2026 Summer Intern - Recreational Grants Support

General Information

Work Location: G.T. Bray Recreation Center: 5502 33rd Ave. Dr. W, Bradenton, Fl 34212

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:

Sports & Leisure is seeking an Intern to support administration and compliance for the Summer Blast Camp Scholarship Program, which helps remove financial barriers for families in our community. This role will assist in managing grant requirements by tracking and documenting the 50 children approved for scholarships, maintaining detailed records, and creating compliance folders to ensure all stipulations, milestones, and required components, including water safety and reading elements, are met. The Intern will also research additional recreation grant opportunities for youth sports, camps, and fitness programs, benchmark funding utilized by other counties, and help identify and pursue grant opportunities that may expand program access and sustainability.

Department Responsibilities:

• Operate and maintain County parks, recreation centers, athletic fields, pools, and related facilities.
• Provide youth and adult recreation programs, leagues, camps, aquatics, and wellness activities.
• Plan and host community events, tournaments, and engagement initiatives.
• Manage facility reservations, memberships, and customer service operations.
• Support equitable access to programs through scholarships and community partnerships.

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.