Tampa Parks and Recreation Department has designed and implemented an
internship program that provides students with a well-rounded experience which
introduces them to all aspects of a diverse and comprehensive parks and
recreation program. It is a "hands on" experience that reflects what park and
recreation professionals do on the job to ensure the necessary and enhanced
services to the community.
Program Goals
- To apply academic and practical experience to a hands-on, real life
experience.
- To problem solve in a work environment.
- To exchange ideas and network with professionals in the field.
- To gain pride and appreciation in the field.
- To gain competent professional skills.
Parks and Recreation Department Summer Internship
For students studying to be a Parks and Recreation
professional. The Parks and Recreation Intern, in cooperation with the assigned
supervisor, will design and complete a Practical Application Project of
significant and lasting value to the agency. The primary purpose of this
project is for the intern to make a professional contribution to the agency.
The short-term project can be of an administrative, research, programming,
planning, or operational focus.
Intern will have the opportunity to:
-
Meet and work with a wide variety of professional Parks
and Recreation Staff.
-
Gain first-hand experience in a wide variety of Parks
and Recreation functions from Grounds Maintenance to Art Studio operations.
-
Complete a comprehensive Intern Practical Application
Project
Internship will consist of the following:
- Introduction to the basic functions/work responsibilities of City of
Tampa Departments
- Introduction to the City of Tampa Parks and Recreation Department
- Comprehensive interviews with employees at all levels of organizational
structure
- Observe and participate in day-to-day activities, programs, meetings and
special events coordinated within each of the department’s divisions
including: Grounds Maintenance, Centers and Playgrounds, Planning and
Design, Administration, Public Relations, Natural Resources and Forestry,
Special Programs, Aquatics and Wellness, Athletics, and Special Events
Office of Special Events Internship
For students studying to be an event promoter or coordinator. The Office of Special Events is responsible for coordination of special
events within the City of Tampa. The City of Tampa Office of Special Events
oversees and permits over 400 events a year. These events include: the
Gasparilla Parade and Pirate Invasion, Gasparilla Distance Classic and Marathon
and Guavaween. The Office of Special Events is responsible for all street
closures, block parties, parades and other events involving city right-of-way;
obtaining required State Road, CSX Railroad and Coast Guard permits and
coordinating use of park facilities for events.
Intern will have the opportunity to:
-
Meet and work with a wide variety of professional event
promoters as well as city staff (including police, fire, transportation,
parks and recreation, solid waste, and others)
-
Gain first-hand experience in Special Event production
from inception through post-event wrap up meetings
-
Work with event professionals with over twenty years of
experience
Internship will consist of the following:
-
Attend planning and coordination meetings with event
promoters and various city staff to determine scope of event and how each
department will meet the needs of the event.
-
Assist in maintenance and updates to the city Special
Event web site and calendar
-
Be in attendance at City Council meetings to provide
assistance for input to City Council on the impact of the event and staff
recommendations
-
Assist in obtaining outside agency’s permits/approval
-
Assist in performing on-site visits to Special Events
to ensure proper placement and set-up of activities to be held.
-
Assist in writing and distribution of Press Releases
and information to the public on upcoming events.
-
Assist in preparing electronic distribution of permit
application to various departments within the city and filing of the permit
for the City Council meetings
-
Assist in the City Co-Sponsor Committee review process
and the City’s Special event monthly meetings with the various venues
(public and private) to coordinator events to ensure there will be no
conflicts. Coordination of cost estimates for event seeking co-sponsorship.
Marketing and Communications Internship
For students studying to be a public relations professional. The individual must demonstrate the ability to undertake
basic public relations writing assignments, and posses an understanding of basic
media relations skills, an ability to interact professionally with staff, and
good judgment. A working knowledge of computers, as well as word processing and
database management software is necessary. The Marketing and Communications
Supervisor will mentor the public relations intern.
Intern will have the opportunity to:
- Gain first-hand experience in the field of public relations and event
planning
- Observe and participate in day-to-day activities
- Research, learn, create, and activate plans
Internship will consist of the following::
- Write press
releases and media alerts
- Research new
media opportunities
- Track media coverage and compile report
- Update online event calendars
- Maintain press clipping files and photo library
- General administrative
support;
- Assist with marketing and community outreach projects.
As an integral member of the
staff, the Intern will gain valuable experience and knowledge of the public
relations and arts marketing fields, while learning about the operations of a
nonprofit organization.
Job Qualifications: Candidates should be detail-oriented, organized,
self-motivated, and possess strong writing and interpersonal skills. Interns
must be proficient in Microsoft Word and Excel, and would be expected to work at
least 16 hours per week. Please submit a cover letter and resume for
consideration.
How to apply:
Send cover letter and resume to: City of Tampa Parks and
Recreation Department
Internship program
3402 W. Columbus Drive
Tampa, FL 33607
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