Internships

The Merriweather Arts and Culture Center (MACC) offers a competitive, paid Internship Program designed to provide high school and college students with hands-on experience in arts programming, live event production, and nonprofit arts management. Interns work alongside MACC staff and contractors to support concerts and community programs at Merriweather Post Pavilion and throughout Downtown Columbia.

The program is ideal for students with an interest or background in the arts, theatrical or live event production, music, marketing, or arts administration. Through direct involvement in events and day-to-day operations, interns gain practical skills, professional confidence, and exposure to career pathways in the arts and cultural sector.

Internships are part-time and seasonal, with placements offered following an application and interview process. Interns must be available to work on June 12, 13, and 14, 2026; additional dates throughout the summer are flexible and scheduled based on program needs and intern availability. Internships are paid at an hourly rate, and they are open to both high school and college students.

MACC is an equal opportunity employer that values diversity, equity, and inclusion.

GENERAL QUALIFICATIONS

• High school or college student with an interest in the arts, live music production, or nonprofit management

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team

• Reliable, punctual, and able to handle multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment

• Able to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends and holidays

• Able to comfortably move and lift furniture and event supplies (30-45 lbs)

Interns can expect to:

• Gain real experience supporting live performances and community programs

• Learn about event production, artist hospitality, marketing, and front-of-house operations

• Build professional skills and networks in a supportive, mission-driven environment

• Contribute meaningfully to MACC’s goal of growing arts, culture, and community

MACC Interns will work with MACC Staff and Contractors toward the following goals:

• Gain valuable preparation for future career opportunities

• Learn new skills in the focus area of their internship

• Gain a deeper understanding of the work that goes into implementing a program

• Build a professional network of mentors that will support them in achieving their goals

POSITION DETAILS

MACC Internships are part-time and seasonal. Compensation is $15/hour. No benefits are provided. All positions report to the Program Manager.

Marketing & Artist Relations Intern

The Marketing & Artist Relations Intern supports MACC’s engagement with artists and audiences through hospitality, outreach, and content creation. This role is well suited for students interested in arts marketing, communications, artist management, or nonprofit engagement.

Key Responsibilities: Assist with artist hospitality, such as setting up and maintaining green rooms, meeting artists’ needs during events, and supporting artist merchandise sales. This will include setup, customer interaction, and inventory tracking. Help distribute promotional materials and provide information about MACC programs and initiatives to the public. Capture photos and short videos and share content for use by MACC’s communications team. Assist with social media, website, and/or email newsletter content as assigned. Support general front-of-house and event operations as needed.

Preferred Qualifications: Interest or experience in marketing, communications, artist relations, or arts management. Strong interpersonal and communication skills. Comfortable interacting with artists, staff, and the public. Creative eye for photos, video, or storytelling is a plus.

Production Support Intern

The Production Support Intern assists with the technical and logistical elements of live performances and events. This role is ideal for students interested in live event production, theater, music, or backstage operations.

Key Responsibilities: Assist with event setup and breakdown, including staging, equipment, and site preparation. Support audio, lighting, and production crews as directed. Serve as a runner for meals, artist communication, and production needs. Help keep backstage and production areas organized, stocked, and clean. Assist with general event operations and problem-solving during performances.

Preferred Qualifications: Interest or experience in live event production, theater, music, or technical arts. Ability to work in a fast-paced, hands-on environment. Willingness to perform physical tasks, including lifting event supplies (up to 30–45 lbs). Strong teamwork skills and attention to detail.

Email your resume and a letter of introduction to sharniece@merriweatherarts.org!