Photo Archivist/Marketing Department Internship (Spring 2010)

Rails-to-Trails Conservancy (RTC) is the nation's leading advocate for trails and the only national organization devoted to converting unused railroad corridors into multi-use trails. Rails-to-Trails Conservancy is dedicated to connecting people and communities by creating a nationwide network of public trails. RTC is headquartered in Washington, D.C., with regional offices in California, Florida, Pennsylvania, and Ohio.

Position Overview:

RTC is looking for interns interested in working on environmental and public policy issues. Interns will provide assistance to the program, development, communications and the administrative department. Job assignments will consist of professional and administrative support. Interns will participate as full-time staff members including attending staff meetings, retreats and social gatherings. Hours are flexible to accommodate class schedule(s) or other commitments. Generally hours are four days a week from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. or 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Internship, Photo Archivist/Marketing Department, National Office, Washington, D.C. The Communications Department has a full or part-time Photo Archivist Internship available. The successful candidate will administer the development of RTC's photo archive system using to-be-determined asset management software.

Responsibilities: 

Duties include: caption and catalog images for inclusion in the archive, select photographs, oversee use of images in layout, provide all documentation for rights to publish images, and ensure accuracy of captions and credits in final projects as assigned. Interns receive hands-on training in graphical asset management, printing/web graphic arts procedures and the basics of copyright as it applies to images.

• Review, photo-edit and catalog metadata of current photographic assets (including photographer, location, caption, key words, etc.).
• Work with marketing staff to develop and maintain effective strategies and systems for organizing and storing electronic images and related documentation through asset management software. Format and store all digital assets appropriate for RTC's permanent archives for successful retrieval.
• Work with staff from across RTC to provide appropriate, relevant photos that reflect RTC's developing visual identity.
• Research opportunities to procure images to expand RTC's photo library.

Qualifications:

Qualified interns will be students in undergraduate or graduate programs related to library sciences, computer sciences, graphic production, communications or the equivalent, seeking on-the-job experience, or professionals looking to hone their skill set. Candidates should have the ability to work independently, under pressure and meet tight deadlines. Experience with photography is also preferable.

Experience, Knowledge, Skills:

• Detailed technical knowledge of electronic graphics issues.
• Highly familiar with PC platform.
• Familiarity with image or asset management software desirable. Experience with publishing software, such as Photoshop and Illustrator, also a plus.
• Knowledge of printing/web graphic procedures and terms. Understanding of resolution (DPI) and image file formats.
• Exhibit ability to handle multiple priorities, assimilate information quickly and establish priorities in a demanding atmosphere.
• Analyze problems and implement appropriate solutions quickly and effectively.
• Good conceptual thinking, writing, editing, and verbal communications. Excellent organizational and research skills.
• Acts as a resource to others to solve problems.
• Both adaptable and adept at both long-term planning.

In all internships, excellent writing and communication skills are necessary. RTC operates off a PC/Microsoft Office platform, and experience in Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint and Outlook is expected. Applicants should be task-oriented, highly organized and possess a strong interest in environmental issues or related studies including trail development.

Compensation: Internships are unpaid, though interns will enjoy the benefits of working in downtown Washington, D.C., in the casual but professional RTC National Office. Easily accessible by metro's red, orange and blue lines, the office is located in the heart of the West End, nearly equidistant between the Foggy Bottom and Dupont Circle stations. Nearby cultural attractions include the Smithsonian, historical monuments, and the trendy Dupont Circle and Adams Morgan neighborhoods.

To Apply:

Please send cover letter and resume, using one form of transmitting your resume. No phone calls please.

Rails-to-Trails Conservancy
Duke Ellington Building
Attn: Elton Clark
2121 Ward Court, 5th Floor
Washington, DC 20037

RTC is an equal opportunity employer and seeks qualified candidates regardless of race, color, gender, disability, or national origin. Women and diverse applicants are encouraged to apply.