Now Accepting Fall 2024 Internship Applications

At the Santa Cruz County Chamber, college students can obtain hands-on experience in a variety of departments. Internships offer responsibilities such as research, writing, database management, web page maintenance, communications, and event preparation. During the internship, interns will be able to network with colleagues and demonstrate their skills and abilities.
To learn more about our current and past interns, view our interns page.

Organization Description:
The Santa Cruz County Chamber of Commerce is a complete business resource focused on promoting the economic vitality of local businesses and the Santa Cruz economic community. We provide a number of resources to the community including marketing of local member events, hosting workshops and seminars, facilitating discussions on local issues, and providing networking opportunities. We put on a number of community events each year such as: the Business Fair; Annual Recognition Dinner; Community Luncheons; monthly Networking Mixers; Ribbon Cutting celebrations; a Leadership Forum; and the Community Leadership Visit. We operate with a professional staff of two under the guidance of a volunteer Board of Directors.  An internship with the chamber puts you in a professional environment, working with professional business owners on real-life issues.  See below for our 4 available internship positions. 
Government Affairs Intern:
Responsibilities and Opportunities:

1. Attend various meetings of the SC City Council, County Board of Supervisors, Water/Municipal Utilities, Transportation and/or other economic community entities (This position will require offsite attendance.  A set schedule of attendance will be put into place not to interfere with class schedule.)
2. Create web blog to be proofed and directed by CEO and then published on Chamber website.  
3. Attend at least one Chamber Committee meeting
4. Other duties as assigned under direction of CEO and/or other Chamber staff.

 
Research & Advocacy Intern:
Responsibilities and Opportunities:

1. Conduct research on economic issues, demographics, and trends that impact Santa Cruz County.
2. Present research findings via writing and editing reports and summaries, and analyzing and graphing data.
3. With Chamber staff (and as available), attend and/or view video files of Board, committee, and government meetings to take or transcribe notes, make observations, and write reports.
4. Source, organize, update, and maintain economic information, research, and political agendas, minutes, and policies on the Chamber website.
5. Keep all Chamber staff apprised of incoming economic and advocacy-related information. Assist in planning and executing the dissemination of this information to members and the greater business community.
6. Attend at least one Chamber Committee meeting
7. Other duties as assigned under direction of CEO and/or other Chamber staff.

 
Marketing & Communications Intern:
Responsibilities and Opportunities:

1. Data entry including updating member profiles, and cash, check, and credit card transactions
2. Create and maintain the Chamber’s social media presence, including daily monitoring, posting, scheduling, and metrics reporting of Chamber information.
3. Design and generate membership marketing products, including graphics, banner ads, website content, postcards, and other marketing collaterals for website, social media, email campaigns, and other sales/marketing efforts.
4. Attend Chamber functions and provide assistance with check-in, sales, and event photographing
5. Plan, film, edit, and produce videos of member businesses, including testimonials and business highlights. Publish videos on website and other digital platforms.
6. Assist in lead generation efforts, including updating and maintaining the Chamber’s CRMs (Customer Relationship Management system).
7. Other duties as assigned under direction of Membership Relations Director and/or other Chamber staff.

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Training Provided for ALL Internship positions:
-Professional interactions and experience working in a business environment
-Communication skills, both verbal and written – in a variety of business contexts
-Customer interaction skills, including verbal, written, and professional deportment
-Computer skills including Microsoft Office Suite, email and social media platforms,   
  Photoshop, CRMs, website
-Interns will be given at least one research project related to the business community
 
Qualifications/Skills/Coursework Required for ALL Internship positions:

1. Ability to work between 6 and 12 hours per week.
2. Basic computers skills using a PC including business software MS Office.
3. Good verbal and written communication skills.
4. As available, attend Chamber functions and assist with check-ins and sales.
5. Prepare reports for staff and Board as necessary.
6. Able to work independently.
7. Able to manage multiple projects with great attention to detail, handle overlapping deadlines and demands, and remain focused through frequent interruptions.
8. Interest in Community, Marketing, Government and/or Business Administration
9. Knowledge of Santa Cruz County helpful, but not essential.

 
Compensation: This is a non-compensated program. Interns may receive course credit from an accredited institution if pre-approved by said organization. We have programs in place with UCSC and Cabrillo College.
 
Application Process:
Send your resume and cover letter (including availability if known) to Casey Beyer at [email protected] or simply apply below: