Public Relations Intern Jobs in Kentucky

INTERNSHIP – Center for Public Service Program Assistant

Division: Internship

Department: Career, Vocation, and Leadership

Experience: Entry-level

Job Code: NA

Supervisor / Reports To: Angela Lockhart / Director of the Center for Public Service (Dr. Tyler Syck)

Internship Window: 7/1/2026 – 8/15/2026

Location: University of Pikeville | Center for Public Service | 147 Sycamore St. Pikeville, KY

Must be a registered UPIKE student

The Program Assistant Intern will support the daily operations and major initiatives of the Center for Public Service, with particular emphasis on civic education programming and the Allegheny Civic Fellowship summer institute. This internship provides hands-on experience in nonprofit administration, event planning, civic programming, communications, and grant development. Interns will work closely with Center leadership while gaining practical exposure to careers in public service, education, and community engagement.

Organization Description (General): The Center for Public Service at the University of Pikeville is dedicated to cultivating civic leadership, community engagement, and public-spirited scholarship across Eastern Kentucky. Through educational initiatives, fellowships, public programming, and partnerships with local institutions, the Center works to strengthen democratic culture and prepare students for lives of meaningful public contribution.

Internship Duties, Responsibilities, and Career Competencies:

• Assist the Director and Program Associate in planning events and managing the Allegheny Civic Fellowship. (C, TW, L, CSD)
• Generate original content for the Center for Public Service’s social media platforms to promote civic initiatives and programming. (C, CT, T)
• Help coordinate and manage the Director’s schedule, including meetings, events, and public engagements. (C, P, CSD)
• Answer phones and assist with general office communication and outreach. (C, P)
• Create engaging instructional and promotional content for the Civics Summer Camp. (C, CT, T)
• Assist in compiling primary source documents and educational resources for local K–12 educators. (CT, CSD, CTR)
• Work with the Director to conduct community outreach regarding civic programming and public events. (C, TW, CTR, L)
• Support the Director and Program Associate in researching and drafting grant proposals. (CT, CSD, P)

Competencies / Skills Developed: Communication (C), Teamwork (TW), Professionalism (P), Career & Self Development (CSD), Critical Thinking (CT), Community Transformation (CTR), Leadership (L), Technology (T)

Qualifications

Current UPIKE student in good academic standing.

Interest in public service, civic education, political science, history, communications, or related fields.

Strong organizational and communication skills preferred.

Experience with event planning, social media, or educational programming is helpful but not required.

Other Skills:

• Strong writing and organizational abilities.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Interest in civic life, education, and community engagement.
• Comfort working both independently and collaboratively.

Work Schedule: Flexible scheduling coordinated with the Director and Program Associate. Hours will vary depending on program needs, particularly during summer Fellowship programming and major civic events.

Number of Positions: 1–2

Pay Rate: Beginning at $8.75/hour

Location: University of Pikeville | Center for Public Service | 147 Sycamore St. Pikeville, KY

Terms: Upon hire, the intern must register for the Summer II Internship course. To receive course credit, students will complete assignments concurrently with internship work. Students are required to work a total minimum of 80 hours and will be eligible for the following credit hours: 80-119 hours of work + course completion = 2 credit hours; 120-159 hours of work + course completion = 3 credit hours; 160-199 hours of work + course completion = 4 credit hours; 200-239 hours of work + course completion = 5 credit hours; 240+ hours of work = 6 credit hours. Summer interns in this position cannot exceed 40 hours of work per week.

Application Notes: Resumes and applications will be reviewed to determine if you meet the required qualifications for the position. If it is determined that you meet the required qualifications, your application materials will be used to identify a top group of the most highly qualified candidates. The University of Pikeville is an equal opportunity employer committed to assembling a diverse, broadly trained faculty and staff. The University of Pikeville does not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, sex, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age or disabilities in its programs, activities, hiring, or the admission of students.