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Sarasota County Government · 2 weeks ago

Parks & Recreation Specialist Intern - On-Site Summer 2026 Internship

Twin Lakes Park

Internship

Onsite

Intern

$15/hr - $20/hr

Start in 2026 Spring

Sarasota County Government is offering a professional internship in their Parks Recreation and Natural Resources department. The role supports the implementation of parks and recreation programs and provides hands-on experience while assisting with various responsibilities including event coordination and customer service.

ConsultingGovernmentPublic RelationsPublic Safety

Responsibilities

Assist with the planning, development, implementation and promotion for a range of recreational, cultural/historical, and nature-based recreational programs and services at beaches, water accesses and parks. Support division-wide special events and programs

Assist with the scheduling and coordination of reservations, contracts and registrations with groups, individuals, agencies, and other organizations using reservation software. Provide guidance to park visitors and staff on facility and park usage requirements, ensuring compliance with reservation agreements

Assist with the coordination and oversight of events scheduled within the parks. Deliver quality customer service and act as a steward of historic, archeological, and environmental resources in accordance with federal, state, and local regulations. Draft permit conditions and stipulations for special events and other permitted activities

Support day-to-day park operations, including but not limited to natural resource management, operations, maintenance, janitorial services, events coordination and administrative functions

Assist with the creation and distribution of promotional material for cultural, educational, and recreational programs and events. Provide updates for websites and other communication channels as necessary. Participate in public relations activities to promote programs and services

Complete a term internship project/assignment as defined by Parks and Recreations Supervisor. Work toward completion throughout the term of this position and deliver final presentation of findings to Beaches and Water Access staff at the conclusion of the program

Collaborate with your department colleagues to make and influence real changes

A presentation to the County Administrator and other County Leadership staff is required at the close of the internship program on Friday, August 7, 2026

Participate in all organized intern events and trainings

Qualification

Recreational programmingEvent coordinationCustomer servicePublic relationsTeam collaboration

Required

Ages 16-17 with parental consent, or 18 and above

Eligible to work in the United States – we love local, national, and international students!

Active, enrolled student

Successful passing Level II fingerprinting

Preferred

Working towards a bachelor's degree from accredited college or university in recreation, leisure services, education, public administration, environmental studies, or closely related field