Description:

As part of its mission to foster a sense of global responsibility among the next generation of U.S. leaders and consumers, Mercado Global accepts a limited number of U.S. students as interns at our Panajachel, Guatemala offices. The internship offers the opportunity to learn about the inner workings of an international non-profit organization while becoming familiar with the growing Fair Trade industry.
Reporting to and working with the Director of Design & Product Development, the Product Development Intern will play an integral role in the development of Mercado Global’s seasonal collections and the collections for key sales partners such as Levi Strauss and Crate & Barrel. The intern will have the opportunity to see a product at various stages in its lifespan by assisting in the sourcing of local materials, involving trips to our cooperatives to inspiration shoot, supporting the design and development of the collections, and facilitating the creation of some key sales tools such as line sheets and presentations for potential buyers.
This internship provides current and recent college graduates with the opportunity to develop key skills and experience in the fashion world while also helping mothers in Guatemala develop the income opportunities they need to send their children to school. This position provides the opportunity to work with our experienced development team, our Guatemala and U.S. based staff, and the talented women artisans we serve in Guatemala.

Qualifications:

- Current or recent college graduate from an accredited four-year institution
- Academic background in product design or development
- Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, Adobe Photoshop, and Adobe Illustrator
- Photography knowledge preferred
- Excellent organizational skills
- Enthusiasm for Mercado Global’s mission and products
- Flexibility, drive, and a sense of humor

Paid Internship Info:

Unpaid

Hours:

40 hours/week

Start Date:

June 1, 2012

End Date:

, August 10, 2012

Deadline:

March 1, 2012

Additional Info:

Internship Location: Panajachel, Sololá, Guatemala

Key Responsibilities:
- Assist Director of Design & Product Development in the design and product development process, including assisting in materials sourcing and creating of key presentations and tools
- Photograph products and edit product shots for inclusion in sales tools as needed
- Prepare line sheets for each new season of Mercado Global products
- Assist Sales Director in the creation of PowerPoint sales presentations for potential buyers as needed

How to Apply: Please send cover letter and resume to Nora Collins at development@mercadoglobal.org Please indicate “Product Design and Development Internship” in the subject line of your email.

Tags:

International  Development    Women's  Empowerment    Product  Design    International  NGO    Poverty  Alleviation    Economic  Empowerment    Artisans  Development    Fashion  and  Design    Women  and  Development    Sustainable  Development    Indigenous  Rights 

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