2026 Summer Internship at WHQR

WHQR is excited to announce its 2026 Summer Internship opportunity within the newsroom. This position is ideal for individuals eager to gain hands-on experience in journalism. The summer intern will assist in various areas including reporting, audio production, web content creation, and social media management. Interns will also receive valuable training and have the chance to produce their own reporting segments.

This part-time internship will span approximately 8 weeks, commencing in June and concluding in August, with a flexible start date. Although some remote work options may be available, the intern will be required to work from our downtown Wilmington station, ensuring a collaborative newsroom environment.

Compensation for Summer Interns

The summer internship offers competitive compensation at a rate of $15 per hour for a 25-hour work week. This amounts to a total summer compensation of $3,000. The work schedule is somewhat flexible, accommodating news events, and may involve night or weekend shifts. Additionally, interns may be reimbursed for parking or travel expenses as necessary, although this role does not include health care benefits.

Application Process for Interns

Interested applicants can submit their applications until February 18. Candidates selected for consideration will be notified by mid-March, providing ample time for planning. Interested individuals should prepare a detailed letter of interest along with their resume or CV for submission.

Freelance Journalists Wanted at WHQR

WHQR is actively seeking freelance journalists who are passionate about uncovering in-depth stories in the Cape Fear region. We encourage work that explores complex issues and engages the community in meaningful dialogue. Freelancers will have the opportunity to create deep dives, serial storytelling, limited-run podcasts, and other innovative formats suited for public media.

Support for Freelance Journalism

This initiative is backed by a grant from the Fourth Estate Fund, which is committed to fostering journalism’s role in protecting democracy and stimulating important conversations. We are open to accepting pitches and engaging in discussions about potential projects on a rolling basis throughout the entirety of 2026.

Compensation for Freelance Work

WHQR prioritizes a compensation model that recognizes the reporting process, not just the final products. This payment structure is based on the model established by AIR in 2022 and is adjusted based on local market conditions and inflation. Compensation will be determined based on the scope of work agreed upon prior to project initiation. As with the internship role, no health care benefits are available for freelance positions.

How to Apply for Freelance Positions

Those interested in freelance opportunities should send a letter of interest, resume or CV, along with links to relevant online or audio work to WHQR News Director Ben Schachtman at bschachtman@whqr.org. Join us in telling compelling stories that matter to our community.

Friends of Public Radio, Inc is an equal opportunity employer and adheres to EEOC rules and regulations. We are dedicated to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion and do not discriminate based on race, age, disability, or other non-merit factors.

Exciting Opportunities for Aspiring Journalists at WHQR

2026 Summer Internship Program

WHQR is offering a unique summer internship opportunity for aspiring journalists in the vibrant Cape Fear region. Our program invites interns to become an integral part of our newsroom, assisting with various aspects such as reporting, audio production, web content, and social media management. This is a fantastic chance to gain hands-on experience in a professional newsroom environment.

Internship Details

The summer internship spans approximately eight weeks, beginning in June and concluding in August, with a flexible start date. While interns may work remotely on occasion, office presence at our downtown Wilmington station is necessary. This immersive experience will provide interns with valuable training and the opportunity to produce their own reporting, equipping them with essential skills for their future careers.

Compensation and Work Schedule

Interns will earn $15 per hour based on a 25-hour work week, totaling $3,000 for the summer. The work schedule is designed to be flexible, accommodating news events and may require evening or weekend hours. Additional benefits may include compensation for parking or travel expenses; however, please note that health care benefits are not included.

Application Process

The application window remains open until February 18. Potential candidates can expect to receive updates regarding their application status by mid-March. This is a prime opportunity for those looking to make their mark in journalism while benefiting from personalized training and mentorship.

Freelance Journalist Opportunities

WHQR is also seeking freelance journalists with a passion for exploring in-depth stories within the Cape Fear region. We are dedicated to covering complex issues and support projects that engage audiences through various storytelling formats, such as serial narratives and limited-run podcasts.

Grant Support for Journalism

This exciting freelance initiative is backed by a grant from the Fourth Estate Fund, which aims to fortify journalism’s critical role in democracy and encourage transformative conversations. We welcome pitches and discussions on potential projects throughout 2026, fostering collaboration with talented journalists.

Freelance Compensation Structure

Our compensation model focuses on valuing the reporting process, aligned with pay standards established by AIR in 2022, adjusted for local economic factors. Writers will agree upon compensation based on the project’s scope before reporting begins, with possible reimbursements for related expenses. Note that health care benefits are not provided for freelance roles.

Commitment to Inclusivity

Friends of Public Radio, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer, dedicated to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion within our team. We uphold EEOC regulations and ensure our hiring practices do not discriminate based on race, age, disability, or any non-merit characteristics.