2026 Summer Intern - Mentorship Program Development

General Information

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 careers.

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.

Job Description

• Program Dates: The 2026 internship program will begin on May 18, 2026, and end on July 31, 2026.
• Internship Hours: Up to 27 hours/week (maximum), Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.; may vary by department.
• Pay Range: $16 per hour up to $20 per hour (graduate/ master’s student), based on the number of credit hours earned.

Short description of the project:

This internship project will support the development of a structured mentorship program focused on employee growth and engagement. The intern will research effective mentorship models and work with HR and department leaders to design key program components, including eligibility guidelines, matching processes, and timelines. Responsibilities include creating application materials, onboarding resources, communication templates, and evaluation tools. The intern will compile all documentation and provide recommendations for launch. The final result will be a practical, pilot ready mentorship framework that HR can implement and manage.

Department Responsibilities:

• Support recruitment, selection, hiring, and onboarding to attract and retain qualified employees.
• Administer employee benefits, leave programs, and wellness initiatives.
• Manage classification, compensation, and workforce planning processes.
• Provide employee and labor relations support, including policy guidance and conflict resolution.
• Deliver training, leadership development, and career growth programs.
• Maintain personnel records and ensure compliance with employment laws and County policies.

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.

Minimum Qualifications

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.

Veterans Preference

In accordance with Florida Statute 295.07, F.S., Chapter 55A-7, priority consideration in employment will be given to eligible veterans and spouses of disabled veterans. Applicants claiming preference must provide a DD Form 214 or other acceptable documentation with their application. We are committed to honoring the service and sacrifices of our veterans and their families.

EEO/ADA Statement

Manatee County Government is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. If you require any accommodations to participate in the recruitment process, please contact Human Resources at 941-748-4501 x 3865.

Drug-Free Workplace

Manatee County Government is a drug-free workplace in accordance with Federal and Florida Law.

Emergency Response/Recovery Activities

All employees may be required to work before, during, or after an emergency. During an emergency, employees may temporarily be assigned to work and perform duties outside the normal scope of their position, location, and work schedule to fit the needs of the County and its citizens.