Parks Intern, Transportation and Natural Resources

Join Travis' County Parks Division as an intern and gain hands-on experience shaping projects that impact our community. In this internship, you will support the Parks team and learn directly from professionals in the field. This internship provides a unique opportunity to develop technical expertise, enhance leadership skills, and gain firsthand experience on how County programs contribute to improving the quality of life for residents.

Common degree plans eligible for Parks Internship (majors and/or minors):

• Parks and Recreation Admin
• Environmental Science
• Sustainability studies
• Natural Resource Management
• Wildlife Biology
• Environmental Economics

Responsibilities:

The Parks Intern will gain hands-on experience supporting the Parks Division while contributing to projects and initiatives that enhance community services and operations. Interns are expected to be dependable, engaged, and proactive in their learning by asking thoughtful questions, meeting deadlines, and actively participating in assigned activities.

Responsibilities may include, but are not limited to:

• Supporting Parks Division staff with daily parks operations, maintenance, and administrative tasks.
• Assisting with the preparation, organization, and submission of purchase requisition forms (PRFs) and related documentation.
• Participating in park site visits and field observations.
• Conducting research, collecting data, and assisting with analysis to support departmental projects.
• Assisting with project coordination, communication efforts, and special initiatives.
• Attending staff meetings, trainings, and professional development opportunities.
• Completing an individual or team project that aligns with the intern's academic interests and career goals while providing value to the Parks Division.

Qualifications:

Education and Experience

• Currently enrolled in an accredited college or university and have completed at least 30 credit hours.
• Pursuing a degree in Parks and Recreation Management, Environmental Studies, Natural Resources, or a related field.
• Demonstrated interest in parks, recreation, community engagement, environmental stewardship, or local government operations.
   

Licenses, Registrations, Certifications, or Special Requirements

This position requires a valid Texas Driver’s License and the ability to work on-site at our Downtown Austin office (days to be determined).

Skill in: 

• Gathering, interpreting, and summarizing technical information
• Problem-solving and decision-making
• Verbal and written communication
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) for reports and presentations

Ability to: 

• Manage time well, perform, and prioritize multiple tasks
• Meet deadlines and produce projects in a timely manner while managing multiple projects simultaneously
• Work across various teams
• Research, compile, analyze, and interpret products and reports
• Active listening and openness to feedback
• Willingness to support colleagues on shared projects
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with stakeholders 
• Able to attend Leadership Training
   

Benefits:

• Practical experience in park operations
• Professional mentorship and networking opportunities
• Contribution to meaningful projects that benefit the community