Lift and Shift Foundation is seeking motivated and creative high school students to join our Web Design team as part of an unpaid, independent internship program. This role offers hands-on experience in web design and development, allowing interns to contribute to innovative projects that support our mission of making STEM more accessible and inclusive.
Web design roles are both technical (coding-based) and non-technical (no coding required), with sub-roles tailored to specific interests and skills. You’ll have the opportunity to develop meaningful projects and hone your expertise in various aspects of web design and development.
Our internships run in three cycles to align with regional academic institutions:
- 12-week fall semester (September–December)
- 12-week spring semester (February–May)
- 9-week summer program (June–August)
Responsibilities
Interns can choose to specialize in one or more of the following sub-roles:
1. UX/UI Specialist for Website (Non-Technical)
- Design and refine user interfaces for the foundation’s main website and subdomains.
- Conduct user experience testing to improve navigation, layout, and accessibility.
- Create wireframes and prototypes using tools like Figma or Adobe XD.
- Implement responsive design principles for a seamless experience across devices.
2. Web App Developer (Arduino/Scratch & CAD)
- Collaborate on designing and building an interactive Arduino/Scratch clone app and a beginner-friendly CAD application.
- Primarily involves HTML CSS and Javascript using GitHub repositories.
- Integrate STEM learning elements into these tools’ interfaces and features.
- Test apps for usability, troubleshoot technical issues, and optimize performance across web browsers.
3. Game and Puzzle Developer
- Design and implement web-based games such as crosswords, Sudoku, or STEM-themed puzzles.
- Collaborate on creating educational and recreational content to support STEM learning.
- Test games for usability and refine features to enhance user engagement.
- Develop analytics tools to track user interactions and game popularity.
4. Flutter App Developer
- Build a Flutter-based mobile app for our collection of games and puzzles.
- Focus on creating a user-friendly and visually appealing interface.
- Integrate cross-platform functionality to ensure smooth operation on iOS and Android.
- Collaborate with the Game and Puzzle Developer sub-role to incorporate their projects into the app.
5. Project Manager (Non-Technical)
- Use GitHub’s project management features to organize tasks, track progress, and ensure deadlines are met.
- Work with web designers to facilitate smooth collaboration.
- Create and maintain project timelines, task boards, and status updates.
- Provide regular feedback to team members and report progress to the founder.
Required Skills and Qualities
- Creative Thinking: Ability to conceptualize innovative solutions and designs.
- Technical Skills: Familiarity with basic web design or coding tools (e.g., HTML, CSS, JavaScript, or mobile frameworks). Training is provided as needed.
- Collaboration: Willingness to work independently and in teams across time zones.
- Adaptability: Eagerness to learn new tools and technologies quickly.
- Organization: Strong time management and task coordination skills for those interested in the Project Manager role.
What You’ll Gain
- Real-world experience in web design and application development.
- Portfolio-worthy projects that demonstrate your skills in UX/UI, coding, app development, or project management.
- Mentorship from the founder and an opportunity to contribute to a nonprofit’s mission.
- A deeper understanding of how to design tools that make STEM more accessible.
Commitment
- Flexible schedule: Approximately 6-10 hours per week over 12 weeks.
- Remote opportunity: Work from home with virtual check-ins via Slack or video meetings.
Join the Lift and Shift Foundation and contribute your talents to projects that inspire and empower the next generation of STEM learners!
