Strategic Communication Internship Program Jobs in Flagstaff, AZ

Are you passionate about storytelling, social media, and making a real impact in your community? The Arizona Department of Public Safety (AZDPS) is looking for a creative and motivated Social Media College Intern to join our Highway Patrol Social Media Team. This isn't just another internship-it's a chance to gain hands-on experience in law enforcement communications, learn from public safety professionals, and help shape the Department's digital presence across Arizona. You'll create engaging content, share inspiring stories from the field, and help strengthen the relationship between the Highway Patrol Division and the communities we serve.

Under direct supervision, the Social Media Intern supports the Arizona Department of Public Safety's (AZDPS) Communications and Public Affairs Unit in creating, managing, and evaluating content for the Department's social media platforms. This position offers hands-on experience in digital communications, public information, and community engagement within a law enforcement environment. The intern will assist in promoting public safety awareness, supporting recruitment efforts, and showcasing the Department's mission to protect human life and property. This classification is designed to provide an educational benefit to students pursuing a career in communications, journalism, marketing, public relations, or a related field. This classification is designated as uncovered; the incumbent serves at the pleasure of the Director of the Department of Public Safety. 

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

1. Basic knowledge of social media platforms and current trends
2. Strong writing and editing skills
3. A creative eye for visuals (photography or video skills a plus!)
4. Familiarity with Microsoft Word, Excel, and tools like Canva, Hootsuite, or Adobe Express
5. The ability to work collaboratively, meet deadlines, and communicate clearly

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

1. Must be at least 16 years of age at the start of the internship.
2. Must have the legal right to work in the United States.  
3. Must complete a background check.
4. Must pass a drug screen. 
5. Must be enrolled in a college program or its equivalent. 

WORKING CONDITIONS/PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
Office setting.

Applicants must complete an examination process. A polygraph and background investigation are required for successful applicants. DPS supports a drug-free work environment through pre-employment drug testing.
If this position requires driving or the use of a vehicle as an essential function of the job to conduct State business, then the following requirements apply: Driver's License Requirements. All newly hired State employees are subject to and must successfully complete the Electronic Employment Eligibility Verification Program (E-Verify).

The Arizona Department of Public Safety is proud to offer a comprehensive benefits package to benefit-eligible employees in cooperation with the State of Arizona.
Accrued vacation pay and sick days
10 paid holidays per year
Deferred compensation plan
Top-ranked retirement plans
Affordable medical, dental, vision, life, and short & long-term disability insurance plans
Employee Assistance, Peer and Family Support Programs
Bus Cards (Subsidized partially by the State)
Paid Parental Leave-Up to 12 weeks per year paid leave for newborn or newly-placed foster/adopted child (pilot program).

For a complete list of benefits provided by The State of Arizona, please visit our benefits page

State employees are required to participate in the Arizona State Retirement System (ASRS), the State sponsored retirement contribution plan and the Long-Term Disability (LTD) program after a 27-week waiting period. The ASRS defined benefit plan provides for life-long income upon retirement. You will also have the option to participate in a voluntary deferred compensation program to take advantage of tax-deferred retirement investments.

On, or shortly after, your first day of work you will be provided with additional information about the available insurance plans, enrollment instructions, submission deadlines and effective dates.

The State of Arizona is an Equal Opportunity/Reasonable Accommodation Employer. Persons with a disability may request a reasonable accommodation such as a sign language interpreter or an alternative format by calling (602) 223-2290. Requests should be made as early as possible to allow sufficient time to arrange the accommodation.