Business Programs Intern

Position is open until filled.  Submit resumes attention of David Mark – Director of Customer Experience via email at [email protected]. Please note that physical copies will NOT be accepted.

This internship opportunity provides work experience in the fields of Marketing, Business Development, and Customer Experience within the public transit industry. Under the general supervision of the Director of Customer Experience, the Business Programs Intern performs activities related to marketing LAVTA services. Role responsibilities include administering ridership and fare programs, increasing ridership from business organizations, and educating potential customers on how to ride and the benefits of transit. Activities performed include gathering prospect lists, canvasing commercial parks to meet with stakeholders, and conducting travel training as part of community outreach. This position may also support promotional outreach at community events. 

Responsibilities and Duties:

Marketing: 

• Assist in executing business programs promoting transit ridership in commercial or industrial business parks.
• Work closely with the Operations team and other departments to ensure accurate and consistent messaging.
• Coordinate fulfillment of business-to-business (B2B) toolkit with creative agency.
• Maintain media libraries, including collateral, brand materials and photography.
• Audit shelter and bus stop facilities for implementation of program tactics.
• Audit shelter and bus stop facilities for implementation of program tactics.
• Manage selection and inventory maintenance of promotional items (tchotchkes).
• Support promotional outreach at community events.

Community Relations:

• Conduct on-site visits to businesses and industrial parks to distribute promotional materials, engage with Ownership and Human Resources departments, and gather feedback regarding transportation needs.
• Analyze and provide post visit debrief for community outreach.
• Develop ongoing communication channels and positive relationships with business owners, managers, and employees.
• Ensure adequate stock of promotional items and collateral, distributing them effectively during canvassing activities.
• Participate in employee orientations to promote Wheels activities and services through pop-up event tabling.
• Coordinate and conduct employee travel training, educating on how to utilize the fixed route bus system, including the Clipper electronic fare system and institutional programs. 

Travel within the service area is required.  Vehicle provided. Outreach activities may require participation on weekends and evenings at community events.

Research and Reporting: 

• Conduct research on local businesses and transportation trends to identify potential outreach opportunities.
• Maintain canvassing calendar and schedule.
• Accurately record data from canvassing efforts, including the number of contacts made, materials distributed, and feedback received.
• Prepare reports summarizing outreach activities and findings. 

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: 

• Principles of effective marketing, communications, and community relations.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse audiences.
• Utilization of common software applications including word processing, spreadsheet, and presentation programs.
• Strong research, analytical and organizational skills with attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to prioritize multiple tasks, working effectively and efficiently to meet deadlines.
• Ability to work and interact professionally and collaboratively with others.
• Comfortable with walking and standing for extended periods while canvassing.

Preferred Skills: 

• Knowledge of public transportation systems and benefits.
• Bilingual skills (especially Spanish and Mandarin) are a plus. 

License Requirements:

Must possess and maintain a current, valid California Driver’s License and satisfactory driving record (periodically drives LAVTA vehicles). 

Benefits: 

• Gain valuable hands-on experience in business outreach, community engagement, and transportation planning.
• Develop strong communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills.
• Network with professionals in the transportation industry.
• Contribute to the important mission of promoting sustainable transportation.  

Qualifications:

Education: Current college or university enrollment 

Experience: 2 years’ experience in retail, sales, customer service, hospitality, or related positions whose primary scope of work includes customer interaction. An interest in public transportation is a plus. 

Wage:

Up to $22.00/hour, DOQ  

Classification:

As a temporary internship the only benefit this position is eligible for is paid sick leave. 

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