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Public Relations Intern Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Philanthropy Internship

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$14.75 - $19.75/hr

Nonprofit Management, Business Administration, Marketing, Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Human Services, Social Work, Public Administration, Event Management

The Corporate Communications Intern will make important contributions to the work of a major ... to public relations, including blog posts, press releases, and slide presentations * Conduct ...

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Public Relations Intern information

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How much do public relations intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for public relations intern in Iowa is $16.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.56 and $18.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a public relations intern do?

A Public Relations Intern assists PR teams in managing a company's image and communication with the public. Their tasks often include drafting press releases, monitoring media coverage, conducting research, and helping organize events. They may also support social media campaigns and help maintain media contact lists. This role provides hands-on experience in media relations, communication strategies, and networking within the industry.

What types of projects and tasks can a public relations intern expect to work on during their internship?

As a Public Relations Intern, you can expect to be involved in a variety of hands-on projects such as drafting press releases, compiling media lists, monitoring news coverage, and assisting with event planning or social media campaigns. Interns often collaborate closely with PR coordinators and account executives, providing support in both research and administrative tasks. This role offers valuable exposure to the inner workings of PR campaigns and client communications, helping you develop writing, organizational, and relationship-building skills. It's a great opportunity to gain practical experience and insight into agency or in-house PR environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a public relations intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Public Relations Intern, you need strong written and verbal communication skills, an understanding of media relations, and often a background in communications, journalism, or a related field. Familiarity with media monitoring tools, social media platforms, and basic graphic design or PR software like Cision or Meltwater is advantageous. Initiative, attention to detail, and the ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment are valuable soft skills. These qualifications are essential for crafting compelling messages, supporting campaigns, and effectively managing an organization’s public image.

What is the difference between Public Relations Intern vs Public Relations Coordinator?

AspectPublic Relations InternPublic Relations Coordinator
Required CredentialsTypically pursuing or recent graduate in communications, marketing, or related fieldBachelor's degree in communications, public relations, or related field; some experience preferred
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, internship setting, assisting with daily PR tasksFull-time role, managing media relations, press releases, and campaigns
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in agencies, corporations, nonprofits for training and support rolesUsed across industries for managing public image and media outreach

The Public Relations Intern role is an entry-level position focused on supporting PR activities, often held by students or recent graduates. The Public Relations Coordinator is a more experienced role responsible for executing PR strategies and managing media relations. Both roles share similar educational backgrounds but differ in responsibilities and experience level.

How do I get into public relations intern with no experience?

To become a public relations intern with no experience, focus on developing strong communication skills, gaining relevant knowledge through online courses or certifications, and creating a compelling resume that highlights any related skills or volunteer work. Internships often value enthusiasm and willingness to learn, so applying to entry-level positions or volunteering for communication-related projects can also help build your background.
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The most popular types of Public Relations jobs in Iowa are:

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For Public Relations Intern jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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The top searched job categories for Public Relations Intern jobs in Iowa are:

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Cities in Iowa with the most Public Relations Intern job openings:

Infographic showing various Public Relations Intern job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,380 per year, or $16.5 per hour.

Public Policy Intern

Des Moines, IA • On-site

$14.75 - $19.50/hr

Internship

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Description:


SUMMARY OF FUNCTIONS: This position will report to the Director of Government Relations and Public Policy and be available for approximately 10-15 hours per week, while providing flexibility to accommodate class schedules. The position will provide support for the Director of Government Relations and Public Policy in the form of administrative tasks, project coordination, communication, and logistics. The individual will gain experience learning from a Government Relations professional and economic development organization while participating in a variety of projects, events, and initiatives.


SPECIFIC JOB RESPSONSIBILITIES:

  • Assists Director of Government Relations and Public Policy by:
  • Set-up and tear-down of virtual and in-person meetings 
  • Tracks progress on projects and tasks  
  • Bill research & tracking  
  • Research state and Federal public policy issues 
  • Ensures the organizing of extensive project information. 
  • Assists in printing of handouts, agendas, collateral or other materials 
  • Supports spreadsheet projects – outlining information, cleaning data, formatting, etc. 
  • Assists the Talent Development and Inclusive Strategies team as needed
  • Helps create project flow and timelines; outlines project details into Policy Planning Folders; ensures project goals, tasks, action items and deadlines are clearly communicated to all team members. 
  • Drafts, edits, and sends the weekly Government Policy Council (GPC) newsletter, staying-to-date on relevant current events and The Partnership's local, state, and federal advocacy and policy agenda updates. 
  • Aids in developing a variety of written documents, including, but not limited to blogs, invitations, agendas, letters of thanks, letters of support and policy brief backgrounds.  
  • Maintains contact information for elected officials in Iowa and The Partnership’s Government Policy Council (GPC), as well as contact information for a variety of volunteer groups. Ensures contact information is available in Excel and is accurate, as well as easily digestible and understood. 
  • Assists the Director of Government Relations and Public Policy in gathering information and research needed to move projects forward.  
  • Conducts oneself in a professional manner consistent with The Partnership’s mission, vision and values. 
  • Other duties as assigned. 

QUALIFICATIONS:

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

  • Can work independently and demonstrate initiative and experience in interacting with the business community. 
  • Has excellent oral and written communication skills.  
  • Is detail oriented and possesses strong organizational and problem-solving skills.  
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications.
  • Strong interpersonal skills, can express and present ideas, listen well, and work in a team environment. 
  • Ability to work under pressure to meet deadlines and manage multiple projects simultaneously. 
  • Has a positive attitude, willingness to learn, and a keen eye for processes/efficiency. 

Education and Experience: 

  • Working toward a degree or recently completed a degree in public policy, public administration, international relations, or other related areas. 
  • Previous internship experience a plus. Basic to high level understanding of and interest in government relations and public policy projects desired but not required; ideal candidate will be ready to learn. 
Requirements: