Parks & Recreation Interpretive Program Specialist Intern - Beach and Water Access - R15707

Department: Parks, Recreation & Natural Resources About Our Job Help with various events and projects, including fishing and nature camps, sea grass surveys, special events, and a wide range of beach related activities, including sea turtle surveys. Job Description Are you interested in getting hands‑on experience in your chosen field? Do you want to make a difference in your community? Sarasota County is dedicated to providing students with an unsurpassed learning experience and insight into the dynamic world of public sector employment. Develop new skills you can apply in the workplace. Gain skills that will enhance your resume and increase your career options while exploring public service! Observe and participate in tasks and responsibilities performed daily by skilled professionals. Experience workplace culture, office dynamics, and business etiquette. Your internship will include impactful hands‑on work within a department, networking, professional development, and building long lasting connections with other interns, mentors and Sarasota County team members. Department Responsibilities Plan, develop, implement and promote a range of recreational, cultural/historical, and nature‑based recreational programs and services at beaches, water accesses and parks. Assist with division‑wide special events and programs. Assist with the scheduling and coordination of reservations, contracts and/or registrations with groups, individuals, agencies, and others, utilizing reservation software. Instruct park visitors and staff on facility and park usage requirements and ensure compliance with reservation agreements. Coordinate and oversee events scheduled within the parks. Provide quality customer service. Serve as a steward in preserving and protecting the historic, archaeological, and environmental resources consistent with Federal, State, local laws, and rules. Draft permit conditions and stipulations for special events and other permitted activities. Assist with the day‑to‑day operations of the parks, including but not limited to: natural resource management, operations, maintenance, janitorial services, events coordination and administrative duties and functions. Create and distribute promotional information for cultural, educational, and recreational programs and events. Provide updates for the website and other forms of communication as necessary. Perform public relations activities. Collaborate with your department colleagues to make and influence real changes. Internship Program Responsibilities A presentation to the County Administrator and other County Leadership staff is required at the close of the internship program. Participate in all organized intern events and trainings. Internship Includes Competitive wage Hands‑on work experience Professional headshot 1‑1 mentoring with county staff Professional Development Events Civics 101 & Facility Tour Own Your Career Business Etiquette & Professional Networking Philanthropy & Your Career Board of County Commission Public Hearing Session Speaking for Success About You Minimum Qualifications At least 18 years old, or age 16 with parental consent. High school diploma, or equivalent (if applicable). Eligible to work in the United States – we love local, national, and international students! Currently seeking a diploma or degree through an accredited secondary or post‑secondary educational program, or within 12 months after graduation. Preferred Qualifications Pursuing a bachelor’s degree in recreation, leisure services, education, public administration, business administration, or closely related field. Program Dates The 2023 internship program will begin on May 22, 2023 and end on August 11, 2023. Internship Hours 40 hours/week, Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.; some departments vary. Pay Range $13 per hour (high school student) up to $20 per hour (Grad/Masters student), based on your credit hours earned. #J-18808-Ljbffr Sarasota County Government