Graphic Design Internship

Oak Park-River Forest Chamber of Commerce 

Location: Hybrid | 141 S. Oak Park Avenue, Oak Park IL. 60302  

Reports to: Marketing and Administration Manager

Position Type: Internship (8-10 hours) (Part-Time, Paid)

Pay: $16.50 per hour 

Duration: 3-6 months, with possibility of a permanent position. 

About:

The Oak Park-River Forest Chamber of Commerce is a member-based organization supporting our small business community to stay informed, network with other members and provide marketing opportunities. We are also active in advocacy work at the local and state level, ensuring that our business community has a voice at the table when timely topics are being discussed and decisions are being made.

Position Overview:

We are looking for a creative and self-motivated Graphic Design Intern to join our dynamic team! This internship provides hands-on experience in a professional setting, where you'll design materials for e-blasts, marketing campaigns, community events, and Chamber initiatives. As part of our collaborative marketing team, you’ll create visually compelling graphics that engage and inform our business community. As a small team where everyone wears multiple hats, the ideal candidate will not only have strong design skills but also a passion for learning and developing skills in photography, video editing, and other creative fields. 

Key Responsibilities:

• Work with the marketing team to design and create members' e-blasts and the Chamber's weekly newsletters. 

• Collaborate with the marketing team to develop branding for Chamber events, programs, and campaigns.

• Possess the ability to visit businesses in Oak Park, River Forest, and nearby communities to professionally interact with business owners and community members for interviews and video content creation. 

• Assist in the design and production of digital and print materials (flyers, posters, social media graphics, brochures, event signage, etc.).

• Generate content, images, and designs that are consistent with Chamber Brand guidelines. 

• Possess the skill to edit video content for various Chamber initiatives, including interviews and promotional materials.

• Assist in creating content for the Chamber’s website, social media platforms, and email newsletters.

• Edit and resize images and graphics as needed for various platforms.

• Manage and complete weekly impromptu designs and requests from staff using a ticketing system.

• Support other creative needs as they arise.

Qualifications:

• Currently pursuing or recently completed a class (if in high school) or degree in Graphic Design, Visual Communications, or a related field.

• Proficiency or familiarity in multiple programs like Constant Contact (or Mailchimp), and design softwares like Canva or Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign), Capcut, or an equivalent software. 

• Familiarity with social media platforms and design for digital content.

• Strong attention to detail and creativity.

• Comfortable with working in a fast-paced environment and can problem solve in high-pressure situations. 

• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.

• Must have reliable transportation to visit local businesses and attend community events as needed. 

• Portfolio of design work (optional).

• Preferred: Proficiency in Spanish. 

Benefits:

• Gain real-world experience in a professional, collaborative environment.

• Build your portfolio with impactful projects.

• Learn about marketing and branding within a business-focused community organization.

• Networking opportunities with business leaders and community influencers. 

• Potential academic credit, depending on school requirements.

To Apply:

Please send your resume, cover letter, and a link to your design portfolio to Michelle Valle-Flores, Marketing and Administration Manager at mvalle-flores@oprfchamber.org. 

In your cover letter, we encourage applicants to review our social media and website, explaining your interest in working with us, how this internship aligns with your career goals, and your connection and interest in working with small businesses. 

We kindly ask that you do not call or visit our office during the application process.