What are the responsibilities and job description for the 2025 Summer Intern – Community Planning Specialist position at Manatee County Government?
Work Location: Administration Building - 11112 Manatee Avenue West, 4th Floor, Bradenton, Florida, 34205
Work Hours: Monday - Friday, 8 AM - 5 PM (27 hours per week, may vary)
About Our Job
Are you interested in getting hands-on experience in your chosen field? Do you want to make a difference in your community?
Manatee County is dedicated in providing students with an unsurpassed learning experience and insight into the dynamic world of public sector employment.
What you can expect:
- Develop new skills you can apply in the workplace.
- Gain skills that will enhance your resume and increase your career options.
- Explore working in public service!
- Observe and participate in tasks performed daily by skilled professionals.
- Experience workplace culture, office dynamics, and business etiquette.
Your internship will include impactful hands-on work within a county department, networking, professional development, and building lasting connections with other interns, mentors, and Manatee County team members.
- Program Dates: The 2024 internship program will begin on May 19th, 2025, and end on August 8th, 2025.
- Internship Hours: Up to 27 hours/week (maximum), Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.; may vary by department.
- Pay Range: $14 per hour up to $20 per hour (graduate/ master’s student), based on the number of credit hours earned.
Zoning Analysis for Housing Crises and Walkable Communities
- Research and report on how zoning laws can be adapted to allow for temporary housing (e.g., tiny homes, mobile homes) in the wake of natural disasters or housing crises.
- Research and report on how zoning can encourage mixed-use developments (residential, commercial, and recreational spaces) to create more walkable communities.
Department Responsibilities:
- Land Use Planning and Zoning: Manage and implement the county's Comprehensive Plan and Land Development Code, ensuring alignment with zoning regulations and long-term development goals.
- Development Review: Evaluate and process site plans, rezoning requests, and development proposals to ensure compliance with the Manatee County Land Development Code and Comprehensive Plan.
- Public Engagement: Facilitate community meetings, workshops, and hearings to gather public input on planning and development initiatives.
- Environmental and Urban Design: Promote sustainable development practices by integrating environmental considerations and urban design standards into planning decisions.
- Data Collection and Analysis: Conduct research and maintain databases on demographics, land use, and infrastructure to support informed decision-making.
- Interdepartmental Coordination: Collaborate with other county departments and government agencies to address infrastructure, transportation, and public service needs in planning efforts.
Internship Program Responsibilities:
- A presentation to the County Administrator and other County Leadership staff is required at the close of the internship program.
- Participate in all organized intern events and trainings.
Your Internship Includes:?
- Competitive wages starting at $14.00 hr.
- Hands-on work experience
- Professional headshot
- 1-1 mentoring with county staff
- Professional Development Events:
- Get to know your County & Facility Tour
- Beach Patrol Demo & Beach Clean Up
- Communication Training
- Natural Resources – Kayak Tour
- Build your resume with real world career experience
- Senior Leadership Meeting
- Speaking for Success
About You
Minimum Qualifications:
- High school diploma, or equivalent (if applicable)
- Eligible to work in the United States – we love local, national, and international students!
- Currently seeking a diploma or degree through an accredited secondary or post-secondary educational program, or within 12 months after graduation.
Salary : $14 - $20