Spring 2024 interns must be physically located in and have a local address in Virginia, Maryland, or the District of Columbia during the duration of their internship.
Interns are required to be onsite for the majority of their workweek. Ideally, onsite days should align with the Foundation’s hybrid schedule which currently requires all staff to be onsite on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. If interns cannot be onsite on these days, an onsite schedule should be discussed during the interview process.
Hired interns will be provided a laptop and necessary software for the expected duration of their assignment.
Applications will not be considered after December 1. To apply, click the “Apply Now” button at the bottom of the position description. If applying for more than one internship, you must submit separate applications for each position.
You must complete the entire online application within three days to be considered for an internship.
- Cover letter with brief personal statement and outline of career goals.
- Resume listing relevant courses, previous experience, and special skills. No transcripts please.
- Writing sample (no more than 3 pages; not required for Graphic Design). Example can be something you’ve already written for a previous class or assignment.
- 3 design samples (required for Graphic Design applicants only).
For questions or concerns, please email
internships@wolftrap.org.
AVAILABLE INTERNSHIPS:
Communications & Marketing
Development
Education Administration, Early Childhood
Education Administration, Community Programs
Human Resources, (Benefits & Employee Relations)
Human Resources, (Recruiting & Training)
Information Technology
Production & Sound
Opera Artistic Administration
Ticket Services
Help capture the Wolf Trap experience while enhancing your expertise of visual storytelling! Social Media interns have a hands-on role in telling the Wolf Trap story through visual & digital media. Responsibilities include assisting with community engagement and content production for Wolf Traps social media channels, documenting select performances and events, crafting posts and editing written content, and updating our video and photo databases
- Assist with research and content production of materials related to performances at The Barns and the Filene Center
- Document the Wolf Trap experience using photography and videography
- Serve as House Photographer for select Wolf Trap performances at The Barns and special events. Assist professional photographers during contracted shoots
- Brainstorm, pitch, and create compelling multimedia stories that generate excitement about the Wolf Trap experience and build support for our concerts and program work
- Populate online events and social media sites with Wolf Trap performance detail
- Work with managers to provide support for the Foundation’s social media efforts, including assisting in the preparation of content on social media sites
- Craft promotional articles, artist biographies, media alerts, etc. and help to maintain supporting documents and talent contacts
- Pull weekly social media metrics
- Proofread and edit copy
- Contribute to management of photo and video archives. This includes selecting the best images and editing, color correct, and optimize photos from each assignment; and maintaining a current b-roll library of Wolf Trap activities
- Facilitate cross-departmental communications by assisting others in accessing video and photo assets
Requirements
- Must be available to work nights and weekends 2-4 times a week
- Background in photography and/or videography, either through extracurriculars, academic experience, or professional internship experience
- Background in contributing to management of professional social media accounts; working knowledge of Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok, Threads, X on a professional level
- Excellent communication & solid writing skills
- Interest & enthusiasm for social media platforms
- Access to basic still camera equipment, including a 35 mm digital camera; knowledge of and experience working with a variety of lenses, tripods, flashes, filters, and light kits preferred
- Working knowledge of Adobe Photoshop and video editing software
- Portfolio required at time of interview
CLOSED
Marketing
Learn the ins and outs of marketing for a nonprofit arts organization in a diverse role that helps drive ticket sales and attendance, while assisting in promotions, events, and more. You will assist with the creation and implementation of advertising campaigns including grassroots outreach, direct mail pieces, email marketing and more.
- Gather marketing assets from artist management to help support summer season show announcements and on sales
- Research grassroots marketing tactics to drive ticket sales
- Generate targeted email lists through customer relationship management software to support marketing campaigns
- Assist with summer brochure distribution campaign
- Occasional involvement with Wolf Trap promotional events
- List shows on external website calendars to increase exposure of Wolf Trap’s summer season
- Assist in gathering and trafficking campaign deliverables for multi-channel marketing campaigns
- Other duties as assigned
Requirements
- Creativity, initiative, organization, and strong attention to detail
- Ability to work both independently and in team environments
- Strong writing and editing skills
- Demonstrates strategic and critical thinking skills
- Working knowledge of the Washington DC media market and understanding of the performing arts patron a plus
- Marketing students (or related area of study) preferred
CLOSED
Graphic Design
Work on a wide range of creative projects in this exciting, fast-paced environment. Receive hands-on professional experience and mentorship while enhancing your design portfolio! As an integral part of Wolf Trap’s creative team, you will design signage, program magazine layouts, invitations, print/Web ads, and more.
- Juggle several projects simultaneously and learn how to build production schedules and meet deadlines
- Prepare work for prepress, review proofs, and communicate with printers
Requirements
- Talented graphic design students with an interest in performing arts or music preferred
- Strong technical skills in Adobe creative suite (InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator) on Mac platform
- Strong understanding and appreciation for typography
- HTML and motion graphic skills a plus
- Strong proofreading skills
- Must be detail-oriented
- Minimum of three portfolio samples showing type and layout skills required
CLOSED
Publications
The Publications Intern will support the Communications & Marketing team by writing, editing, and reviewing copy for Wolf Trap’s print and digital platforms. Through strategic and creative storytelling, this intern will help support Wolf Trap’s institutional marketing goals and enhance the Wolf Trap experience for thousands of concert-goers!
- Assist with collecting, editing, and proofreading artist biography information for print and digital publications
- Research, write, and edit feature content pieces for program books, Wolf Trap’s All Access blog, and other public communications
- Provide support for creating print/digital program books and coordinating publication review processes
- Contribute to brainstorming content ideas that tell Wolf Trap’s story to our various communities and audiences
Requirements
- A strong, creative writer with an interest in the performing arts
- Copyediting skills and a sharp attention to detail
- Excellent skills in research and organization
- Familiarity with AP Style is preferred
- Communications, public relations, and journalism majors are preferred, however, great writing samples will make you stand out no matter your focus
CLOSED
Audience Development & Marketing
Learn the ins and outs of marketing for a nonprofit arts organization in a diverse role that helps drive ticket sales and attendance, while assisting in promotions, events, and more. You will assist with the creation and implementation of advertising campaigns including grassroots outreach, direct mail pieces, email marketing and more.
- Coordinate grassroots marketing efforts to drive ticket sales: email marketing, flyer distribution, promotions, etc.
- Lead summer brochure distribution campaign
- Proof and edit print advertisements
- Research areas for expanding exposure to targeted audiences
- Assist with planning and implementation of promotional events
Requirements
- Creativity, initiative, organization, and strong attention to detail
- Strong writing and editing skills
- Demonstrated strategic and critical thinking skills
- Working knowledge of the Washington DC media market and understanding of the performing arts patron a plus
- Marketing students (or related area of study) preferred
CLOSED
Education Communications
The Education Communications Intern will support the Communications & Marketing team by writing copy for print and online platforms, and helping to develop and implement public relations tactics for Wolf Trap’s education initiatives, including Wolf Trap Institute for Early Learning Through the Arts, Internships, and Community Programs. Through creating multi-purpose content, writing and editing artist profiles, assisting with press attendance, assisting with social media outreach and blog posts, tracking PR coverage, and more, the intern will support Wolf Trap’s institutional and communication goals related to Education. While this position is based in Communications & Marketing, the Education Communications intern will interface regularly with the Education Department.
- Write and edit artist profiles, promotional articles, and copy for publications and online platforms – such as the blog and various social media platforms
- Conduct/coordinate local media outreach
- Document in-person events for social media
- Proofread and edit copy
- Assist with upkeep of a variety of digital and social communication tools
- Learn media tracking tools and assist with PR coverage
Requirements
- Strong writing skills
- Copyediting skills and a sharp attention to detail
- Excellent skills in research and organization
- Familiarity with social media platforms, primarily Twitter, basic knowledge of analytics a plus
- Photography, basic photo and video editing skills a plus
CLOSED
Special Events & Event Rentals
Work behind the scenes with the Special Events team, assisting with the daily planning, logistics, coordination, and execution of Wolf Trap’s major fundraising events that help raise $1.5 million annually. You will also join in on the excitement of hosting private events at Wolf Trap’s many unique facilities, assisting with the daily functions of the Facility Rentals program.
- Coordinate set-up and on-site registration at events
- Assist with event invitation and RSVP process by managing information in the donor database
- Execute membership fulfillment and cultivation events
- Manage logistics for Facility Rentals projects and events
- Interact with donors, prospects, and board members on the phone, through email, and on-site at events
- Other projects include planning silent auctions, members-only trips, marketing/outreach efforts for large events, and industry research
Requirements
- Strong computer skills (MS Word and Excel), experience with Raiser's Edge software is helpful but not necessary
- Outstanding writing, communication, and interpersonal skills
- Efficient organizational skills and ability to multitask
- Exceptional customer service skills, creativity, and initiative
CLOSED
Fundraising & Donor Relations
Be an integral part of Wolf Trap’s fundraising department, working closely with the leadership giving and annual fund teams. You will participate in stewardship and cultivation events, assist with leadership giving solicitation strategy and gift proposals.
- Assist with preparation for cultivation and stewardship events
- Assist with writing major gift proposals and briefing sheets
- Research prospective funders
- Manage donor and prospect information in donor database
Requirements
- Strong computer skills (MS Word and Excel), experience with Raiser's Edge software is helpful but not necessary
- Outstanding writing, communication, and interpersonal skills
- Efficient organizational skills and ability to multitask
- Exceptional customer service skills, creativity, and initiative
CLOSED
Education Administration, Early Childhood
The Education Administration-Early Childhood intern will work closely with the Wolf Trap Institute team to facilitate and promote a wide range of programs for learners of all ages from children and families to teachers.
Institute for Early Learning Through the Arts
- Support planning and coordination of Institute services (local, national, and international) to include classroom residencies and trainings, professional development workshops and trainings, family involvement workshops, Institute events, and special projects
- Assist in coordination of resource development, logistical planning and communication for services, professional development trainings, and events for National and Affiliate Services, DC/MD/VA Program, and Professional Development Trainings
- Collect survey responses, compile and evaluate data, and assist with program reporting to share program efficacy and impact with partners, funders/donors, and national affiliates
- Collaborate with Institute team to support special initiatives and program improvement addressing partner priorities and national trends in early childhood and arts-integrated education
- Participate in opportunities to deepen understanding of Institute programs such as residency planning meetings, teaching artist professional development trainings, and observations of Institute programs in early childhood classrooms/centers
- Create and edit content for print materials and social media outlets
CLOSED
The Education Administration, Community Programs intern will work closely with the Internships & Community Programs team to facilitate and promote a wide range of programs for learners of all ages from children and families to college students and teachers.
- Contribute to the planning and implementation of the Internship and Apprenticeship Program, Grants for Performing Arts Teachers, Field Trips, and Children's Theatre-in-the-Woods
- Coordinate and implement events for the Internship and Apprenticeship Program
- Contribute to the marketing and promotion of Children's Theatre-in-the-Woods and the Internship and Apprenticeship Program
- Research prospective artists for future seasons of Children's Theatre-in-the-Woods
CLOSED
Human Resources, Benefits & Employee Relations
The Human Resources, Benefits & Employee Relations intern will work closely with the Human Resource Generalist and the Senior Director, Human Resources to support a diverse range of Human Resources and Benefits activities for approximately 100 employees and 550 seasonal/variable staff. Responsibilities may include assignments and special projects such as:
- Provide administrative support including employee records management, filing and archiving
- Background check administration
- Assist with orientations, onboarding process, policy development and staff event planning
- Participate in evaluation of current Human Resources processes and implementation of improvements to streamline and gain efficiency
- Assist with benefit plan renewals and Open Enrollment
- Make recommendations and updates to the staff intranet
- Draft standard position description language; update position description templates and format existing position descriptions
- Research and analyze best practices in Human Resources; assess current or proposed programs and initiatives against best practices; recommend and develop new programs to meet departmental objectives
Requirements
- Ability to handle and maintain the confidentiality of highly sensitive information
- Strong work ethic, positive attitude and professional demeanor
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills
- Strong organizational, customer service and project management skills
- Course of study or prior internship experience in Human Resources preferred
CLOSED
Human Resources, Recruiting & Training
The Human Resources, Recruiting & Training intern will work closely with the Human Resource Generalist and the Senior Director, Human Resources to support a diverse range of Human Resources and Recruiting & Training activities for approximately 100 employees and 550 seasonal/variable staff. Responsibilities may include assignments and special projects such as:
- Provide administrative support including employee records management, filing and archiving
- Process seasonal/variable hiring requests
- Assist with hiring and onboarding process, policy development and staff event planning
- Participate in evaluation of current Human Resources processes and implementation of improvements to streamline and gain efficiency
- Assist with Foundation training
- Make recommendations and updates to the staff
- Draft standard position description language; update position description templates and for-mat existing position descriptions
- Research and analyze best practices in Human Resources; assess current or proposed programs and initiatives against best practices; recommend and develop new programs to meet departmental objectives
Requirements
- Ability to handle and maintain the confidentiality of highly sensitive information
- Strong work ethic, positive attitude and professional demeanor
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills
- Strong organizational, customer service and project management skills
- Course of study or prior internship experience in Human Resources preferred
CLOSED
Gain essential technical experience working with the Wolf Trap Foundation Information Technology team!
- Troubleshoot computer and mobile device hardware and software issues
- Assist with end-user Help Desk and AV requests
- Deploy new computer workstations
- Setup and manage the yearly computer and electronic equipment recycling pickup
- Other projects will be assigned as needed, based on abilities and interests
Requirements
- Working knowledge of Windows XP, 7, 8.1, 10, MAC OSX, iOS and Android.
- Proficiency in MS Office 2010 & 2013
- Basic knowledge of TCP/IP and networking
- Excellent troubleshooting skills
- Ability to communicate well, both in written form and verbally
CLOSED
Production & Sound
Assist with stage set up, load-in, hospitality, sound, and lighting for performances ranging from chamber music to rock and roll.
Requirements
- Prior university level concert production experience, especially with an interest in sound reinforcement.
- Ability to lift heavy items and work an evening and weekend schedule.
CLOSED
Opera Artistic Administration
Assist Wolf Trap Opera & Classical Programming in the daily operations of the department, which includes:
- Create and manage posts for the Wolf Trap Opera social media profiles
- Tracking Artist and Creative Staff Housing
- Liaising with artists to prepare for the summer season
- Aid in the financial preparations for summer contractors
Requirements
- Interest in pursuing a career in opera or classical music administration
- Strong computer skills (Word, Excel, Publisher)
- Strong organizational & communication skills
- Previous experience with a performing arts organization strongly recommended
CLOSED
Ticket Services
Assist with ticket operations for upcoming performances, which helps increase Wolf Traps exposure and reputation. Handle requests, and assist with performances at The Barns at Wolf Trap. Applicants should be personable as they will interact directly with patrons, group leaders, and donors.
- Provide relevant ticket information to internal and external customers
- Financial reconciliation and reporting
- Learn ProVenue ticketing system and relevant ticketing reports
- Assist with creating statements for The Barns at Wolf Trap
- Assist with running lists for welcome emails and marketing lists for The Barns
Requirements
- Strong customer service skills, business writing, creativity, and initiative
- Outstanding writing, communication, and interpersonal skills
- Strong computer skills including knowledge of Microsoft Office
- Attention to detail
- Enthusiasm and initiative
CLOSED