This is a unique opportunity for a self-motivated and creative individual to make a positive impact on Sarasota County. Sarasota County Government is seeking an intern in the Governmental Relations department.

This internship offers the opportunity to gain additional experience in economic development, government affairs and public policy.  Additionally, other learning experiences can be developed in relation to intern’s interest and area of study within the fields of financial management and communications/marketing.  The program will provide the intern with a constructive review and evaluation of their skills and competencies, providing growth opportunities and direction to further professional and educational development.

By the end of the internship, the intern will learn how to:

• Conduct economic comparative analyses
• Implement policy into programmatic functions and procedures
• Review performance and monitor compliance of financial contracts
• Design and execute business communications outreach campaign
• Track Federal and State Legislative issues

Intern Responsibilities:

• A presentation to the County Administrator and other County Leadership staff is required at the close of the internship program.
• Participation in organized intern events.

Job Duties:

• Attend business and civic engagements with Governmental Relations staff
• Review reports and related deliverables to ensure economic development contract compliance
• Work closely with the Office of Financial Management on fiscal review of contract performance
• Research markets, industries, commerce associations and events for strategic initiatives
• Develop and create relevant content to educate and engage businesses through print and digital media
• Research, process and compile data for current and proposed legislative and economic development policies
• Conduct studies and analysis related to policies, programming and process improvements
• A presentation to the County Administrator and other County Leadership staff is required at the close of the internship program. 
• Ideal competencies for this position include but are not limited to data analytics, project management. research, marketing communications, fiscal impact analysis, strategic planning; ability to communicate clearly and effectively, orally and in writing; flexibility and adaptability in a fast-paced atmosphere; along with creative problem-solving skills.

Operational Support / General Duties

• Observe and participate in daily functions of department
• Respond to citizen requests with direction from supervisor
• Record keeping and other administrative functions, as needed

Non-Essential Functions: 

• Other duties and/or special projects as assigned. 
• These are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work performed. The omission of specific duties does not exclude them from the position.

Minimum Qualifications:

• High School Diploma or equivalent required.
• Must be currently enrolled in a college/university, seeking a graduate (post-baccalaureate) degree or senior level graduate studies. (Proof of current enrollment required at time of application.)  May consider recent graduate of master's program.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Candidates currently working toward a bachelor’s degree in Economic Development, Economic Development Planning, Public Administration, Urban or Regional Planning, Business, Finance, or closely related field.
• Intermediary experience with Smartsheet

Specific knowledge, skills, abilities and/or machines, equipment, special tools as required for the job:

• Proficient with Microsoft programs including Word, PowerPoint and Excel. 
• Sufficient personal initiative, confidence and responsibility to own a project and its success.
• Temperament to learn--changing behavior whenever something could be done better.
• Ability to read and follow protocols of project management.
• Effective communication skills—verbal, written, and interpersonal.
• Ability to engage and gain value from those who can help during the project and in using its findings.
• Ability to transport themself to locations in Sarasota County.

Drug Free Work Environment             EOE/AA/ADA