The Michigan Suburbs Alliance is seeking a motivated, detail-oriented individual to serve as a Photography Intern. This individual should possess a strong desire to learn about the use of photography in a nonprofit’s marketing, publication design and brand development as well as an eagerness to offer thoughtful suggestions and critical analysis. The position will emphasize extensive photograph-taking in locations throughout southeast Michigan, while incorporating image editing and administrative responsibilities. This internship is an excellent opportunity for anyone interested in building a diverse portfolio while developing skills in nonprofit communications.

The successful candidate is well-organized, proactive and committed to regional issues. She or he should be able to balance organizational responsibilities with independent project management. Anticipated assignments include taking and editing photos, updating website imagery to improve its effectiveness, selecting photos for publications, partnering to develop graphics for publications, creating an online image archive system and securing partner logos.


Qualifications
• Experience taking and editing photographs
• Ability to balance multiple assignments and meet deadlines
• Positive attitude
• Independence tempered by the ability to follow direction and abide by a work plan
• Ability to interact professionally with staff and associates
• Strong organizational skills evidencing attention to detail
• An excellent sense of humor (or at least the potential for one to develop)


Benefits to the Student
• Practical, real-world experience that will help you to transition into a successful career in either the public or private sector
• Opportunities to network with a wide variety of key stakeholders in the region
• Learn about the role that photography plays in strengthening regionalism and local governments
• Develop a portfolio of diverse imagery from locations throughout southeast Michigan
• Fun and flexible work environment!


Hours
Hours will be flexible and determined based on the student’s schedule and availability. We ask for a minimum of 16 hours per week, some of which will be completed off-site.

Timeline
Positions are filled on a rolling basis. Orientation will take place in September 2008.


Organizational Background
The Michigan Suburbs Alliance, a nonprofit registered in the State of Michigan, was established by a group of mayors and city managers from Wayne, Oakland and Macomb Counties. These leaders gathered in April 2002 and agreed to explore how they could work together to educate themselves and the public about the root causes of problems facing older, established suburbs. In June 2002, representatives from fourteen metro Detroit suburban cities unanimously agreed to form the Michigan Suburbs Alliance, which has since grown to encompass thirty-two member cities with over 1,000,000 residents.


Mission
The Michigan Suburbs Alliance unites and strengthens metropolitan Detroit’s mature suburbs by elevating regional cooperation, reforming public policies and innovating redevelopment strategies.


Equal Opportunity Employment Policy
The Michigan Suburbs Alliance is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The organization is committed to maintaining a workplace free of discrimination and harassment. We recruit, hire, train and promote individuals in all positions without regard to race, color, creed, religion, ancestry, sexual orientation, national origin, age, sex, physical or mental disability, being a disabled veteran, veteran of the Vietnam era or other eligible veteran. At the Suburbs Alliance, we are committed to a fair and equitable workplace where everyone is a respected and valued member of the team.

Email resume, cover letter and writing sample to Brittany Galisdorfer at Brittany@SuburbsAlliance.org. All applicants must submit a writing sample, approximately one page, double spaced. Writing samples can include class papers, articles, short stories, etc.