Design Intern (Fall 2026)

Terms of Service:Fall Internship10-15 hours per week between Monday-Friday. Scheduling is flexible and can be coordinated around academic commitments.Compensation: $20/hrHybrid Structure:This is a hybrid role with a mix of in office and remote work. We're looking for someone who is excited to be in the office regularly to collaborate, learn, and be part of the team.Role Overview: The Design Intern will be supporting the design team in translating client strategy into visual identity systems, digital experiences, and physical collateral. This role follows a structured, multi-unit program led by our Design Directors, focusing on the evolution of brand and production projects while translating strategy handed down by senior members of the creative team. Throughout these developed units, you will work closely with leadership to understand how ideas evolve from research and concepting into final, high-fidelity execution across multiple mediums.Clients choose to work with us both because of what we do and who we are and your help to build, maintain, and grow our team is invaluable to our success.Job ResponsibilitiesUnit 1 & 2: Foundations & Design ThinkingParticipate in team meet-and-greets and 1:1 sessions with leadership to gain exposure to the Second Melody mission and client rosterLearn design research best practices and see how insights inform comprehensive design briefs based on scope, problem, and budgetCollaborate with directors to explore conceptual "Big Ideas" and build confidence in communicating design decisionsUnit 3 & 4: Systems & ExecutionExplore the connection between visual identity and brand narrative while learning how to maintain consistency across complex applicationsGain hands-on exposure to bringing concepts to life through the production phase, including print preparation and vendor coordinationDevelop an eye for quality control by observing the review of technical specs, materials, samples, and physical proofsUnit 5: Digital Experience & InteractionAssist in translating established brand identities into digital environments while learning usability and accessibility best practicesGain an understanding of how design decisions impact development and observe the requirements for a successful technical handoffHands-On Project WorkApply skills and observations from all program units to active or simulated client projects alongside the design teamIntegrate into the studio culture through participation in internal reviews, team critiques, and cross-functional huddlesGain experience with professional workflow management, including how to navigate timelines, priorities, and revisions under mentorshipRequirementsWork requirements for the position:Design experience across multiple mediumsPossession of creative flair, versatility, conceptual/visual ability and originalityAbility to backup ideas and designs with research and reasoningAbility to interact, communicate and present ideas internallyAbility to defend choices made with research and examplesUp to date with industry leading software and technologiesRealism regarding time and deadlinesBehavioral Requirements for the position:Highly organized, disciplined, driven and energeticPays close attention to direction and knows when to check-in or ask for assistanceExercises excellent judgment in determining what can and cannot be efficiently accomplished prior to receiving approval/directionDiscrete and trustworthy with sensitive firm and customer informationDemonstrate an understanding and commitment to Second Melody, our goals and our growthBe resourceful. Focus on solutions rather than problemsAbout Second Melody:Second Melody is a branding studio located in Chester and Montclair, New Jersey specializing in identity development, messaging, customer engagement, website design, collateral creation and user experience. Our mission is to make the world a more beautiful place while helping our clients solve problems by building better, stronger and more inclusive brands that accurately represent their visions, passions and business goals.We help our clients explore their brands, evolve their brands and elevate them all with defined goals, a single voice and an aesthetic consistency that drives growth and revenue (hooray).