EMPLOYMENT
Job Announcement: Communications Associate
Organization Overview: The Center for Public Policy Priorities in Austin, Texas, is a nonpartisan, nonprofit policy institute committed to improving public policies to make a better Texas. You can learn more about the center at www.cppp.org.
Job Overview: This is a new position. The communications associate reports to the communications director and is responsible for assisting in three areas: 1) editing, designing, and distributing our analyses and reports in print and on the Web and social channels; 2) actively increasing public awareness of our work through traditional media and social channels; 3) and helping develop and implement communications strategies and campaigns.
Candidate Qualities: We will consider candidates with varying experience and skills, though the ideal candidate would have several years of professional experience in communications, journalism, or public relations and a broad range of skills, including writing and editing according to Associated Press style and the Chicago Manual of Style; graphic design using the Adobe Creative Suite; creating content and graphics for the Web and social media (Facebook and Twitter); and constituent management databases. Familiarity with our policy areas is desirable. Having the ability to work independently and as part of a team to meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment is essential. Commitment to the organization’s mission is also essential. A bachelor’s degree is required.
Compensation: Salary commensurate with experience. The center offers excellent benefits, including health insurance, dental insurance, life insurance, long-term disability insurance, retirement, and generous vacation, leave, and holidays.
Start Date: No later than June 1.
To Apply: Email a cover letter explaining why you are interested in and what you bring to this job, a resume with your qualifications, and an example of something you wrote or designed to by the close of business on Wednesday, February 29. We will accept applications only by e-mail. Applications will be kept strictly confidential.
Equal Opportunity: The center is an equal opportunity employer and encourages all qualified applicants to apply.
Internships
There are no internship positions available at this time. Please check back in March for availability in the Summer.
The mission of the Center for Public Policy Priorities’ internship program is to prepare highly motivated undergraduate and graduate students committed to improving public policies for low- and moderate-income Texans. The center’s internship program prepares interns for entry into the non-profit policy world by training them to conduct rigorous data and policy analysis, develop effective communications strategies, and build financial support for this important work.
The center is honored to host two sponsored internships: the Betty Anderson Public Policy Internship and the Michael and Alice Kuhn Public Policy Internship.
Internships are typically project-based, and may be available in the following areas: Kids Count, our public policy areas, communications, and nonprofit management, including development. Click here to see descriptions of the areas.
Not all positions are available every semester. The typical length of an internship is one semester (approximately 10-12 weeks), though an internship may be extended several semesters.
Please check at the following times for upcoming internship announcements:
Fall internships: July
Spring internships: November
Summer internships: April
Frequently Asked Questions
Does CPPP offer paid internships?
The center offers both paid and unpaid internships, depending upon project and staffing needs.
Can interns earn academic credit?
We are happy to cooperate with an institution's requirements for academic credit.
What is the standard intern work schedule?
CPPP's hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Interns may work part- or full-time depending on their arrangement with the center.
What are the requirements?
Interns at CPPP must be current students at a higher education institution. Applications from recent graduates will not be accepted. Ideal candidates possess a strong grade point average; commitment to work at least one full semester; writing, research, and computer skills; and a commitment to the center's mission.
Who do I contact if I have questions?
If you have additional questions regarding the center’s internship program, please contact the Internship Program Coordinator, at policyintern@cppp.org.