Social Media Intern – Instagram Focus (Natural History Society of Maryland)

Position Summary

The Natural History Society of Maryland seeks a detail‑oriented Social Media Intern (Instagram focus) to lead an account refresh that strengthens our brand presence and engagement. The intern will conduct a structured audit of the current account, implement a cohesive visual and editorial framework, establish efficient asset and scheduling workflows, and guide staff and volunteers in platform‑specific content capture and best practices. This role provides substantive, portfolio‑quality experience supporting a mission‑driven museum dedicated to natural history, education, and community science.

What You’ll Do (Key Projects & Responsibilities)

Retool & organize the Instagram account

• Conduct a baseline audit (bio, branding, highlights, link‑in‑bio, accessibility/alt text, account settings) and present a short action plan.
• Create/refresh highlight covers and a visual style kit (fonts, colors, lower‑thirds, thumbnail conventions) aligned with NHSM’s brand.

Build a content engine

• Create a simple content strategy and 12‑week editorial calendar emphasizing Reels, Stories, carousels, and behind‑the‑scenes museum content.
• Develop post templates in Canva (or Adobe Express) for common series (e.g., “Specimen Spotlight,” “Field Friday,” “Event This Week,” “Volunteer Voices”).
• Establish a lightweight asset library and tagging system (Google Drive/Airtable) for photos, B‑roll, and captions.

Create and publish engaging content

• Storyboard, film, and edit short‑form vertical video (Reels) with trend‑aware hooks, captions, and on‑screen text.
• Write concise, compelling captions with strong CTAs and relevant hashtags; schedule posts and stories using a social tool.
• Capture and curate content at programs, collections, and exhibits; coordinate with staff to secure timely visuals.

Coach the team

• Draft a 1–2 page “Instagram Field Guide” (best‑practice cheat sheet) and run one training for staff/volunteers on: framing shots, audio, lighting, vertical composition, safe/ethical filming, permissions, and accessibility (alt text and captions).

Measure & iterate

• Set simple KPIs (reach, saves, profile visits, link taps, follower growth) and provide monthly progress snapshots with learnings and next steps.

You Are

• Currently enrolled in a college program with a major/concentration in Social Media, Digital Marketing, Communications, Journalism, or related field (required).
• A confident Instagram user (Reels/Stories/carousels), familiar with trends and editing workflows (CapCut, Premiere Rush, or similar).
• A clear, audience‑first writer who can adapt voice/tone for captions and on‑screen text.
• Comfortable shooting photos and vertical video on a smartphone; basic knowledge of lighting, composition, and audio.
• Organized: able to maintain calendars, name files clearly, and manage a simple asset library.
• Curious about nature, museums, and science communication. (Content knowledge is a plus but not required.)
• You love nature and the outdoors and are excited to capture stories in the field.

Bonus skills (nice to have)

• Experience with Canva/Adobe Express; Google Drive and Airtable; Hootsuite/Later/Buffer or similar.
• Knowledge of social accessibility (alt text, captions, color contrast) and inclusive content practices.
• Basic understanding of community management (replying to DMs/comments), and social listening.

What You’ll Learn

• How to translate a nonprofit’s mission into platform‑native stories that grow reach and engagement.
• Practical content systems: editorial calendars, asset libraries, and simple analytics that inform strategy.
• Museum‑specific content development: working with educators, collections, and volunteers to source great stories.

Schedule & Location

• ~10 hours per week; mostly remote.
• Regular opportunities for in‑person work: field trips, programs/events, and on‑site filming/collection days.
• Collaborate face‑to‑face with museum staff, educators, and curators on select projects.
• Some evening/weekend coverage for events is optional with advance notice.

How to Apply

Please email a resume, 3–5 links to social samples (or a short portfolio/PDF), and a brief cover letter explaining why you’re excited to help retool NHSM’s Instagram to Bronwyn Strong – Program Director (bstrong@marylandnature.org) by November 10. Include “Social Media Intern” in the subject line. No phone calls, please.

Equity & Inclusion

NHSM is an equal opportunity organization. We value diverse perspectives and lived experiences and encourage applicants of all backgrounds to apply.

This is a stipend‑supported, learning‑focused internship. Academic credit can be arranged with your institution upon request.