Research Internship - Summer 2026 (Cleveland)

ORGANIZATION OVERVIEW

As unapologetic promoters of Cleveland, the Destination Cleveland team works every day to attract visitors, inspire both visitors and locals alike to explore, and connect people to experiences that illustrate Cleveland’s diversity, creativity, and contagious passion. We are in the business of equitably growing the region’s economy through travel and tourism while also cultivating a passion for Greater Cleveland.

SUMMARY OF POSITION
Destination Cleveland is seeking a self-motivated, passionate individual to gain valuable experience in applied research. This person should be prepared to work on a variety of projects and will finish the internship having gained broad experience in various aspects of travel and tourism research and applications in marketing, sales, strategic planning and destination management.

COMPENSATION & EXPECTATIONS

• Mandatory Start Date & Orientation: May 13, 2026
• $1000 Monthly Stipend (paid twice monthly over the course of the 16 week internship)
• Flexible Scheduling
• $50/Month Stipend
• Internship Duration: Summer 2026 (May 13 - Aug. 28)

BENEFITS

• Build your non-profit experience portfolio.
• One-on-one mentoring.
• Build customer service skills.
• Exposure to a variety of professions within the travel, tourism, and hospitality industry.
• Opportunities to attend professional networking events occurring in the region.
• Work at a nationally recognized destination marketing & management organization.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Data Collection: Conduct research to gather data on various aspects of the hospitality and tourism industry, such as market trends, customer preferences and emerging destinations.
2. Data Analysis: Assist in analyzing collected data to identify patterns and trends that can inform decision-making and progress-tracking.
3. Qualitative Research: Assist in the design and administration of surveys and other qualitative research tools to gain insights into audience behavior, perceptions and expectations of Cleveland as a place to visit, live and work.
4. Industry Trends: Maintain up-to-date knowledge on travel and tourism trends by reviewing industry reports and relevant publications.
5. Reporting: Summarize research findings, create visualizations and contribute to the preparation of reports and presentations.
6. Project Support: Support research department with ongoing research initiatives, including fieldwork, data collection, data cleaning and data management.
7. Administrative Tasks: Assist with administrative tasks, such as scheduling meetings, preparing materials for presentations and handling correspondence related to research projects.

QUALIFICATIONS
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Requirements

• Educational Background: Currently pursuing a degree in a relevant field, such as hospitality management, tourism, business, economics, marketing, statistics, sociology or a related discipline.
• Research Skills: Basic knowledge of qualitative and quantitative research methodologies, data collection techniques and statistical analysis.
• Analytical Skills: Ability to analyze and interpret data and present findings in a clear and organized manner.
• Communication: Strong written and verbal communication skills to effectively report research findings and collaborate with team members. Ability to effectively communicate technical matters to non-technical audiences.
• Attention to Detail: Strong attention to detail to ensure data accuracy and consistency.
• Time Management: Ability to manage multiple tasks, meet deadlines and work efficiently.
• Curiosity and Enthusiasm: A passion for the hospitality and tourism industry and a desire to learn and contribute to research efforts.
• Team Player: Ability to work well in a team and collaborate with colleagues across the organization on research projects.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, statistical analysis tools and software and PowerBI (preferred)

PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The physical demands and work environment described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Frequent communication and ability to present to external stakeholders and members of the community.
• Ability to view computer monitors for extended periods of time.
• Standing for community functions, presentations, etc.
• Ability to lift up to 25 pounds.

WORK ENVIRONMENT
On-site position. Office environment; moderate noise. Offsite visits/travel required.

TO APPLY

For more information and to apply for the position, please visit our website:?

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