Graphic Design Intern
Please note this is an in-office position in Raleigh, NC. Local candidates are preferred, but all candidates must be able to be in the office at least 1 day per week and attend night and weekend events.
Location: Raleigh, NC (Onsite)
Duration:
☐ Pre- Season (February – End of Season)
Hours: 20–25 hours/week (based on academic commitments and role needs)
Compensation: Paid internship
About the Courage Formation Program
The Courage Formation Program is the North Carolina Courage’s internship program designed for late-stage undergraduate and graduate students who are intentional about their career path and eager to contribute meaningfully to a high-performing professional sports organization.
This program is built for interns who want more than exposure - it’s for those who want responsibility, real experience, and the opportunity to learn how a world-class women’s soccer club operates behind the scenes. Interns in the Courage Formation are treated as valued contributors, not extra hands.
About the Role
The Graphic Design Intern will support day-to-day operations and special projects within the Marketing Department, contributing directly to the success of the Club throughout the season. This role is hands-on, fast-paced, and best suited for someone who is curious, proactive, and comfortable working in a dynamic environment.
Interns are expected to bring a strong work ethic, a growth mindset, and a willingness to learn quickly while operating with professionalism and accountability.
Key Responsibilities
Design & Creative Execution
- Design and produce graphics for digital channels, including social media, email marketing, mobile app, and website use
- Assist with game-day creative needs, including match graphics, promotions, and real-time content
- Create simple motion graphics or animated assets as needed (experience with animation tools is a plus, but not required)
- Support brand consistency across all visual assets and ensure adherence to NC Courage brand guidelines
Campaign & Content Support
- Collaborate with marketing, social, and partnerships teams on creative concepts and campaign executions
- Assist in developing visual assets for ticketing, promotions, sponsorships, and community initiatives
- Help prepare creative files for multiple formats and platforms
Asset Management & Production
- Assist with organizing, updating, and maintaining the creative asset library
- Support resizing, updating, and versioning of existing creative materials
- Help ensure accuracy, quality, and timeliness of all design deliverables
Game Day & Event Support (as needed)
- Provide on-site design and creative support for matches and special events
- Assist with real-time creative needs in a live sports environment
- Take on additional responsibilities as needed during matchdays
(Responsibilities will vary by department and may evolve throughout the season.)
Learning & Development
As part of the Courage Formation, interns will:
- Gain hands-on experience within a professional sports organization
- Develop practical skills relevant to their field of study
- Receive regular feedback and coaching from their manager
- Gain exposure to matchday operations, cross-functional teams, and Club leadership
- Build a strong foundation for a career in sports, business, or related fields
Additional Opportunities
- Gain hands-on experience designing for a professional sports brand
- Build a diverse portfolio of published work across digital, social, and in-stadium platforms
- Learn how creative teams collaborate with marketing, ticketing, and partnerships
- Receive mentorship and feedback from experienced designers and marketers
Who We’re Looking For
We are looking for interns who:
- Currently pursuing or recently completed a degree in Graphic Design, Visual Communication, Digital Media, or a related field
- College junior, senior, or recent graduate
- Strong desire to learn, grow, and gain real-world design experience
- Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment
- Strong attention to detail and willingness to receive feedback
Required Application Materials
- Portfolio showcasing design work (website link or PDF) is required to be considered
- Portfolio may include digital, social, branding, motion, or illustrative work
- Sports-related work is a plus, but not required
Preferred Experience (Not Required)
- Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign)
- Experience using Canva for quick-turn creative
- Basic knowledge of motion graphics or video tools (After Effects, Premiere Pro, etc.)
- Familiarity with designing for social media, email, and digital platforms
- Interest in sports, live events, or fan engagement
OUR VALUES
We hire through the lens of our Club Values:
Integrity – Transparent, trustworthy relationships with our fans and ourselves.
Community – Creating a sense of belonging in a diverse, inclusive environment
Accountability – Responsible for our words, our actions, and our results.
Respect – Regard for treating others with dignity and acceptance.
Excellence - Strive towards greatness in ourselves, club, and community and culture.
We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, disability, gender identity, marital or veteran status, or any other protected class.
