Sarasota County Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources (PRNR) Internship Program is designed to provide an intern with the opportunity to apply information and skills obtained in the classroom to real-life working situations. The intern will be introduced to each of the divisions and overall areas of responsibility within the department.

The internship also offers the opportunity to gain additional experience in land management, operations and maintenance, special event and program coordination, and maintaining standards associated with accreditation.  Additionally, other learning experiences can be developed in relation to intern’s interest and area of study within the field of Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources or a related field.  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:

• Promote Sarasota County Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources to current and potential customers.
• Be aware of the breadth of functions and responsibilities within PRNR.
• Understand the Commission for Accreditation of Parks and Recreation Agencies (CAPRA) standards.
• Understand the importance of coordinating resources, programs, and services.
• Understand the role of Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources within local government. 

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:

• Visit, observe and participate in different areas of PRNR’s facilities, programs and operations.
• Work with multiple divisions including Sports Development and Athletics, Recreation and Neighborhood Parks, Beaches and Water Access, Maintenance Services, Natural Areas and Trails, Business Operations and Park Planning and Development, to learn about and assist in daily tasks. Assignments associated with each division will be geared toward intern’s interests.
• CAPRA standards review and updates.
• Utilize skills and education to enhance customer experiences in Sarasota County.
• Continue to facilitate a positive relationship with intern’s college/university.
• Identify and provide formal and informal updates on trends in parks, recreation and natural resources.
• Assist in managing files and documents.
• Be able to assist in resource upkeep and maintenance.
• Become familiar with County and PRNR’s goals, objectives, values, mission and vision.
• Final internship experience report to be presented to PRNR Management Team prior to completion of internship. 

Recreation Software

• Gain an understanding of how software supports the business operations of the department.
• Be able to utilize RecTrac software to audit records and write reports.
• Analyze data to develop market trends and user information.

Operational Support / General Duties:

• Assist in managing files and documents.
• Assist in resource upkeep and maintenance.

Non-Essential Functions:

• Other duties and/or special projects as assigned.  

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.)  
• Include cover letter, resume and transcript (documenting 2.8 GPA or higher) with application for internship.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Candidates currently working toward a bachelor’s degree in parks, recreation, leisure services, natural resources or closely related field.
• Some college with student status as a Junior or Senior. 

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

• Must possess a valid driver’s license
• Must be organized and able to coordinate multiple activities taking place at multiple locations.
• Must have the ability to assess and prioritize multiple tasks and solve problems as they arise.
• Knowledge, experience and proficiency in Microsoft Office and computer applications.
• Ability to work independently and perform tasks without constant direct supervision.
• Ability to present written and verbal ideas and recommendations in a concise manner.
• Ability to understand and carry out verbal and/or written instructions efficiently and effectively and to read and understand printed material.
• Ability to operate assigned equipment (with associated training, where applicable).
• Ability to effectively interact and communicate well with others.
• Ability to interpret and explain policies and procedures.
• Ability to follow safety guidelines and exercise judgment in all aspects of responsibility.
• Ability to assist with resolving conflict safely, calmly and effectively.

Drug Free Work Environment             EOE/AA/ADA