Communications Intern

ARA Career • Panama City, FL

4d • Onsite

About The Position

Applied Research Associates (ARA) is an employee-owned engineering and research company with expertise spanning defense, energy, transportation, and infrastructure. We are seeking a motivated communications intern to support client-facing communications work on behalf of federal and state government agencies, helping convey the impact of complex programs and research to a variety of stakeholders. As a communications intern at ARA, you will gain hands-on experience developing communications products in support of federal and state government clients. Working alongside ARA’s communications professionals, you’ll help craft clear, audience-appropriate messaging that explains technical programs, policies, and initiatives to government stakeholders, partner organizations, and the public. Please note that this position is in Panama City, FL. No relocation assistance will be provided. What we offer: Mentorship from experienced communications professionals with deep federal and state agency expertise Exposure to meaningful government programs spanning national security, infrastructure, energy, and more Competitive hourly compensation Flexible scheduling to accommodate academic commitments Opportunity to build a professional portfolio through real client deliverables

Requirements

• Currently enrolled in a bachelor’s or master’s degree program in communications, journalism, English, public relations, marketing, business, public administration, or a related field
• Strong writing, editing, and proofreading skills with attention to audience and tone
• Ability to distill complex technical or policy information for general audiences
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite; familiarity with content management systems a plus
• Detail-oriented with strong organizational and time management skills
• Professional demeanor and ability to work effectively in a client-service environment

Nice To Haves

• Background or coursework in government, public policy, defense, or federal or state contracting
• Experience with social media management or digital communications tools
• Familiarity with Adobe Creative Suite, Canva, or similar design tools
• Prior internship or work experience in communications, marketing, or a government-adjacent setting
• Portfolio of writing samples demonstrating range and adaptability

Responsibilities

• Draft, edit, and proofread communications materials including fact sheets, talking points, web content, newsletters, and executive correspondence on behalf of government agency clients
• Translate technical or policy-dense information into accessible content for a range of audiences
• Support the development of strategic communications plans, messaging frameworks, and stakeholder engagement materials
• Conduct research to inform communications strategies and support thought leadership efforts
• Contribute to quality reviews of deliverables to ensure consistency with client brand and style standards
• Assist with graphics and layout preparation in collaboration with design staff

Benefits

• Mentorship from experienced communications professionals with deep federal and state agency expertise
• Exposure to meaningful government programs spanning national security, infrastructure, energy, and more
• Competitive hourly compensation
• Flexible scheduling to accommodate academic commitments
• Opportunity to build a professional portfolio through real client deliverables

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Intern
• Number of Employees: 501-1,000 employees