Sarasota County Government · 2 weeks ago
Parks & Recreation Environmental Specialist Intern - On-Site Summer 2026 Internship
Sarasota County Government is dedicated to providing students with an unsurpassed learning experience through their internship program. The Parks & Recreation Environmental Specialist Intern will support natural resource management, assist with park operations, and participate in various environmental stewardship projects.
ConsultingGovernmentPublic RelationsPublic Safety
Responsibilities
Assist with the oversight and management of parks, trails, facilities, and amenities to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all park patrons
Support the planning and implementation of land, marine, waterway, and navigation improvement projects
Perform invasive and nuisance plant and animal management activities, including vegetation reduction, planting and the application of herbicides, to protect and restore native habitats
Lead and assist with Integrated Pest Management (IPM) projects, ensuring the completion and submission of required IPM documentation and data
Promote environmental stewardship by ensuring the protection of archaeological, cultural, and natural resources
Implement and uphold County environmental standards for the protection of native species and habitats
Manage environmental databases through the use of Smartsheet and other data collection tools, incorporating GPS technology, and collaborating with the GIS Department to maintain and update spatial data and maps
Assist with the day-to-day operations of the park, including but not limited to natural resource management, facility operations, maintenance, janitorial services, event coordination, and administrative functions
Support volunteer programs by assisting with the planning, supervision, and implementation of projects related to natural resource management
Complete a term internship project/assignment as defined by Parks and Recreations Supervisor
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
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
This position is subject to passing a pre-employment substance screening
Preferred
Working toward a Bachelor's Degree in Biology, Natural Resource Management, Recreation, Leisure Services, Education, Public Administration, Business Administration, or closely related field
Working towards a career in natural resources management
Experience with mechanical/land management tools and equipment and experience with GIS, GPS
Possession or ability to acquire boater's license
Use of private vehicle may be required
Knowledge of coastal and south Florida ecosystems
Company
Sarasota County Government
Sarasota County Government is a county organization that dedicated to providing customer-focused services that add value to the community.
H1B Sponsorship
Sarasota County Government has a track record of offering H1B sponsorships. Please note that this does not
guarantee sponsorship for this specific role. Below presents additional info for your
reference. (Data Powered by US Department of Labor)
Distribution of Different Job Fields Receiving Sponsorship
Represents job field similar to this job
Trends of Total Sponsorships
2025 (2)
2024 (1)
2023 (1)
2022 (1)
Funding
Current Stage
Late StageLeadership Team
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