Communications and Community Engagement Intern

Communications & Community Engagement Intern

Transit Forward is seeking a Communications & Community Engagement Intern to support our growing regional coalition advancing public transportation, mobility, and infrastructure solutions across Central Texas. This role is ideal for a student interested in communications, public policy, community engagement, event planning, and advocacy.

The intern will help elevate Transit Forward’s public presence through social media, newsletters, storytelling, and community events. They will work closely with the Executive Director and coalition partners to communicate complex transportation issues in accessible, engaging ways while helping convene stakeholders from across the region.

Responsibilities

• Assist with drafting and scheduling social media content across platforms including Instagram, LinkedIn, and X/Twitter
• Support creation and distribution of monthly newsletters and email campaigns
• Develop graphics, captions, reels, and other digital content highlighting transit, infrastructure, and community initiatives
• Help monitor current transportation and policy news relevant to Transit Forward’s work
• Assist with planning and execution of coalition events including happy hours, luncheons, panels, community engagement events, and advocacy campaigns
• Coordinate event logistics such as RSVPs, outreach, signage, run-of-show documents, and on-site support
• Capture photos/video content at events for future communications use
• Support outreach to community organizations, members, speakers, and stakeholders
• Assist with maintaining consistent branding and messaging across communications materials

Preferred Qualifications

• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Interest in public policy, transportation, urban planning, communications, or community engagement
• Familiarity with social media platforms and content creation tools such as Canva, Mailchimp, Eventbrite, etc.
• Organized, detail-oriented, and comfortable managing multiple projects
• Creative thinker with strong interpersonal skills
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively and manage time

What You’ll Gain

• Hands-on experience in advocacy communications and coalition-building
• Exposure to transportation and infrastructure policy in Central Texas
• Opportunities to attend high-level policy and community events
• Portfolio-building experience in digital communications, event planning, and public engagement
• Mentorship and networking opportunities with regional leaders, advocates, elected officials, and industry professionals

This is an unpaid position but has the opportunity to grow into a paid position. The position is 70% remote with 30% time at in person events and meetings located in Austin. This internship is a great opportunity for someone passionate about storytelling, civic engagement, and helping shape the future of mobility in Central Texas.

If interested, please email a short paragraph of interest and resume to ashika@transitforward.org