Parks & Recreation Intern

Department: 

Parks & Recreation

Supervisor: 

Recreation Division Manager

FLSA Status: 

Non-Exempt

Union Status: 

Non-Union

Grade: 

Intern/Temporary

Revision Date:

January 2026

Prepared By:

Employee Resources

Organizational Mission and Core Values:

We believe Fridley will be a safe, vibrant, friendly and stable home for families and businesses to be achieved by focusing on the core values of being responsive, driven and friendly. 

Position Objective:

Join the Parks & Recreation Department to provide the Fridley community with a wide variety summer programming at our Parks, including the newly renovated Commons Park! This position is built to provide a well-rounded experience and exposure to all aspects of recreation including: youth day camps, adult programming, special event coordination, environmental education, community outreach, communication/marketing, facility coordination, customer service and training/coaching seasonal staff. 

We support the goals of our interns by developing projects and experiences to reach their educational aspirations and requirements.  

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

1. Deliver youth programs including summer day camps, sports, community outreach, field trips, and special events at a variety of Fridley Parks and Springbrook Nature Center.
2. Develop lesson plans, curriculum, and special event plans for youth programs.
3. Assist with Parks & Recreation program planning, marketing, scheduling, supervision, and customer/program evaluations. 
4. Assist with training and work direction for seasonal staff.
5. Assist with promotion of department programs and activities.
6. Assist in administrative tasks (email, mailings, phone, etc.) including seasonal staff time entry and scheduling.
7. Interact and provide excellent customer service to the public, participants, and staff. 
8. Coordinates facility use by opening and securing buildings, set up/take down of equipment, and monitoring patrons.
9. Assist the Parks & Recreation Department with various activities, as needed.

Minimum Qualifications:

1. Currently enrolled in or recent graduate of a degree program in Parks & Recreation, Education, or related field from an accredited college or university.
2. Ability to work the entire summer season (May 26 – August 19) with daytime and evening hours, five days per week (four weekdays and one weekend day). Preferred start date between May 26 and June 1, 2026. 
3. Valid driver’s license and good driving record.
4. Must be at least 18 years of age. 
5. Must satisfactorily complete a criminal background and reference check process.

Desired Qualifications:

1. Experience working with children/youth.
2. Experience with outdoor recreation programs (ex. biking, fishing, archery, canoeing, etc.).
3. Experience with sports (ex. soccer, baseball, basketball, track & field, etc.)
4. Completion of at least two years of study in a related post-secondary program or six months of relevant work experience.
5. Computer experience – Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook, and/or program registration software.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

1. Ability to interact with the public in a positive manner.
2. Ability to work independently and with people of all ages and abilities.
3. Ability to work with diverse populations.
4. Knowledge of the practices and methods of recreational programming.
5. Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing with a variety of audiences and groups.
6. Ability to handle a variety of assignments under moderate supervision within standard operating procedures.
7. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships and deal tactfully with internal and external customers, coworkers and partnering agencies.

Physical Demands & Working Conditions:

Work is performed in the office and in the field. Headaches, eyestrain, and other related occupational hazards reflect the most common potential for injury in the office. Work is moderate duty with ability to lift, carry or push up to 40 pounds. Exposure to weather conditions, insects, animals and to angry, hostile or uncooperative persons may occur.

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

Requirements are representative of minimum levels of knowledge, skills, and experience required. To perform this job successfully, the employee must possess the abilities and aptitudes to perform each duty proficiently. This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, and is subject to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and requirements of the position change.

EEO/ADAAA

January 2026

The City of Fridley will not discriminate against or harass any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, creed, religion, sex, national origin, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, disability, age, or sexual orientation.