2026 Summer Intern - Community Health Services

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 examine gaps in indigent healthcare services in Manatee County, expanding on prior work related to access to care. The intern will plan and lead community listening sessions to gather input from residents, providers, and stakeholders about unmet needs and barriers to services. Responsibilities include developing the assessment approach, coordinating outreach, facilitating sessions, and organizing and analyzing feedback. The findings will be compiled into a report with practical recommendations to improve healthcare access and service delivery. Strong communication, qualitative research, and organizational skills are essential. A master’s level student in public health or a related field is preferred.

Department Responsibilities:

• Provide emergency medical services and 911 emergency communications.
• Lead emergency management planning, response, recovery, and disaster preparedness efforts.
• Deliver beach and aquatic safety services, including lifeguard response and water rescue.
• Administer community health and preventive care programs.
• Manage indigent healthcare and health related safety net services for eligible residents.

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). Seeking a graduate level student currently enrolled or recently graduated in a master’s degree program in related field.
• 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.