KEEN is a values led, outdoor footwear brand with a mission to responsibly create original and versatile products, improve lives, and inspire outside adventure. Founded in 2003, KEEN ignited a revolution in the footwear industry with the introduction of the Newport sandal, launching the concept of Hybrid footwear into the market and setting KEEN on a path of driving consistent product innovation that exists today. As a company, we strive to live by our values, from the products we make to the actions we take, and by activating communities and individuals to protect and preserve the places where we work and play. We passionately endeavor to live fulfilling lives, challenge the status quo, do good, give back, and inspire others. Looking ahead, our vision is to be the most trusted outdoor footwear and lifestyle brand in the world. Discover more about KEEN at keenfootwear.com, facebook.com/keen and twitter.com/keen.
The intern will act as an internal storyteller and PR lead, turning consumer research into engaging content for internal teams.
They will also support the Fan Insights team by managing research databases, fielding surveys, and preparing presentation materials.
What you need
Candidates must be currently enrolled in or recently graduated from an accredited college or university with a degree in Marketing, Business, Communications, or a related field.
Applicants must be able to work 40 hours per week on-site in Portland, Oregon for the duration of the 10-week program.
Are you passionate about sandals, boots, and everything in between? Do you live and breathe sustainability? Do you have a creative eye, a hunger to learn, and a KEEN interest in the outdoor industry? If you said yes to any of the above, we have the perfect opportunity for you!
Position: Fan Insights Communications Intern
Location: KEEN’s Global Headquarters in Portland, Oregon (on-site)
Duration: 10 weeks
Compensation: $22/hour
Program Duration: Monday, June 14th – Friday, August 20th
What You'll Do
As an Intern at KEEN (KEENtern), you’ll dive into the exciting world of footwear, innovation, and community! You’ll get hands-on experience working alongside industry experts and contribute to shaping the future of KEEN.
We’re looking for someone to join the Fan Insights team and level up how we communicate and educate teams across KEEN about who our Fans are and what makes them special. The Fan Insights team is the hub for KEEN Fan knowledge, running surveys, tests, interviews, and studies that help bring the voice of the Fan into our work.
As the Fan Insights KEENtern, you’ll be our internal storyteller and PR lead—turning research into engaging, shareable content that teams can understand and use. We’re seeking a strong writer and creative communicator who can spot a compelling story, translate insights into clear and approachable messages, and bring fresh ideas to life across written, visual, and video formats. You’re organized, proactive, comfortable collaborating across teams, and excited to learn more about consumer insights and the KEEN Fan.
Essential Responsibilities
Create engaging internal content—including short videos, one-pagers, posters, and Campfire posts—that brings Fan stories and research findings to life.
Build and maintain a searchable Fan Library of video clips, quotes, study highlights, and other resources, organized so teams can easily find and use them.
Develop and manage a consistent cadence of internal Fan Insights communications, including Fan spotlights, study recaps, and “What Fans Told Us This Month” updates.
Partner with the Fan Insights team to identify the strongest stories from each study and recommend creative ways to share them across KEEN.
Support consumer research activities, including helping field surveys and studies using Quantilope, dScout, and Qualtrics.
Update PowerPoint presentations and Excel spreadsheets using established templates, including organizing information, creating basic charts, and preparing materials for internal teams.
Provide day-to-day project support to the Fan Insights team, including organizing research materials, documenting key information, and completing assigned tasks with guidance and feedback.
Minimum Qualifications
Currently pursuing or recently completed a bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Business, Communications, or a related field .
Must be enrolled in an accredited college or university at the Junior, Senior, or Graduate level. You will also be considered if you have recently graduated from an accredited college or university.
Must be able to work 40 hours/week during the internship program during normal working hours (Monday–Friday 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM) and be available to work in the office 5 days/week.
What We’re Looking For:
We’re seeking someone who embodies our passion for creativity, sustainability, and the great outdoors. Our ideal KEENtern is:
Passionate: Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, committed to sustainability, or fascinated by footwear trends and innovation, you’re excited to engage with the world around you.
Creatively Minded: You’re detail-oriented, love bringing fresh ideas to life, and have a knack for solving problems.
A Strong Communicator: Whether it’s collaborating with a team or presenting ideas, you know how to express yourself clearly and effectively.
Proactive & Eager to Learn: You’re curious, ready to ask questions, take initiative, and dive into new challenges with enthusiasm.
Why Intern with Us?
Being a KEENtern means you’re not just an intern—you’re a valued part of our KEEN community. Here’s what you can look forward to:
Meaningful Work: Tackle real-world projects that make an impact, gaining valuable hands-on experience at a globally recognized brand.
Collaborative Environment: Partner with talented teammates and work on a group project with other KEENterns.
Networking Opportunities: Build connections with industry experts and mentors who can help shape your career.
Perks & Benefits: Enjoy product discounts, a subsidized cafeteria, and an inspiring workspace.
Outdoor Adventures: Immerse yourself in Portland – a vibrant city nestled between the mountains and the coast – a hub for all things outdoors, such as hiking, biking, rafting, camping, and climbing.
Program Requirements:
To qualify for this internship, you must:
Be a Junior, Senior, or Graduate student working toward a degree in Marketing, Business, Communications, or a related field.
Be eligible to work in the U.S. without sponsorship.
Commit to a 10-week program from mid-June through mid-August.
Dedicate 40 hours per week during standard M-F work week.
This is an onsite role located at our beautiful headquarters office in Portland, OR.
Plan no more than four total days of vacation during the internship.
Demonstrate proficiency in Microsoft Office programs, including Outlook, Word, and PowerPoint.
Able to learn and adapt quickly to new software and tools.
Demonstrate strong verbal and written communication skills, strong attention to detail in preparation of presentations, reports, and materials.
Demonstrate strong organization skills with the ability to prioritize and manage multiple tasks.
Proven ability to work independently as well as collaborate with a team.
Able to perform the essential functions of the role, with or without reasonable accommodation, including using a computer for extended periods.
Travel: Occasional travel in and around the larger Portland area to support activations.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you’re ready to take your passions to the next level and be part of a world-class team, please apply.
Other Requirements
Please note this job description is not designed to contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without cause.
Fuerst Group, KEEN and Chrome are equal opportunity employers. We value an inclusive and diverse community. Qualified candidates of all backgrounds are encouraged to apply and will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, veteran status, or disability.