JOB SUMMARY:
At CSIS we actively seek to employ a diverse group of people who embody our organizational values. We welcome and encourage individuals of all backgrounds to apply, especially those from traditionally underrepresented groups.
The Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) is a non-profit, bipartisan public policy organization established in 1962 to provide strategic insights and practical policy solutions to decision makers concerned with global security and prosperity. Over the years, it has grown to be one of the largest organizations of its kind, with a staff of some 200 employees, including more than 120 analysts working to address the changing dynamics of international security across the globe.
The iDeas Lab, the award-winning creative and digital production department at CSIS, seeks a highly motivated and creative candidate for a full-time three-month internship, with the possibility of extension to six-months, beginning November 2023. This is an in-person, paid internship with financial compensation commensurate with experience.
The web and information design intern will primarily work on CSIS digital features. These longform multimedia reports bring expert policy analysis to life by incorporating data visualizations, interactive maps and graphics, video, satellite imagery, and audio elements into a single engaging and impeccably-designed product.
This is an ideal opportunity for individuals with a passion for web design, journalism, and research and an interest in working at the intersection of information design, technology, and public policy.
Ideal candidates will have strong creative initiative and self-direction, coupled with a well-honed aptitude for design and a passion for collaboration. The position will work closely on a range of subject matter in partnership with other multimedia professionals and world-renowned policy experts. Candidates should have a passion for public and international affairs and strong visual research skills. Editorial, writing, and data visualization experience is a plus.
The hired candidate will be paid hourly, commensurate with experience ($17.00/hour for current undergraduate hires, $18.00/hour for hires with a bachelor’s degree, and $19.00/hour for hires with a master’s degree).
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Essential functions include, but are not limited to the following:
•Conceptualize and execute interactive web design for media-rich digital features on CSIS.org.
•Present design concepts and products to stakeholders; be able to articulate design thinking and decisions to non-designers and content experts; respond effectively to feedback.
•Collaborate with multimedia producers to mock-up and review data visualization UI and color palettes.
•Work effectively with editorial leads and web developers to problem-solve and create viable design products.
KNOWLEDGE, EDUCATION, AND EXPERIENCE:
•B.A./B.S. in relevant field or other relevant training or experience, including bootcamps or freelance work.
•Substantial experience with CSS, HTML, and independently using online resources to solve design problems.
•Solid understanding of UI best practices.
•Expert understanding of design principles and how to apply them.
•Comfort with design and prototyping tools, such as: Adobe Creative Suite, Sketch, and/or Figma.
•Zest for challenging assignments, with an eye toward finding creative and innovative solutions.
•Interest in global affairs and public policy.
•Professionalism, sound judgment, maturity, and discretion.
•Strong attention to detail, initiative, and follow-through.
•Illustration, writing, and data analysis skills are a plus.
Some technologies used in the iDeas Lab are
•CSS3/SASS, HTML5, JavaScript, and PHP
•Online storytelling and content management systems like Shorthand, WordPress, and Forestry
•Mapping tools like Mapbox, Carto, and Leaflet
•GitHub, Sketch, and Figma
•Monday.com
You don’t need to be proficient in all of these, but you should know some of them. Interest and willingness to learn others is a must.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS AND WORK CONDITIONS:
The physical demands are representative of those that must be met by an employee working in an office environment. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential job functions.
Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability or protected veteran status.
Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer.
HOW TO APPLY:
Interested applicants should submit a resume, a link to a portfolio or samples of past work, and a cover letter to the CSIS website. Please apply through the CSIS website at https://careers.csis.org/.