Arena Careers

The Democratic Association of Secretaries of State (DASS) is the leading organization committed to electing and defending Democratic Secretaries of State — the frontline guardians of our democracy. As the second Trump administration relentlessly attacks democratic institutions and norms, the mission of DASS has never been more urgent. DASS is taking bold action to protect the fundamental right to vote, strengthen election integrity, and expand access to the ballot box, ensuring every American has a voice in our democracy.

The Opportunity: As the Video Editing & Digital Communications Intern, you will help produce and edit videos and other digital assets for DASS. In this role, you will be a part of a highly collaborative, fast-paced, and friendly team that works with donors, partners, and campaigns. While working to elect Democratic State Secretaries, you will learn the ins and outs of working at a committee, and be a part of these critical electoral efforts going into the November 2026 elections.

Job Responsibilities:

• Working alongside the DASS Communications Director and Digital Communications Coordinator to create and edit compelling video content.

Video Editing:

• Edit and assemble video footage into engaging videos, adding graphics, music, text overlay, stock footage, transitions and other special effects and ensuring they align with brand identity.
• Create compelling short video clips from longer form videos.
• Organize and maintain video assets, footage, graphics, and project files using Google Drive.
• Collaborate with the team to brainstorm and develop ideas for video projects.
• Assist with drafting copy for social media accounts.
• Assist with creating graphics for the DASS social media accounts, fundraising efforts, and directly for Secretary of State campaigns across the country.
• Other digital projects as assigned.

Additional Requirements:

• Basic knowledge of video editing software (e.g., Adobe Premiere Pro, Adobe After Effects, Final Cut Pro, or similar).
• Knowledge of current video design trends (particularly Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube), typography, transitions, cuts and styles.
• Understanding of optimization and best practices for video specifications on DASS social channels.
• Experience with graphic design platforms, such as Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, Adobe InDesign, and Canva. Similar or free programs also apply!
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office including, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc. and other web tools such as Google Docs, Sheets, Drive, Gmail, etc.
• Strong communication and team collaboration skills.
• A portfolio or examples of prior video editing work (if available).
• Creative, detail-oriented and organized.
• Ability to work independently and manage time effectively in a virtual environment.
• Passionate about electing pro-democracy Secretaries of State.

Hiring Process:

• Applicants are to submit their resumes and portfolios.
• Applicants submissions will be reviewed and select candidates will be asked via email to complete an assessment of their current skills including:
  • A written statement of interest.
  • A short video prompt as provided by the hiring manager.
  • A simple graphic prompt as provided by the hiring manager.
• Applicants with selected assessments will complete a virtual, 1-on-1 interview with the Digital Communications Coordinator.
• Applicants who are interviewed will receive an email with the hiring manager’s decision.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Applicants must be 18 years of age on or before the first day of the internship and meet at least one of the following criteria:
  • Currently enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program at a college, community college, or university (two-to-four year institution). It is highly recommended that applicants complete at least one full term prior to submitting an application.
  • Graduated from an undergraduate or graduate program at a college, community college, or university (two-to-four year institution) no more than one year before the first day of the internship.

Applicants must meet all of the following criteria:

• Commitment of 20 hours per week during the program
• Physically present in the United States

Physical Requirements: DASS is committed to supporting employees of varying abilities and to providing reasonable accommodations to enable individuals with disabilities to thrive at DASS.The requirements of this role, related to its physical demands, described here are representative of those that must be met to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

All DASS interns must be able to operate a computer and use a cell phone. Applicants with questions about accommodations may request to speak with our hiring manager.

Equity and Inclusion: DASS is committed to an inclusive and equitable environment and diversity among its team and recognizes that its continued success requires the highest commitment to engaging, retaining, and supporting a diverse staff that provides the best quality services to supporters and constituents. DASS is an equal opportunity employer and it is our policy to recruit, hire, train, promote and administer any and all personnel actions without regard to sex, race, age, color, creed, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, physical or mental disability, personal appearance, marital status, family responsibilities, genetic information, or any other legally protected basis. DASS will not tolerate any unlawful discrimination and any such conduct is strictly prohibited.

How to Apply: Please complete this form and upload a resume, a brief note about your interest in the position, samples of any professionally created/edit video(s), and two professional references to no later than June 20th, 2025.

All interns are expected to work 20 hours/week during the internship and will receive $900/month, and a $100/month technology stipend.

DASS may review applications after this deadline in limited circumstances, however this is not a guarantee that your application will be considered if it is not submitted by June 20th, 2025.. When an applicant with a disability needs an accommodation to have an equal opportunity to compete for this position, they may request it in writing by emailing [email protected]. No calls please. Applicants will be screened on a rolling basis.