Full job description
About Downtown Lansing Inc.:
Downtown Lansing Inc. (DLI) is the downtown management agency dedicated to revitalizing and promoting economic development and community engagement in Michigan’s Downtown. A certified Main Street organization, DLI’s mission is to strengthen and nurture the culture, health, and sustainability of Downtown Lansing. Downtown Lansing is home to nearly 200 unique businesses, offering global dining experiences, wide-ranging retail offerings, and unique events and attractions for all ages at all times of the day.
Position Overview:
Get ready to dive into the world of marketing, communications, and event management as you work alongside the DLI team to promote the people, places and stories found in Michigan’s Downtown. DLI’s Marketing and Events Intern will play an active role in planning and executing marketing campaigns, communication strategies, and community events that bring energy and connection to Downtown Lansing. This is a hands-on opportunity to build professional skills in marketing and communication, event coordination, and community outreach, while fostering a more vibrant and transformative community in Downtown Lansing.
Work Schedule:
The internship will start for the Fall 2025-2026 school year with opportunities to extend past the semester. This is a part-time position (approximately 15 to 25 hours). Marketing and events interns are expected to be in the DLI office based on their schedule, with the ability to work remotely as needed.
Key Roles & Responsibilities:
- Support marketing, communications and events campaigns under the direction of the DLI’s Marketing and Brand Specialist as well as the Events and Outreach Manager
- Assist in the development and execution of social media strategies to engage DLI followers across all social media platforms
- Create compelling copy for DLI communications, including newsletters, press releases, event listings and other promotional pieces
- Participate in marketing and communication brainstorming sessions, both internally and with other downtown stakeholders
- Gain hands-on experience in effective measurement and reporting analytics across various marketing and communications channels
- Assist in coordinating DLI events such as Evening of Excellence, Trick-or-Treat on the Square, and seasonal clean-up days. This includes participating in event planning at committee meetings and having a lead role in event management on event day(s).
- Support with event logistics, including setup, teardown, volunteer management, signage, guest check-in and vendor support
- Help recruit, organize and communicate with volunteers and partners
- Contribute to outreach efforts like distributing flyers and engaging local businesses
- Represent DLI at community events and meetings in a professional and friendly manner
- Collect attendee feedback and help with post-event follow-up and reporting
- Perform administrative tasks as needed, including inventory, document tracking and calendar updates
Training and Supervision Framework:
The intern will be supported by DLI staff throughout the internship with a focus on nonprofit marketing, events, and community engagement:
- Orientation & Introduction: A kickoff session introducing DLI’s mission, brand voice, key programs, marketing channels and current initiatives
- Weekly Check-Ins: Regular one-on-one meetings to provide support, answer questions, offer feedback, and align on timelines, deliverables and learning goals
- Skill-Building Projects: Opportunities to lead elements of event planning, social media content creation, campaign research or community outreach with active supervision
- Ongoing Mentorship: Exposure to best practices in marketing, communications and event management
- Final Review & Career Guidance: A concluding session to reflect on projects, review accomplishments and discuss next steps
Ideal Candidate:
- A senior-level student currently enrolled in a college program focused on marketing, public relations, advertising, event management or a related field
- Strong verbal and written communication skills, with excellent organizational abilities and a solid understanding of AP Style writing
- Familiarity with various communications channels and marketing strategies
- Basic knowledge of graphic design, Canva experience, photography and videography, creating reels and other marketing best practices are a plus
- Basic understanding of website management or a strong willingness to learn
- A passion for organizing and orchestrating both small and large events
- Ability to navigate professional relationships and work in a collaborative team, both internally and with volunteers
- Willingness to learn new things and proactively ask questions
- Reliable, detail-oriented, and able to adapt in fast-paced environments
- Available to work some evening or weekend events in Downtown Lansing
To Apply:
To apply, please send your resume to Shakayla Zoss, Marketing and Brand Specialist at DLI, at [email protected], or complete the application on Indeed. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, so early submission is encouraged. Selection will be based on credentials and experience.
Job Types: Part-time, Internship
Pay: Up to $15.00 per hour
Expected hours: 15 – 25 per week
Schedule:
- 4 hour shift
Work Location: Hybrid remote in Lansing, MI 48933
