About the New York State Executive Chamber
The New York State Executive Chamber works to meet the needs of all New Yorkers by advancing the Governor’s policy initiatives and agenda, as well as overseeing government operations. We coordinate with state agencies, federal and local governments, and community stakeholders to address issues and develop strategies to serve the people of New York State. Career opportunities range from policy, legal counsel, legislative affairs, communications, operations, appointments, and more. Working in the Executive Chamber is an exciting opportunity to help shape the future of New York and make a significant difference in the lives of millions of New Yorkers. Employees can feel proud of being a part of something bigger and ultimately making changes for the better as part of that work.
Internship Overview
The Office of the Chief Disability Officer (OCDO) within the New York State Executive Chamber is seeking a highly creative, motivated Communications Intern with a background or strong interest in graphic design, visual communications, marketing, and event coordination.
This is a hands-on, production-focused internship, not a passive observer role. The intern will help bring disability lived experience and public initiatives to life through visual storytelling, branded materials, illustrations, and event assets. The role also includes supporting the planning and execution of large, high-visibility public events tied to disability inclusion and state priorities. The ideal candidate is someone who enjoys turning complex ideas into clear, engaging, and visually compelling materials, and who is excited to see their work used publicly.
Key Responsibilities
Visual Design & Creative Production
- Design colorful, accessible graphics, one-pagers, social media visuals, slide decks, and digital materials.
- Create original illustrations, icons, and visual elements aligned with OCDO/Executive Chamber branding.
- Support the visual presentation of major initiatives, reports, and public-facing content
- Help maintain visual consistency across materials while experimenting creatively within guidelines.
Communications & Marketing Support
- Assist with drafting and designing content for public communications, presentations, and outreach.
- Support storytelling efforts that make disability policy understandable and engaging to the public.
- Collaborate with OCDO staff to translate ideas into visual formats.
Major Event Planning & Execution
- Support planning and coordination of a large statewide public-facing event.
- Develop event branding, signage, programs, and digital assets.
- Assist with timelines, materials tracking, and on-site coordination as needed.
- Help ensure the event is visually cohesive, accessible, and engaging.
Project & Workflow Support
- Manage multiple creative projects simultaneously and meet deadlines.
- Organize files, drafts, and assets for internal use.
- Participate in team meetings and creative reviews.
Qualifications & Characteristics
- Strong interest in creative production, not just strategy or writing.
- Proficiency or working knowledge of design tools such as Canva, Adobe Illustrator, InDesign, Photoshop, or similar platforms.
- Strong visual sense for color, layout, and storytelling.
- Comfortable receiving feedback and iterating on designs.
- Organized, reliable, and able to manage multiple tasks.
- Interest in gaining experience in disability rights, inclusion, public service, or social impact preferred.
- Prior event support experience is a plus, but not required.
Requirements
- Residency: must be either a New York State resident, or currently enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program at an accredited college or university in New York State.
- Education: must be currently enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program at an accredited college or university, and must have at least Sophomore standing if enrolled in an undergraduate institution.
- Resume
- Portfolio
*A portfolio is required in order to be considered for this position. Your resume must include a link to your online portfolio, or you may send a follow up email to recruitment@exec.ny.gov with samples of your previous work.
Duration
Summer 2026 (Start and end dates are flexible)
Pay range and compensation package
Paid position
Application Deadline
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until positions are filled.
Equal Opportunity Statement
NYS Executive Chamber is an equal opportunity employer. We encourage women, people of color, LGBTQ individuals, people with disabilities, members of ethnic groups, foreign-born residents, and veterans to apply. We celebrate diversity and do not discriminate based on race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, age, veteran status, disability status, arrest record or criminal conviction history, or any other category protected by law.
We are happy to consider reasonable and religious accommodations during the hiring process. Please send your request to EmployeeRelations@exec.ny.gov.