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

Sarasota County Government•Colonial Park, PA

1d•$15 - $20•Onsite

About The Position

Intern Sarasota County is proud to be #VaultRanked as one of the Top 150 Internships for 2026! Department: Parks Recreation and Natural Resources About Our Job This position performs semi-skilled work in support of natural resource management within the Beaches and Water Access (BWA) Division of the Parks, Recreation, and Natural Resources (PRNR) Department. The role is primarily field-based and focuses on managing land and waterways across parks, beaches, and coastal environments. Key responsibilities include identifying and controlling invasive vegetation and wildlife, protecting natural habitats, and maintaining safe and navigable waterways. The position also assists with park improvement projects, land management plans, and provides coordination and support for volunteers and public events. Additional duties include supporting daily park operations, facility maintenance, janitorial services, and general administrative tasks as needed. Job Description: Are you interested in getting hands-on experience in your chosen field? Do you want to make a difference in your community? Intern 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.

Requirements

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.

Nice To Haves

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.
Subject to Passing Substance Screening: This position is subject to passing a pre-employment substance screening. An applicant who fails to pass a required drug screening test shall be disqualified from employment for a period of five (5) years.

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.
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.