This is a unique opportunity for an inquisitive, self-motivated, and creative individual to make a positive impact on Sarasota County. Sarasota County Government is seeking an intern in the UF/IFAS Extension and Sustainability Department. The position will develop natural resources and sustainability marketing and communication materials and assist with education and outreach efforts.

Intern Responsibilities:

• A presentation to the County Administrator and other County Leadership staff is required at the close of the internship program.
• Participate in organized intern events.

 Duties:

• Research, write, and develop blogs, social media content, webinars, and videos for the Sustainability and Natural Resources Programs at UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County.
• Assist Sarasota County UF/IFAS staff in Natural Resource educational program research, development and delivery, such as an environmental education summer day camp, Project WILD, and other adult and youth programming.
• Assist Sarasota County UF/IFAS staff in the promotion, marketing, education and distribution of the “Sustainable Events Guide.” Respectfully interacting with local business owners, Sarasota County vendors and employees in communicating “Sustainable Events” principles and best practices.
• Support sustainability, natural resources, and other UF/IFAS staff on additional projects, such as Energy Coach Training, Sustainable Communities Workshop or other outreach events.
• Administrative duties to support Sustainability and Natural Resource programming such as program data entry and analysis, literature reviews, design, marketing and promotion of programs.

Non-Essential Functions: (Secondary Functions - Failure to perform the task would not significantly impact the business; or, personnel in other jobs could perform the functions without disruption).

• Other duties and/or special projects as assigned.  
• These are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work performed. The omission of specific duties does not exclude them from the position.

Minimum Qualifications:

• High School Diploma or equivalent required.
• Must be currently enrolled in a college/university, seeking a graduate (post-baccalaureate) degree or senior level graduate studies. (Proof of current enrollment required at time of application.)  May consider recent graduate of master's program.
• Level 2 (DCF Clearinghouse) background check screening will be required for working with youth including online Youth Protection Training with a minimum score of 90%.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Candidates currently working towards a bachelor’s degree in Environmental Studies, Sustainability, Marketing, Communications or closely related fields. Prefer both environmental and communication studies.

Specific knowledge, skills, abilities and/or machines, equipment, special tools as required for the job

• Background in sustainability and natural resources, environmental education, marketing, communications, writing, video production, and project management.
• Previous science or environmental education teaching experience a plus.
• Adept with Microsoft programs including Word, Power Point and Excel.
• Ability to interact with community members from a variety of backgrounds.
• Must have strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Design skills preferred.
• Ability to transport him/herself to locations in Sarasota County.

Drug Free Work Environment             EOE/AA/ADA