Intern, Conference Services

HHMI is focused on supporting and moving science forward in a variety of different ways ranging from conducting basic biomedical research, empowering educators, inspiring students, developing the next generation of scientists - even stretching into film and media production. Our Headquarters is in the greater Washington, DC metro area and is home to over 300 employees with expertise in investments, communications, digital production, biomedical sciences, and everything in between. The work housed here supports and augments the groundbreaking research conducted in HHMI labs across the nation. As HHMI scientists continue to push boundaries in laboratories and classrooms, you can be sure that your contributions while working here are making a difference.

Summary:
Each year, HHMI hosts dozens of conferences, meetings, and events at our Headquarters and Janelia Research Campus. These opportunities connect thousands of industry leaders, scientists, fellows, and partner organizations in both virtual and hybrid settings.

As the Intern, Conference Services, you will work collaboratively with our dedicated Conference Services team and other operational partners to support the planning and successful execution of conferences and events while maintaining a high standard of excellence and facilitating positive guest and client experiences.

This internship is full-time (40 hours/week) and reports to HHMI headquarters in Chevy Chase, MD five days per week (Monday-Friday).

Please note:If selected for an opportunity, interns are responsible for securing their own housing for the duration of the internship (12 weeks during the summer months - mid-late May to early-mid August).

What We Provide:

• Working with a team that believes in continuous learning and cultivates an environment where all members help each other.

• Direct, robust mentorship from the Senior Manager, Conferences and Events and members of the Conference Services team.

• Opportunities to develop, apply, and hone your skills in the areas of hospitality, event production and management, meeting planning, housekeeping, hotel support, and guest services.

• Professional development and being part of an engaging intern cohort

• This position will be compensated at a rate of $17.15-$21.00/hour.

What You'll Do:

• Rotate through a variety of areas within Conference Services to gain a broad scope of understanding, including:

  • Learning about and supporting event production and management.

  • Assisting with planning meetings - supporting meeting room set-up and maintenance, getting trained on meeting room resource scheduler, learning how to write a meeting resume, and sharpening your skills on taking effective meeting notes.

  • Learning Front Desk duties and responsibilities.

  • Learning departure and shuttle scheduling.

  • Cross-training on name badge production.

  • Supporting housekeeping and hotel operations.

  • Shadowing conference lead during events.

  • Learning to display critical thinking and strategy to resolve logistical issues.

  • Exposure to leadership in guest hospitality, exemplifying excellent customer service.

• Have the opportunity to lead and manage a relevant work project

• Current enrollment in a bachelor's degree program with a focus on hospitality, hotel management, event/conference/meeting management, operations, or a related area of study

• Strong initiative, self-motivation, and capacity for creative problem-solving.

• The ability to read, write, and verbally communicate in English.

• Experience using Microsoft Office Suite.

• Organizational skills, customer service skills, teamwork skills, and time management skills.

• Attention to detail with a strong enthusiasm for learning, growing, and being mentored.

• Willingness to work a flexible schedule, including occasional evening and weekend hours.

• Ability to work under pressure at times and maintain composure.

• Ability to build trusting relationships, communicate effectively, and display team spirit.

How to Apply:

To apply for the internship, please submit the following materials:

• a resume, including any relevant courses

• the name and contact information of two references (e.g., teacher, supervisor, mentor, etc.) who can speak to your skills related to this position. These references will not be contacted until after the interview process.

Physical Requirements:

• Occasionally lifts and/or carries objects weighing up to 50 pounds.

• Occasionally stoops and bends.

• Occasionally reaches and grasps with arms and hands.

• Work is performed in a normal office environment where there are relatively few physical discomforts due to dust, dirt, noise and the like.

Persons with disabilities may be able to perform the essential duties of this position with reasonable accommodation. Requests for reasonable accommodation will be evaluated on an individual basis.

Please Note:

This job description sets forth the job's principal duties, responsibilities, and requirements; however, it should not be construed as an exhaustive statement.Unless they begin with the word "may," the Essential Duties and Responsibilities described above are "essential functions" of the job, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act. #LI-NG1

Compensation and Benefits

Our employees are compensated from a total rewards perspective in many ways for their contributions to our mission, including competitive pay, exceptional health benefits, retirement plans, time off, and a range of recognition and wellness programs. Visit our Benefits at HHMI site to learn more.

HHMI is an Equal Opportunity Employer