The City of Takoma Park seeks an intern to assist with preparation and execution of the 2022 City Election, and to support special projects in the City Clerk’s Office. Takoma Park is preparing for a vote by mail election for mayor and city council to coincide with the November 8, 2022 Gubernatorial Election. In addition to vote by mail, the City will operate at least one voting center on election day.
Takoma Park is a progressive, multicultural community that allows 16 and 17-year old residents, and residents who are not citizens of the United States, to vote in the biennial elections for mayor and city council. Elections are conducted using ranked choice voting.
Internships with the City of Takoma Park are commonly for current or recently graduated undergraduate or graduate college students. The election intern is expected to work 30-40 hours/week, for approximately 4 months. Some work will be outside of normal business hours, including some weekend and evening hours.
Typical Duties include:
- Assisting with preparation for the next City Election, which may include preparing promotional materials and informational signage, conducting research, compiling election procedures, maintaining and updating the City voter list, and conducting voter outreach;
- Updating election information on the City website;
- Responding to voter inquiries;
- Attending meetings of the City Board of Elections;
- Supporting other special projects;
- Assisting with routine office functions; and,
- Performing other duties as assigned.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities required to be successful are:
- Strong computer skills;
- Excellent written and oral communication skills;
- Strong organizational skills;
- Strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
- Self-motivated, organized, and able to work with minimal supervision.
Minimum requirements include:
- Knowledge and level of competency commonly associated with the Junior or Senior level coursework associated with a baccalaureate degree in a relevant field; or,
- Any combination of education, training and experience which provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the essential functions of the job;
Preferred candidates may possess the following:
- Foreign language skills (specifically Spanish, French, or Amharic);
- Valid Drivers License
The hourly wage for this position is expected to be between $17.00 and $19.00 per hour and will be offered at a level consistent with the experience and qualifications of the candidate.
In addition to a resume that includes prior work experience and/or education, please provide a cover letter that includes an explanation of why you are interested in the position, as well as a writing sample (maximum of two pages), and a maximum of two
Additional work samples which may include reports, graphics, posters, articles, web pages, etc.
A first review of applications is expected to begin on July 30, 2022, and job will remain open until filled.
Please note that COVID vaccinations are now mandatory for all City staff, and will be confirmed with other pre-employment screenings once an offer has been extended.