Blue Earth Graphic Design Intern

Graphic Design Intern 

Blue Earth Marketing, LLC, a division of Ho-Chunk, Inc. 
Location: Sioux City, IA 
Job Type: Full-time Intern | Hybrid schedule 

 Compensation & Benefits

· Compensation will vary depending on experience, education level or degrees obtained, and the cost of living for the assigned work  location.

· Intern employees are categorized as seasonal full-time employees and will accrue one hour of paid sick time for every 30 hours worked. Accrual begins after 80 hours of consecutive employment in Nebraska.

About Ho-Chunk, Inc. & Blue Earth Marketing

Ho-Chunk, Inc. is the award-winning economic development corporation of the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska. Its mission is to drive long-term economic growth and create meaningful employment opportunities for Tribal members.

Blue Earth Marketing is a full-service division of Ho-Chunk, Inc. specializing in strategic marketing, branding, advertising, and communications. With deep expertise in both regional and national campaigns, Blue Earth helps businesses and Tribal enterprises tell their stories in relevant, compelling ways. The agency supports all Ho-Chunk, Inc. divisions while also serving external clients with customized, results-driven solutions. As a Native-owned agency, Blue Earth combines creativity, responsiveness, and purpose to elevate every brand it touches.

Position Summary

The Graphic Design Intern supports the creation and production of digital and print creative assets across web, social, email, video, and traditional platforms. This role collaborates with internal teams and works independently under the guidance of the Creative Director to develop visually engaging materials that support client campaigns and internal initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

· Create digital illustrations, layouts, and designs for social media, email, web, and print

· Design social content tailored to platform-specific best practices (Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, TikTok, etc.)

· Develop email marketing graphics and templates aligned with brand and campaign goals

· Produce digital assets including web banners and display graphics

· Create print materials such as brochures, flyers, business cards, posters, and packaging

· Assist in developing motion graphics and animations for video, social, and web use

· Collaborate with creative, video, and account teams on concept development and project execution

· Maintain proficiency in current design software and complete training on new tools as needed

· Organize and manage project files with consistent naming and backup practices

· Assist in digital asset management and archival processes

· Support creative presentations and business development with mockups and design assets

· Communicate effectively with internal teams and external vendors to meet deadlines

· Stay current on design trends, tools, and best practices

· Assist with AI-enhanced tools for ideation, asset creation, and workflow optimization

· The intern will be responsible for completing all tasks outlined in their summer project plans assigned by managers. Interns must participate in all mandatory internship programming, evaluation periods and professional development sessions. Attending sessions remotely will be determined and approved by program manager.

Qualifications & Experience

. 2.5 GPA

· Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign)

· Experience with motion graphics software such as After Effects or Premiere Pro preferred

· Familiarity with Canva for rapid development of social or marketing content

· Exposure to AI design platforms (e.g., Midjourney, ChatGPT, Adobe Firefly)

· Strong visual communication and foundational design skills

· Understanding of digital, print, and video production workflows

· Portfolio showcasing design across digital, social, print, and ideally motion formats

· Knowledge of social media design best practices and requirements

· Ability to create email-friendly graphics and understand email limitations

· Understanding of responsive web design fundamentals

· Knowledge of print production specifications and processes

· Strong organizational and communication skills

· Ability to manage multiple priorities and accept constructive feedback

· Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design, Graphic Arts, or related field preferred; equivalent portfolio experience considered

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

· Hybrid work environment with both in-office and remote collaboration

· Regular use of computers, design software, and collaboration tools

· Prolonged periods of sitting at a computer workstation

· Frequent use of keyboard, mouse, and design tablets

· Occasional walking, standing, or physical file handling

Schedule & Travel

Travel is anticipated for all new interns and includes a site tour of Dynamic Homes in Detroit Lakes, MN, which typically requires an overnight trip. Lodging, transportation, and other travel expenses are provided. This does not apply to ANG Interns

Interns whose work location is in Sioux City, South Sioux City, Bellevue, Omaha, or Lincoln may be expected to travel to Winnebago, NE, for various professional development sessions with senior leaders within the company and community. Interns may be responsible for commuting to and from the assigned worksite for all required internship programming activities if no company vehicle is available. This does not apply to ANG or Dynamic Homes Interns.

Why Join This Team?

· A mission-driven culture dedicated to economic advancement and community impact

· Guided by strong NATIVE values and tribal-owned purpose

· Career stability and opportunities across diverse industries

· A collaborative work environment that encourages innovation and professional growth

Our Commitment to Diversity

Ho-Chunk, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status. Preference may be extended to persons of Indian descent in accordance with applicable laws.