal to the general public radio audience with an emphasis on public policy and international affairs as well as lifestyle and culture. The intern will be involved in all aspects of production, including proposing and researching story ideas, booking and escorting guests, and assisting with scripts for broadcast. Strong research skills are necessary; experience in radio production is helpful but not required (training provided). Also important: a strong work ethic, self-motivation, an interest in the subjects relevant to our show and a passionate interest of his or her own, whatever it may be (hip hop, popular culture, theater, sports, fashion, etc.). An interest in Africa and/or the Caribbean is also helpful, as we anticipate a strong commitment to coverage from and about these areas.

Washington Desk Internship: (Typically offered all three semesters)
Sets-up interviews; conducts story research for reporters and editors; sorts mail; and answers phone. Candidates should be interested in the United States government and politics. Strong research skills, computer literacy, and knowledge of NPR programming preferred. In addition to the regular application items, candidates must submit a writing sample.

Weekend All Things Considered Internships: (Typically offered all three semesters)
Intern for Weekend All Things Considered (Wed-Sun).  Intern assists producers in putting together the weekly programs on Saturday and Sunday.  Researches long- and short-term projects for the host. Pre-interviews guests and authors for book interviews; sets-up feature interviews; writes introductions and questions for interviews. Tasks also include routine administrative work, such as sorting the mail. He/she should have a strong interest in the news, and be prepared to offer story ideas. A liberal arts background - an individual majoring in religion, history, art, etc. - preferred. In addition to the regular application items, candidates must submit a cover letter.

Weekend Edition Internships (2 placements): (Typically offered all three semesters)
Intern for Weekend Morning shows, either Saturday or Sunday.  Intern assists producers in putting together the weekly programs.  Pitches and researches story ideas.  Researches long- and short-term projects for the hosts. Pre-interviews guests and authors for book interviews; sets-up feature interviews; writes introductions and questions for interviews.  Strong research, writing and organizational skills required.  Must be a self-starter who enjoys following the news, working independently and finding the quirky and unexpected story.  Tasks also include routine administrative work, such as sorting the mail.  In addition to standard application materials, candidates should submit an exceptional cover letter.

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To apply for an internship, you may download an internship application from our web site or send a written request for an application with your complete name and mailing address to either the mailing address, fax number, or e-mail address listed below:

National Public Radio
Human Resources Department
635 Massachusetts Avenue, NW
Washington, DC  20001
Fax number - (202) 513-3047
E-mail address - Internship@npr.org
For more career information, visit our web site at:  www.npr.org/about/jobs.

 

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