Careers

Internship & CAST Opportunities

Communications Intern (2024)

Job Description

The Communications Intern works with the Communications Manager to deliver credible, science-based news about agricultural science and technology through CAST communications. This position also works on developing new communication strategies and evaluating existing strategies. The position is open for an internship or practicum experience and is designed to meet academic requirements. Preference given to students with an agricultural background and currently attending a CAST Education Program member institution.

Applications for the Spring (and Summer) 2024 should be received by November 30, 2022.

Wage Range:

$9.00-$14.00/hour, dependent on experience and ability.

Location:

Remote, hybrid, or in-person (Ames, IA)

Hours:

Monday-Friday, 10-15 hours/week, flexible schedule, occasional evenings and weekends for special events

To Apply:

Please send a cover letter, resume, and and 2-3 examples of their communication skills (i.e. blog posts, press releases or articles, short papers [1-5 pages], social media posts, video clips, etc.) electronically or by mail.

Duration:
Six to nine months, pending school schedule or requirements. Priority is to fill the position for January-June 2024. 

Responsibilities may include: 

  • Collaborate with our communications team to curate and communicate credible information related to agricultural science and technology in different formats;  
  • Help develop innovative communication strategies that effectively engage diverse audiences and amplify the impact of CAST;  
  • Assist in evaluating the effectiveness of existing communication strategies, making data-driven recommendations for improvements;  
  • Participate in brainstorming sessions to generate fresh ideas for content, campaigns, and outreach efforts. 
  • Conduct digital monitoring and reporting. 

Background and experience: 

  • Current junior, senior, or graduate students enrolled in a program related to agricultural communication, agricultural education, agricultural sciences and technology, etc. 
  • Demonstrated ability of skills using written and verbal communications tools. 
  • Comfortable using web-based applications and familiarity with social media tools and WordPress websites. 
  • Ability to work independently and comfortable working remotely. 

Application process:   

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, resume, and 2-3 examples of their communication skills (i.e. blog posts, press releases or articles, short papers [1-5 pages], social media posts, video clips, etc.) electronically or by mail to: 

Carlos Back Vianna, Communications Manager 
cvianna@cast-science.org 
CAST 
2625 N Loop Dr #2610 | Ames, IA  50010 | 515.292.2125 

Deadline: 

The application deadline is November 30, 2023. The position is open until filled. CAST is an equal-opportunity employer committed to a welcoming, diverse, and engaging work environment for all employees.   

Volunteer

Communications Audit

Description

Interested volunteer(s) would complete a content audit to assist CAST Board and Staff in determining the following:

  1. Are current versions of CAST products (scientific publications, lesson plans, study guides, webinar videos) reaching our intended audience?
  2. What channels are people physically engaging through to access CAST publications and resources?
  3. What does engagement look like with CAST and CAST publications beyond likes and shares?
  4. What would be recommended metrics to determine reach and engagement?
  5. What should we consider as we explore expanding our delivery method of our product (podcasts, infographics, blog, etc.) in terms of metrics, resources, etc.?

Volunteer Type:

Pro-Bono or Skills-Based

Location:

Remote, hybrid, or in-person (Ames, IA)

Time Commitment:

Estimated 6-9 weeks, flexible schedule

To Apply:

Email Anne Owens, aowens@cast-science.org

Employment

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