Half Marathon Operations Intern

HALF MARATHON OPERATIONS & EVENTS INTERN 

Organization: United Way of Central Massachusetts 

Location: Worcester, MA (Hybrid) 

Commitment: 10–18 hours per week 

Duration: Summer 2026 through Spring 2027 

Compensation: $18.50/hour 

POSITION SUMMARY 

The Half Marathon & Events Intern will play a key role in the planning, coordination, and race-day execution of the inaugural Mass Half Marathon benefiting United Way of Central Massachusetts. This is a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in large-scale event management, nonprofit fundraising, community engagement, and partnership development while helping launch a signature community event. 

The intern will work closely with the race director, planning committee, and UWCM staff leadership to support event logistics, volunteer coordination, sponsorship fulfillment, participant engagement, and marketing efforts leading up to and after race day. 

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES 

Event Planning & Project Coordination 

• Support overall planning and execution of the Mass Half Marathon 
• Assist with project management, meeting coordination, timelines, and task tracking 
• Assist in maintaining planning documents and organizational systems 
• Conduct research and support decision-making related to race operations and logistics 

Course & Safety Operations 

• Assist with course planning and mapping efforts 
• Support coordination with public safety officials, municipal departments, and event partners 
• Help develop race-day operational plans, emergency procedures, and participant safety communications 
• Assist with planning aid stations, signage, volunteer deployment, and participant flow 

Marketing & Communications 

• Assist with race marketing initiatives and promotional campaigns 
• Support social media content creation and scheduling 
• Draft participant communications, newsletters, and event updates 
• Help maintain website content and informational materials 
• Engage with running clubs, community organizations, and local stakeholders to promote participation 

Race-Day Operations 

• Assist with volunteer coordination and race-day staffing plans 
• Support event setup, logistics, and troubleshooting 
• Help manage start/finish area operations and participant experience 
• Assist with race-week preparations, packet pickup, and post-event activities 

What You Bring 

• Interest in event management, sports management, nonprofit leadership, communications, marketing, public administration, or related fields 
• Strong organizational and project management skills 
• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities 
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work independently 
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and Google Workspace 
• Willingness to work occasional evenings, weekends, and race-day activities 
• Interest in running, endurance events, or community events is a plus 

What You'll Gain 

• Direct experience helping launch a major community half marathon 
• Exposure to race operations, event logistics, public safety planning, and stakeholder coordination 
• Experience in marketing, communications, and participant engagement 
• Opportunities to work with municipal leaders, public safety agencies, sponsors, and community organizations 
• Professional mentorship and networking opportunities within the nonprofit and event management sectors 

Ideal Candidate 

The ideal candidate is a proactive, organized, and creative problem-solver who enjoys both big-picture planning and detailed execution. They are excited about community events, comfortable working with diverse stakeholders, and eager to gain experience managing the many moving pieces that contribute to a successful race.