Public Relations Intern

Walker Sands · Chicago · $18/hr (stated in the posting)

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Walker Sands is one of the fastest-growing integrated B2B marketing agencies in the world. We are looking for a high-impact PR Intern to help fuel that continued growth. Compensation for this role is expected to be $18 per hour.

As an agency, we exist to accelerate growth—for our clients, our people, and the B2B industry. We partner with B2B technology and services companies, from high-growth Silicon Valley businesses to global Fortune 500 brands, to drive meaningful business results. At Walker Sands, curiosity sparks new ideas, collaboration makes the work stronger, and people are at the center of everything we do.

Walker Sands is looking for an ambitious PR Intern to join our Chicago team in a hybrid role, with two in-office days per week. This 12-week, paid internship ($18/hour, 40 hours per week) runs from January 25 through April 16, 2027, and is designed for early-career professionals passionate about public relations, eager to learn, and ready to gain hands-on agency experience.

Our internship program is designed to help launch careers in PR, with the potential to transition into a full-time role based on individual performance and business needs. 

What You Will Do (Responsibilities): 

• Develop and maintain targeted media lists.
• Conceptualize, draft, and execute compelling media pitches.
• Coordinate media opportunities and support outreach to journalists.
• Draft press releases and other PR deliverables.
• Prepare media briefing materials for interviews and other media opportunities.
• Conduct media, industry, and client research to support PR strategies.
• Draft and support speaking and award submissions.

Non-Negotiables 

• You crave candid feedback. You embrace it as a powerful tool for growth.
• You have a nose for a good story. You're naturally curious about the media, current events, and what makes a story newsworthy.
• You have a passion for writing. You have a keen eye for detail, strong grammar skills, and a desire to make good writing even better.
• You're a self-starter. You take initiative, ask thoughtful questions, and are eager to learn and contribute.
• You're adaptable. You can think on your feet, shift priorities, and thrive in a fast-paced agency environment.
• You're driven to grow. You're excited to develop your PR skills, take on new challenges, and make the most of hands-on learning opportunities.

What You Bring (Requirements):

• Experience: Recent graduate or early-career professional with a strong interest in public relations, media, and B2B communications. Previous PR or communications internship experience is a plus, but not required.
• Writing Skills: Strong written and verbal communication skills, with excellent grammar, attention to detail, and the ability to adapt writing for different audiences.
• Media Awareness: Familiarity with current events, media outlets, and emerging trends, with an interest in understanding what makes a story newsworthy.
• Tools: Proficiency in Google Workspace or Microsoft Office. Familiarity with media databases such as Muck Rack or Cision is a bonus.
• Availability: Ability to commit to a full-time, 40-hour-per-week internship for 12 weeks

What We Offer (Compensation + Benefits):

Pay is only a part of the total rewards package. Below is the starting salary for this role:

• Internship Benefits:
  • 🏡 Hybrid Work: Mix of in-office and remote work, with tools to stay connected across teams.
  • 📚 Growth Opportunities: Structured learning program, coaching program, and learning events to help you grow professionally.
  • 🌟 Culture: Our agency values our supportive, collaborative culture where we work hard to achieve the best outcomes for clients. Read more on our website here!
• Our full-time team members enjoy a comprehensive benefits package. In addition to the above, Walker Sands team members have access to:
• • 🩺 Health Coverage: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans, plus mental health resources, pet insurance, fertility benefits, and more.
  • 💰 Retirement Savings: Employer-matched 401(k) and access to financial planning services.
  • 🌴 Flexible PTO: Take time as needed for vacations, mental health, or personal days. Includes 8 paid holidays, half-day summer Fridays, and a week off between Christmas and New Year.
  • 🎉 Milestone Sabbatical: Celebrate five years with a two-week sabbatical and a $2,000 gift.
  • 👶 Family Support: Generous paid leave for new parents and caregivers, plus policies for pregnancy loss, adoption challenges, and more.

#LI-Hybrid

We strongly encourage people of color, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and non-binary people, veterans, parents, and individuals with disabilities to apply. As an equal opportunity employer Walker Sands is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion  and welcomes everyone to our team.

In your application, please feel free to note which pronouns you use (For example – she/her/hers, he/him/his, they/them/theirs, etc).

If you need reasonable accommodation at any point in the application or interview process, please let us know.

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