IAE Communications & Public Affairs Intern - Fall 2025 (Finance)

Organization:
The University of South Florida (USF) Institute of Applied Engineering (IAE) provides agile, best-value engineering solutions to enhance the performance and effectiveness of its sponsors, including the Department of Defense; other federal, state, and local agencies; and industry. These solutions include hardware-and-software-based research, advanced technology development, prototypes, and technical services.

Position Summary

The IAE is seeking a Communications & Public Affairs Intern to support the institute's outreach, marketing, and public engagement efforts. This role combines social media management, public affairs, and communications support to promote IAE's mission, research projects, and community impact. The intern will gain hands-on experience in strategic communications, content creation, and stakeholder engagement.

Opportunities

• Gain practical experience in professional communications, marketing, and public affairs.
• Build a portfolio of social media, multimedia, and public communications work.
• Apply classroom knowledge to real-world projects and initiatives.
• Receive a letter of recommendation upon successful completion.

Qualifications

Required

• Due to this position being partially funded by the Department of Defense, U.S. Citizenship is required (must be eligible to receive a security clearance).
• Junior or Senior pursuing a degree in Communications, Marketing, Public Relations, Journalism, or a related field.
• Current GPA of 3.0 or higher.
• Strong written, verbal, and visual communication skills.
• Familiarity with major social media platforms and digital communications best practices.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a dynamic environment.

Desired

• Experience with graphic design tools (e.g., Canva, Adobe Creative Suite).
• Photography, videography, or multimedia production experience.
• Knowledge of social media analytics tools and performance tracking.
• Previous experience in public affairs, marketing, or communications campaigns.
• Creative thinking and initiative in content development and storytelling.

Working at USF
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With approximately 16,000 employees, the University of South Florida is one of the largest employers in the Tampa Bay area. We are dedicated to cultivating a talented, engaged and driven workforce that strives to be bold. Employees excel in USF's rich academic environment, which fosters their development and advancement. In 2025, Forbes recognized USF as one of Florida's best large employers, ranked No. 1 among the state's 12 public universities. Our first-class benefits package includes medical, dental and life insurance plans, retirement plan options, employee and dependent tuition programs, generous leave, and hundreds of employee perks and discounts.
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About USF
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The University of South Florida is a top-ranked research university serving approximately 50,000 students from across the globe at campuses in Tampa, St. Petersburg, Sarasota-Manatee and USF Health. USF is recognized by U.S. News & World Report as a top 50 public university and the best value in Florida. U.S. News also ranks the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine as the No. 1 medical school in Florida and in the highest tier nationwide. USF is a member of the Association of American Universities (AAU), a group that includes only the top 3% of universities in the U.S. With an all-time high of $738 million in research funding in 2024 and as a top 20 public university for producing U.S. patents, USF uses innovation to transform lives and shape a better future. The university generates an annual economic impact of more than $6 billion. USF's Division I athletics teams compete in the American Athletic Conference. Learn more at www.usf.edu .
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Compliance and Federal Notices
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This position may be subject to a Level 1 or Level 2 criminal background check.
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Applicants have rights under Federal Employment Laws :
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Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
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Applicants for USF employment are entitled to request reasonable accommodation(s) in the application process. A request is to be made at least five (5) working days prior to the time the accommodation(s) is needed. Visit the Central Human Resources ADA Accommodations webpage for more information on requesting an accommodation during the application/interview process.Responsibilities

• Develop, schedule, and publish content across IAE's social media platforms (LinkedIn, X/Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, etc.).
• Assist in creating multimedia content, including graphics, photos, videos, and presentations.
• Support public affairs initiatives such as event promotion, press releases, newsletters, and website updates.
• Collaborate with engineering and research teams to highlight projects, achievements, and innovations.
• Monitor engagement and provide recommendations to improve communications strategies.
• Maintain consistent messaging, branding, and professional tone across all channels.
• Track and analyze social media and communications metrics to support reporting and strategic planning.
• Assist with ad hoc communications, marketing, and public affairs projects as needed.

Time Commitment

• Hours of operation: 8:00am - 5:00pm, Monday-Friday.
• During Fall/Spring: 15-20 hours per week.
• During Summer: 20-29 hours per week.
• This internship is on-site in Tampa, FL (hybrid remote opportunity).